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AnalogFolk Introduces Open-Source Menstruation (Period) Policy

27/04/2023
Advertising Agency
London, UK
119
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Policy includes one full day of paid leave each month where needed

AnalogFolk the global, independent digital creative agency whose North Star is to be an impactful agent of change for people, brands, and society, has announced the introduction of an open-source period policy to provide support and flexibility to its employees during menstruation.

Recognising the impact on the physical and mental well-being of individuals managing their menstrual cycle, AnalogFolk's period policy includes one full day of paid leave each month where needed, without affecting an employee's holiday or sick leave entitlement; provides free period products including tampons, pads, and hot water bottles; a private space in the office to stretch; and no expectation to work if unwell due to menstrual symptoms.

Research shows that many people experience stigma and shame surrounding periods. AnalogFolk’s policy has been written with the agency’s DE&I partner and chair of its North Star council. It uses encouraging terminology that is inclusive and respectful, promoting an environment where individuals feel safe and supported.

Menstrual pain is a leading cause of absenteeism among women in the UK, with as many as one in five women missing work or school due to period pain. A study published in the BMJ Open medical journal, the largest of its kind, found that when women do call in sick because of period pain, only one in five tell their employer or school the real reason for their absence. Additionally, a survey by the global research firm YouGov found that 37% of women in the UK who experience period pain said that it has negatively affected their work productivity.

Anna-Louise Gladwell, managing director, AnalogFolk says, “The statistics underscore the importance of providing support and flexibility for employees who experience menstrual symptoms. We believe this, along with normalising conversations about periods, is long overdue. We also recognise the desire for discretion, and that menstrual cycles are unique for everyone. We are encouraging other companies to consider implementing similar policies to create more inclusive and supportive work environments - we’ve made our period policy open-source so other companies can adopt or adapt it.”

AnalogFolk are partnering with Hey Girls, a 'buy-one', 'donate-one' social enterprise that creates plant-powered period products to fund the fight to end period poverty in the UK. All sanitary products provided in AnalogFolk’s Amsterdam office will be supplied by Yoni, who create sustainable period products.

The period policy is part of a wider set of policies AnalogFolk Group (AFG) has developed and implemented across its network since last year to create a more equitable workplace for its employees. Some of these include a Menopause policy; Divorce and Separation policy; Family Forming policy; and Temporary ‘Working from Anywhere’ policy.

Anna-Louise Gladwell continues, “Our policies serve as a reminder that actions, not just words, are necessary for progress. We uphold our values by building policies into our business that promote diversity, inclusion, and well-being and by creating work with our clients that challenges norms and creates positive change for all. Our policies are defined by the areas we know that our Folk need support and by being an employer that is understanding and empathetic.”

AnalogFolk has designed a bold set of posters to raise awareness and remind its employees of the period policy in a more innovative and impactful way.

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