UK employers urged to adopt fertility policies or risk losing talented staff

Businesses failing to support employees undergoing fertility treatment risk high staff turnover and rising sick leave, according to the Chartered Management Institute (CMI).

One in seven couples now experience fertility challenges, NHS figures show, prompting calls for formal workplace policies that include flexible working hours, paid time off for treatment, and compassionate leave where necessary.

Ann Francke, CMI chief executive, warned: “The significant stresses of fertility treatment can lead to employees quitting or reducing their responsibilities if they feel their workplace offers no other choice. Without skilled management support, employers risk losing good people.”

A new survey of more than 1,000 managers revealed that just 19% of organisations have a formal fertility policy, despite nearly two-thirds of respondents considering such policies vital. Separate research indicates a lack of support for fertility treatment can prompt as many as one in five employees to resign.

Sharon Martin, interim chief executive at Fertility Network UK, which advises on employer policy, said: “A policy ensures immediate clarity on what help is available, even if employees choose not to disclose treatment details. It can outline specific leave allowances, flexible hours and direct staff to appropriate support charities.”

With the Workplace Fertility Campaign Group now pushing for legislative reform to grant paid time off for IVF appointments, many employers are seeking expert advice on drafting fertility policies. A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said plans to make flexible working a “genuine default” aim to help staff navigate challenges such as fertility treatment more easily.

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UK employers urged to adopt fertility policies or risk losing talented staff