At the GMB’s annual conference in Bournemouth, it was pointed out that several countries, including Japan, Taiwan, and Indonesia, have already introduced paid menstrual leave policies
Workers should be granted paid menstrual leave to combat absenteeism, reduced productivity, stress and discomfort, a union has suggested.
At the GMB’s annual conference in Bournemouth, it was noted that several countries, including Japan, Taiwan, and Indonesia, have already introduced paid menstrual leave policies. GMB delegate Charmaine Weston-Porter addressed the conference, said: “Menstruation is a natural and unavoidable biological process that affects approximately half of the population.”
“Despite this, the stigma surrounding menstruation persists, and many women feel ashamed or embarrassed to discuss their menstrual health needs with their employers. This can lead to absenteeism, reduced productivity and increased stress and discomfort for women in the workplace.”
“Paid menstrual leave would help to address these issues by acknowledging menstruation as a legitimate health concern and allowing women to take time off work without fear of financial penalty. This would enable women to manage their menstrual symptoms more effectively and reduce the impact of menstruation on their work and personal lives.”
“By taking this step, the UK would be a leader in the fight for gender equality and women’s health rights.”
The conference agreed to advocate for paid menstrual leave, asserting it would recognise that menstruation was a legitimate health concern and permit women to take time off work without fear of financial penalty.
