AnalogFolk Shakes Up Industry with ‘Open-Source’ Period Policy: Paid Leave and Free Products for Menstruating Staff
1 year ago
Creative agency AnalogFolk is starting a bold conversation by introducing a new ‘open-source’ period policy, aimed to serve as an example for other companies in the industry.
- Creative agency AnalogFolk is starting a bold conversation by introducing a new ‘open-source’ period policy, aimed to serve as an example for other companies in the industry.
- This policy includes paid leave and free menstrual products, demonstrating the company’s commitment to support the well-being of its menstruating employees.
For women, the monthly ordeal often brings discomfort, pain, and can even impact mental health. Despite this, periods are often kept under wraps, causing embarrassment and stress in the workplace. AnalogFolk wants to change this, recognizing that periods can severely affect productivity and should not be a source of shame.
“Periods are a big deal. They can cause painful cramps, bloating, migraines, and severe fatigue,” said Anna-Louise Gladwell, Managing Director of AnalogFolk. “Many people feel like they have to suffer in silence, struggling through the workday while dealing with pain and discomfort.”
AnalogFolk’s new period policy includes a full day of paid leave each month, if needed, and it won’t affect an employee’s holiday or sick leave. The company will also provide free period products, a private space to stretch, and won’t expect employees to work if they are unwell due to menstrual symptoms.
The policy is not just about practical support but also about building a culture where individuals can talk about periods openly and without shame. The company aims to change the stigma around periods and wants to encourage colleagues to support each other.
“We hope our open-source period policy will be adopted or adapted by other companies. It’s not about virtue signaling, but about recognizing the real impact periods can have on people’s lives,” added Gladwell. AnalogFolk’s other policies include support for menopause, divorce and separation, family forming, and temporary remote working, showing their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and well-being. They aim to be an impactful agent of change, not just for their clients, but also for their employees.
We hope our open-source period policy will be adopted or adapted by other companies. It’s not about virtue signaling, but about recognizing the real impact periods can have on people’s lives
Anna-Louise Gladwell, Managing Director of AnalogFolk
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