// Boots confirms it will cover the cost of its team members’ prescriptions for Hormone Replacement Treatment
// The retailer said around 8,600 team members could currently access the scheme
Boots will cover the cost of its team members’ prescriptions for Hormone Replacement Treatment from April in a bid to have an inclusive and open workplace culture.
With women accounting for 80% of the health and beauty retailer’s UK staff, around 8,600 team members could currently access menopause treatment.
The initiative comes at a time when, despite 51% of the overall UK workforce expected to
experience the menopause, its symptoms are too often overlooked and ignored, and the subject is still considered ‘taboo’.
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Research also revealed that symptoms such as hot flushes, fatigue, and low moods can affect home life and relationships, as well as careers, to the extent that some women leave the employment market altogether because they don’t get the support they need.
Boots HR director Ben Horner said: “I am delighted to announce that Boots is breaking down the barriers to accessing HRT medication and that we will offer this significant support option to team members who may be experiencing menopausal symptoms. Women make up the majority of our Boots workforce, and we are focused on offering the support that will work best for them as they navigate this important life transition and other health concerns.”
Boots has also introduced a series of initiatives and support packages aimed at breaking down barriers, raising awareness and supporting team members experiencing the menopause.
These include menopause at work guidance, counselling sessions and access to “My Menopause Centre” through the Boots Health Hub.
The retailer also offers access to a menopause network through The Women of Walgreens Boots Alliance UK Business Support Group.
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