Howard Kennedy expands its people policies to cover pregnancy loss and fertility treatment

Howard Kennedy is pleased to announce the introduction of new and refreshed policies in support of employees affected by pregnancy loss and those seeking to undergo or undertaking fertility investigations or treatment. 

Coinciding with Baby Loss Awareness Week, the firm is introducing a new Pregnancy Loss policy designed to provide emotional and practical support to reflect the employee’s individual circumstances. The policy sees those affected by pregnancy loss provided with up to 10 days of paid leave. After that, the firm will offer further leave as required and flexible working options to allow colleagues to gradually transition back into work at their own pace. Information will also be provided for colleagues who wish to support their peers through these personal and challenging times.

In addition to this, Howard Kennedy has re-communicated its fertility leave policy internally to provide guidance for those wishing to undertake fertility treatment. While there is no statutory right to time off work in place, the firm supports employees on their fertility journey by offering paid time off for employees who are receiving or recovering from fertility treatment, and to those supporting a partner through it. They also offer flexible working and paid leave options for medical appointments. Additionally, if an employee is unwell as a result of fertility treatment, they will be entitled to take sickness absence leave.

Howard Kennedy understands the sensitive personal circumstances involved across both policies, and respects that some employees may not wish to discuss their circumstances with their manager.

Irena Molloy, Executive Director, at Howard Kennedy, said: "We hope that by introducing these as standalone policies, our people will feel understood and supported as they encounter these difficult and personal challenges.”  

The expanded policies follow the implementation of the firm’s new agile working policies last month, as the firm looks to ensure greater flexibility for its employees whilst ensuring productivity.