[Fran]

Hi everyone,

Today’s power hour will be starting at 11am and we will be focusing on how to support employees and colleagues who are trying to conceive or having fertility treatment at Christmas time. Please post your questions in this thread and we will be on hand to answer them throughout the session.
You can also refer to our ‘How to’ thread if you would like more information about how to use the power hour page and sessions.
See you at 11am!

Fran

[Fran]

Hi everyone, we are now live for today’s power hour! Please post your questions here and we will be om hand to reply and provide advice and guidance on supporting your employees and colleagues who are facing fertility challenges at Christmas time.

[Fran]

We have our first question of the session:

Why is Christmas time more difficult for people who are trying to have a family and what can we do to help at work?

[Fran]

This is a very good question – Christmas can be particularly difficult as there are usually more social events and gatherings where there might be more children around and more opportunities for family and friends to ask about family building. This is often well meaning, but for those who are having fertility problems it can be quite difficult. Even in the media there is a lot of focus on children and families around this time, so for someone who is longing to have a family of their own – they may find this period quite challenging.

You can be more supportive in the workplace by ensuring that there is an understanding and safe and quiet spaces for employees and colleagues to take some time out if they are feeling overwhelmed. Also make social events and parties optional or allow for daytime events too so colleagues and employees do not feel that they have to explain why they aren’t drinking. Giving people the time and space to talk and share can really make a difference.

[Fran]

We have another question.

How can we as managers approach the topic sensitively – without coming across as nosey or intrusive?

[Fran]

Another great question – In my experience, I have found that when managers and employers simply ask ‘how are you doing’ this can really make a difference to someone and they are more likely to open up about the issues they are facing and to talk about their fertility struggles.

So treat conversations with as much openness as you can and invite the employee to share how they are feeling but always make sure its a confidential and private conversation and let them know that too – they will then feel safer opening up.

Maybe asking if there is anything you can do to support them at this time will also help them to know that they are supported at work.

[Fran]

Is it best to tell staff to take time off at Christmas if they are having fertility treatment?

[Fran]

Although lots of people do have fertility treatment, the experience is very individualised and everyone may experience things differently. The best thing to do would be to ask the employee about what might work best for them. Some people may appreciate flexible working or remote working at this time, whilst others may feel that being in work and focussing is a good way to help them to manage their journey. Ideally, we shouldn’t just put things in place for certain times of the year – we need to ensure that we have the support and policies in place all year round to ensure that everyone is able to access the support packages offered when they need them. There really isn’t a one size fits all, so ask people what might work best for them at this time and you will find that those employees will also help to shape and future policies or plans for fertility in the workplace.

[Fran]

Should we change the way we do office Christmas events and parties?

[Fran]

I think the key thing here is to make it optional but to also provide some non alcoholic activities or options too. So maybe look at a lunchtime event as well as an evening event or make sure that if it is an evening event, there is the opportunity for people to sit down and chat and have non alcoholic options. Try not to assume what people want and make it optional – if someone doesn’t feel up to it then show that its okay and you understand. Have clear messaging to all staff to let them know that its okay if people may be going through events that means they don’t feel like celebrating or being festive.

[Fran]

Are there any specific resources we can provide to employees that may help at this time of year?

[Fran]

Signposting is a great way to support employees, and this can include sharing internal wellbeing articles, any EAP links, fertility charity information, or information on managing stress and anxiety. You can also direct your employees to our community forum and our information hub for support and advice. Sometimes, just providing resources can be really powerful as your employees will know that you are invested in them.

[Fran]

Do we have any further questions? We have just under 10 minutes left so If you do have any questions or points to discuss – please post them to us.

[Fran]

Thank you for all of the questions today. Please look out for future power hours and events to help support your employees and colleagues with their reproductive health in the workplace.

Take care,

Fran

[Author]

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