A new report from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) has called on employers to adopt formal policies supporting employees undergoing fertility treatments, warning that a lack of such measures could lead to the loss of valuable staff.
The survey, which interviewed 1,000 managers, revealed that only 19% of companies currently offer policies to assist employees through fertility treatments. Ann Francke, CEO of CMI, stressed the unpredictable and private nature of fertility challenges, noting that the strain employees face when balancing work with urgent medical appointments is often exacerbated by a lack of workplace support.
HR business partner Jane Bradshaw-Jones, from AdviserPlus, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how fertility struggles can create emotional and mental tolls that affect work performance. “Fertility treatment is one of the most stressful experiences someone can endure, and it inevitably spills over into their work life,” she explained. Employers who respond with empathy and understanding can have a profound impact on employee wellbeing during this difficult period.
The consequences of inadequate fertility support are evident. Research from Totaljobs and the Fawcett Society found that one in five employees resigned due to poor workplace support during fertility treatment, with a third considering leaving. Despite the fact that one in seven couples faces fertility issues, nearly 60% of those undergoing treatment choose to keep it a secret from their employers.
This secrecy often leads to employees using sick leave or unpaid time off for fertility appointments, with over 90% of them resorting to these categories. Bradshaw-Jones emphasized that infertility is a lonely experience, often compounded by the difficulty of discussing it openly. Employers have a significant opportunity to make a difference by normalizing conversations about infertility and offering support.
Training managers to handle sensitive topics, including providing flexibility for appointments, could create a more supportive work environment. Bradshaw-Jones highlighted that even small adjustments, like offering flexible working hours for fertility-related appointments, can have a significant positive impact.
The study’s findings have sparked calls for legislative action to ensure more consistent fertility support policies across workplaces. A workplace fertility campaign group has urged the UK government to introduce fertility-focused employment legislation, drawing inspiration from countries such as Malta, Korea, and Japan.
Sharon Martin of Fertility Network UK emphasized the importance of having a fertility policy, stating that it offers employees clarity about available support without requiring them to disclose personal details. Bradshaw-Jones further advocated for regular reviews of fertility policies to ensure they remain inclusive and relevant, warning that businesses risk losing valuable employees if they fail to adapt to these needs.
In today’s competitive job market, employees place increasing value on a company’s culture and its responsiveness to issues like infertility. Bradshaw-Jones stressed that simple changes, such as allowing remote work on treatment days, can help employees navigate the physical, emotional, and financial challenges of fertility treatments.
“Employers should be proactive and seek guidance from professionals to ensure their support policies are both appropriate and legally compliant,” she said. Martin Drake, CEO of Higher People, added that treating employees with compassion and offering practical support, like accommodating medical appointments, fosters a positive workplace culture.
Darren Hayman, managing director of Macmillan Davies, agreed, noting that businesses that fail to implement clear policies and emotional support risk losing talented HR professionals. “Employers who recognize and address the needs of their workforce not only enhance employee loyalty but also position themselves as leaders in creating inclusive workplace cultures,” he said.
With the competitive recruitment market in mind, it’s clear that employers must prioritize the well-being of their staff by offering the support necessary for navigating life’s challenges, including fertility treatment.
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