Dental Protection, a not-for-profit, member-owned dental defence organisation, has been reaccredited as a Menopause Friendly Employer in recognition of its continued commitment to supporting members and colleagues experiencing menopause.
Established by women’s health advocacy group Henpicked in 2021, Menopause Friendly Accreditation sets standards across an organisation’s culture, policies, training, employee engagement and working environment.
Dental Protection, part of the Medical Protection Society (MPS), supports dental care professionals around the world, including through initiatives focused on members’ physical health and emotional wellbeing. It was the first dental defence organisation to achieve Menopause Friendly accreditation in 2023, following the introduction of initiatives including:
- A Women’s Health Network providing a safe space to discuss and normalise women’s health issues, including Q&A sessions led by in-house medics on managing menopause symptoms
- Dedicated Menopause Advocates who help ensure the experiences of women going through menopause are represented across the organisation, alongside menopause awareness training for senior leaders
Three years on, the reaccreditation recognises Dental Protection’s continued commitment to creating a workplace where people experiencing menopause can thrive.
Dental Protection has also advocated for improved support for women working in healthcare, calling for greater menopause training and support for healthcare professionals, as well as more flexible working arrangements to help manage symptoms. Members can also access an independent, confidential counselling service for those experiencing difficulties related to menopause at work.
The MPS Foundation, the research arm of MPS, is supporting a University of Exeter-led project examining the effectiveness of menopause support for healthcare professionals working in the NHS. The study’s findings were recently presented through a dance performance, “The Silent Transition”, at the Hall in Exeter.
“This reaccreditation is something we are incredibly proud of. At Dental Protection, we’re deeply committed to creating a workplace where people can thrive, and we recognise the importance of our colleagues feeling supported and valued,” said Amy Shah, chief people officer at MPS. “Through greater understanding, active allyship and a culture where people feel comfortable speaking openly, we can better support those experiencing menopause. By creating a stronger workplace for everyone, we strengthen the expertise, care and trust our members rely on when they need us most.”
“Congratulations to Dental Protection on achieving Menopause Friendly reaccreditation. Three years on, it’s great to see them continuing their commitment — keeping the conversation going through regular communications and shared stories, an active Menopause Advocate community and ongoing senior leadership support,” said Deborah Garlick, director and founder at Henpicked. “Reaccreditation is about sustaining change and continuing the work, and we’re delighted to recognise their achievement.”
