More and more women in the workplace are struggling with the stigmas that surround their gender. Women experience more health related issues during their lifetime, as this isn’t always taken seriously by workplaces, the local authorities, and the government. This is why it’s so important to take a stand and advocate for women’s health in the workplace now. If you’re looking to empower women in the workplace and put their health first, there are a number of different avenues you can explore. Here are just a handful of ideas to consider if you’re hoping to be an ally and stand up for those who aren’t always considered.
4 ideas for advocating women’s health in the workplace
1. Encourage them to speak out
When a woman experiences an uncomfortable or traumatic experience at work, it’s often hard for them to speak out to their male colleagues about the situation. This is why it’s so important to encourage women to have a voice. Many women who have experienced an accident at work would be fully entitled to representation from a personal injury attorney, but may have been too afraid to pursue legal help. By advocating for women and encouraging them to speak out about any previous incidents, you are allowing them to reclaim what is rightfully theirs and prevent the same thing from happening again in the future.
2. Consider women’s health and sickness policies
It’s well within your rights as a business owner to revisit your health and sickness policies so that it’s in line with women’s health needs. Females may require more time off due to menopause or menstrual related health issues, and it needs to be addressed without prejudice. Revisiting these policies will allow women to take the time off they need, so they don’t feel uncomfortable at work during these difficult phases of their life.
3. Remove Stigmas and Foster a Caring Environment
The culture in your workplace will truly set a precedence for how everyone feels when they’re in a group setting. Removing any stigmas, creating a caring environment and allowing all women to feel supported, no matter what they’re going through, will ultimately create a positive movement for your company. This will also encourage other women to apply for jobs, as your business will get a good reputation for providing a safe environment for everyone.
4. Provide Resources and Manager Training
When it comes to the wellbeing of women at work, it’s so important to facilitate training and encourage open discussions around specific subject matters. Pointing your managers towards resources and providing adequate training will widen everyone’s perspectives on each situation so that all women in the workplace feel well-represented.
As you can see, there are a number of ways in which you can stand up for women and support them whilst at work. Whether you’re encouraging them to speak up about their previous issues, or you’re opening up positive conversations about women’s health in the workplace to remove the stigma. It doesn’t matter whether you’re in a managerial position or not; there are so many different ways in which women can be supported at work in a positive and forward thinking way.
