Diageo has launched a new support package for UK employees undergoing fertility treatment.
The drinks company’s new policies and practices includes offering these members of staff additional paid leave, as well as Fertility Support Guidelines which aim to raise awareness of related issues and their affect on people’s mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing.
Caroline Rhodes, global inclusion and diversity director at Diageo, said: “Ensuring that our people feel supported to bring their whole selves to work is a tenet that underpins our business. So many people are directly impacted by fertility issues and every person’s experience is unique.
“These guidelines will provide greater support, understanding, and raise awareness on fertility matters for all of our people, while most importantly helping those directly impacted.”
The business has joined forces with educational training provider Fertility Matters at Work, which supports organisations that want to become more fertility friendly. The provider will help Diageo ensure the guidelines are used as an educational tool, giving staff advice on how to help colleagues experiencing related issues.
Diageo is also offering the support for partners of those undergoing fertility treatments, as well as intended parents. Although launching in the UK, it intends to roll out the guidelines in more markets in the next 12 months.
Rhodes added: “I want to personally thank our employees who have partnered with us on these guidelines, sharing their own lived experiences with such candour and honesty, helping us to consider the key needs of individuals during what can be a highly emotional and stressful journey.”
Natalie Silverman, co-founder of Fertility Matters at Work, added: “It’s great to see companies like Diageo recognise that the journey to building a family isn’t always linear, and for some, it can be physically and emotionally challenging. We’re confident that participating in our Fertility Friendly training and working toward our accreditation will help bring to life and support the new Fertility support guidelines at Diageo.”
