Fertility Awareness in the Workplace

Bespoke in-person or online webinar to each company

The Fertility Awareness in the workplace training will provide an understanding of the impact fertility challenges can have on employees, not only physically, but also emotionally and mentally. We’ll explore how the journey through fertility treatments, loss, or prolonged uncertainty can affect concentration, productivity, and overall wellbeing, often in ways that remain unseen but are profoundly felt.

Your team will also be guided through the hidden and underestimated cost to businesses when employees are navigating these challenges in silence or without adequate support. This includes not just absenteeism or reduced engagement, but also the risk of losing key team members and the broader implications for your company.

A key focus of the session will be on how to create a workplace environment that feels safe, supportive and inclusive for individuals and couples experiencing fertility difficulties. We will support your team with actionable steps to create a positive fertility culture.

We’ll provide practical guidance on reviewing and adapting workplace policies to ensure they are truly relevant to employees facing fertility issues. This includes policy considerations around leave, flexible working, time off for medical appointments and language that acknowledges and respects different pathways to parenthood.

We will also go through a clear overview of the IVF process which will help you and your team understand what this entails and how you can make small changes that will have a huge impact on your business. 69.5% of employees will take sick leave during this treatment as they feel unsupported. You can change that with small steps that will prevent you from incurring excessive costs due to recruitment and absence management.

Finally, we will address one of the most sensitive areas: communication. Attendees will learn how to confidently and compassionately approach conversations around fertility: what to say, what not to say, and how to listen. We’ll share conversation guidance and case studies to help so everyone will feel more prepared and less fearful of getting it wrong.

Frequently asked questions around Fertility Awareness in the Workplace

Who should attend the training?

Anyone who is involved in supporting employee wellbeing who wants to create a supportive and inclusive environment whilst reducing costs and retaining employees.

Is the training suitable for all industries?

Yes, the principles of the training are relevant to all industries. Fertility struggles impact employees in sectors.

This is a sensitive subject – will employees be comfortable discussing it in workplace?

The training is designed to create a safe, open and supportive environment.  The aim is that even if employees don’t want to talk about what is happening for them, they know that they are supported and their situation is understood.

Can this training be delivered virtually?

Yes, it can be delivered in-person or virtually.

If my business supports employees undergoing fertility treatment, won’t it cost me more money when they are having appointments?

Employees who are undergoing fertility treatment will still attend appointments whether they are supported or not.  We know that over 60% employees don’t feel comfortable disclosing this and will take sick leave instead.  By creating a safe, inclusive and flexible workplace, your can support employees and avoid sickness absence.