Blue Light Card Foundation, Charnwood Edge, Syston Road, Cossington, Leicester LE7 4UZ
The Blue Light Card Foundation is a registered charity within England and Wales. Charity No. 1 1 9 8 4 9 2
In this section, we share guidance and support to help you navigate women’s health topics at work — from fertility and motherhood to mental health and creating a more understanding workplace.
This guide offers practical advice on how to navigate conversations about fertility treatments, like IVF, in the workplace. It provides clear steps to help you feel more confident when discussing your needs with your employer or manager.
Understanding how IVF can impact work and supporting those experiencing it
Navigating work as a Blue Light member while dealing with the physical and mental implications of fertility treatment can feel somewhat like a balancing act. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact that IVF can have at work and how you can help to support those around you.
When we think of our Blue Light team members, we may think of their bravery, resilience, dedication or passion for their role. But, behind the scenes, some of your colleagues may be facing a different kind of battle.
According to Fertility Network UK, 1 in 6 people in the UK face fertility issues. Many of those affected will then embark on a roller coaster journey through treatment, which can have a profound impact on their personal life, career and mental health. Yet, in many workplaces, fertility remains a taboo subject which is tiptoed around.
Balancing the demands of a high-pressured role with the complexities of fertility treatments can be an overwhelming experience. In this blog, we’ll explore the impact that IVF can have at work and discuss the importance of a workplace culture that is understanding and accommodating.
The impact
Navigating work while dealing with the physical and mental implications of fertility treatment can feel somewhat like a balancing act. A 2022 survey by Fertility Network UK into the emotional, financial and career impact of undergoing fertility treatment, found that:
But how does undergoing treatment actually affect us at work?
IVF requires a series of medical procedures and appointments; these may often clash with working hours and present the need for time off or flexible working. The appointments can be time consuming and unpredictable with a range of physical and mental side effects which may require recovery time or impact our performance at work.
This time off may lead people to compensating for their time off by working extra hours, which could potentially result in burnout. If time off isn’t compensated, it can cause further strain on finances or personal and professional relationships. The outcome of treatment is also uncertain; this can take an emotional toll as making decisions about the future becomes difficult.
How can I support somebody undergoing fertility treatment?
Educate and communicate
It may feel easier to avoid conversations surrounding fertility and treatments in fear of saying the wrong thing. But by educating yourself and talking about the topic, it will help to normalise it and make it less of a taboo subject. Knowing that you are understanding and non-judgemental will help your team members to feel more comfortable and supported through their journey.
Be mindful and patient
Remember that everyone’s journey will be different. Your team member may not feel comfortable talking about what they are going through, but simply knowing that you are there for them will go a long way.
Be flexible
When having open discussions, listen to what would help and try your best to help make those changes possible. This could be swapping shifts where you can or finding a way to reduce some of their responsibilities.
Reassure
When a team member or colleague approaches you about their fertility treatment, it’s okay if you don’t have all the answers straight away but try to reassure them as much as possible. They are most likely feeling quite worried and unsure about the future, particularly regarding how their career will be impacted, so reminding them that they are still in control and that their health and wellbeing is the priority will make a huge difference.
Ultimately, by trying our best to understand accommodate and respect our team members as they navigate their own fertility journey, we can help them to feel more supported and confident going forwards. For further resources and information, click here.
How to be mindful of your language when discussing Women’s Health
In this blog, we’ll explore five tops tips for approaching conversations surroundings Women’s Health to ensure that your language is inclusive, sensitive and mindful.
‘Women’s Health’ is a broad blanket term which is often used when discussing anything which feels a bit taboo or “too personal” to speak of frankly. When you think of what ‘Women’s Health’ encompasses you may think of periods, pregnancy or anything gynaecological, but in reality, it covers so much more than that.
Take a moment before you read this article to pause and consider what Women’s Health means to you. It may change day to day, week to week but it’s important you recognise what “health” means to you as a woman.
This can include, but is certainly not limited to menstruation, ovulation, UTIs, smear tests, endometriosis, PCOS, ovarian cancer, breast health, physical and mental health, nutrition, sleep, contraception, sexual health and more.
Ultimately, ‘Women’s Health’ is so general, universal and all-embracing, that it’s almost unbelievable that it can all be summed up in one term. Therefore, it’s no wonder we might feel a bit lost when it comes to what language to use when discussing women’s health. We may even be avoiding talking openly about aspects of women’s health in fear of saying the “wrong thing”.
This blog aims to provide some guidance on using inclusive and sensitive language in conversations about women’s health within the blue light community.
Respectful and neutral terminology
Try to use respectful and neutral terminology when discussing anatomy or other aspects of women’s health rather than slang or colloquial terms. For example, there’s no need to treat a menstrual cycle as though it’s a movie villain that can’t be named. Consider using terms such as ‘period’ or ‘cycle’ instead of ominously referring to “that time of the month”. Saying things as they are, rather than tiptoeing around them, will help to remove the taboo and normalise the discussion.
Humanise language
Whilst using respectful and neutral terminology, also try to make your language person centred. Focus on the individual by prioritising their feelings and experiences rather than reducing them to a health condition or stereotype.
Be inclusive and sensitive
Try to take context into consideration during conversations and always speak with sensitivity to avoid making presumptions about someone’s health. Even if you’re unaware of somebody’s experiences, it’s best to use terms that aren’t likely to exclude or make people feel alienate. For example, you could opt for inclusive terms such as ‘reproductive health’ or ‘sexual health’ and avoid making jokes about serious topics, regardless of the people you are with.
Be understanding and respect privacy
It’s great to participate in open conversations and to support those around you with their experiences but remember to respect their individual’s privacy and how much they want to share. Regularly check in with people around you to see how they are and let them lead the conversation. Trying to listen and understand the complexities of women’s health will help to create safe spaces away from any judgement.
It’s okay to get it wrong sometimes
Fear of saying the wrong thing shouldn’t scare us into not speaking about women’s health. It’s okay to make a mistake, acknowledge it and correct yourself to learn and understand. Try to educate yourself about different aspects of women’s health so that you can make small, meaningful and impactful changes to your language going forwards.
To refer back to these tips, or to help those around you to be more mindful about their language when discussing Women’s Heath, download the poster below.
Mum Guilt: Balancing work and motherhood
Balancing a Blue Light work or volunteering role with motherhood can be difficult. Here, we explore some mindful and practical tips to help you navigate working mum guilt and get the most out of family life.
Managing and overcoming working mum guilt can be extremely challenging, particularly as a Blue Light worker or volunteer. Due to the high-pressure nature of your role, which may involve unsocial working hours, unpredictable shift patterns and stressful situations, you may feel that you’re not home as much as some other parents, or you may feel as though when you are home, you are tired, or a bit burnt out.
In this blog, we’ll explore some mindful and practical tips to help you manage working mum guilt and find a balance which works for you and your family.
Self-compassion over comparison
Firstly, try to acknowledge your feelings and recognise that what you’re experiencing is completely normal. In fact, in 2022 the Office of National Statistics found that just under three quarters (73%) of mothers with children aged 0-14 were in work, and 41% of those mothers were working full time. While it’s sometimes easy to compare ourselves to others, it’s important to try and remember that all family structures and dynamics are different. Instead of focusing on the feelings of guilt, try to be kind to yourself and focus on the positive aspects of your role as a parent and the positive impact of your work. For example, while being a fundamental front-line worker, you are also setting a positive example and being a role model for your children.
Quality over quantity
Try to focus on the quality of the time that you spend with your family rather than the amount of time. Prioritise making the most of the time you have together by creating meaningful and positive memories. If you’re unsure on what quality time might look like for your family, take a look at the Parent Zone by the Centre of Emotional Health for resources to support you in getting the best from family life.
Open communication
Communicating openly with your family about your schedule and demands of your role will help them to understand the challenges you face. However, communication is most effective when it works both ways, so it may be helpful to ask your family about how they’re feeling and the challenges that they are facing too.
Additionally, the term “quality time” will mean something different to everybody. For some children, quality time might mean going to the park together, it might mean watching a film as a family, baking or reading before bed. Fostering open communication will help you to understand what it is your family values most so that you can prioritise it during your time off.
Set realistic routines
Try to establish realistic routines or set rituals with your family, even if they are simple, to help create a sense of stability and connection, despite your irregular working hours. For example, this could be a set bedtime routine for your child which they can stick to even when you’re not there. You could even record a short bedtime story or message for them for nights when you’re at work. Or, you could have a family games night which occurs one evening every week on a night that you’re not working.
Self-care and boundaries
Try to set some time aside for self-care to maintain your own wellbeing. Taking care of yourself and allowing yourself time to recharge will help you to maintain a positive mindset, allowing you to be more present and the best version of you when spending time with your family. This may require you to set boundaries between your personal and professional life, which might mean trying to leave work at work rather than bringing your worries and stressors home.
Finally, if you’re feelings of guilt are becoming overwhelming, you may want to consider seeking the support of a professional such as a therapist or counsellor. They can help by providing coping strategies and guidance to help you work through and navigate your emotions.
This resource highlights why attending cervical screening appointments is so important, the challenges Blue Light community members might face, and offers guidance on how to approach conversations about screenings at work.
PANDAS Perinatal Mental Health Toolkit for Employers
Created by Dr Krystal Wilkinson and colleagues, this practical toolkit is designed to support employers in recognising and responding to perinatal mental health (PMI) within the workplace. Whether part of your wellbeing programme or HR policy, it offers clear guidance to help you create a more informed and compassionate environment for new and expectant parents.
What’s inside the toolkit:
A clear overview of perinatal mental health conditions, including lesser-known types
How work factors can both hinder and help those affected
Common barriers to disclosure and how to create a safer space for conversations
Employer responsibilities and legal considerations
Actionable guidance, including wellbeing conversation prompts and return-to-work planning
Flowcharts for supporting both maternity and paternity/non-carrying partners
Evidence-based advice on creating a supportive, inclusive workplace
This is more than a policy resource — it’s a step towards building a culture where parents feel seen, supported, and able to thrive during and after the perinatal period.
New Parents Perinatal Mental Health Toolkit
How to Talk About Miscarriage and Baby Loss at Work
Miscarriage and baby loss are heartbreaking experiences, and sadly, they are more common than many realise. Mental health struggles after a loss can affect both the person who was pregnant and their partner and these feelings can last a long time.
When someone you work with goes through this, knowing how to offer support can make a big difference. Here’s what you need to know:
People may feel heartbroken, isolated, angry, or overwhelmed.
Grief doesn’t follow a straight line — feelings can come and go for months or even years.
Seeing pregnant people, babies, or young children can be really tough, especially at work.
Some people might want to keep busy and stay at work, while others may need time off.
It’s okay if you don’t know the perfect words. Here are some simple things that can help:
“I’m very sorry you have lost your baby.”
“This must be really difficult for you.”
“I don’t know what to say, but I’m here for you.”
Try to avoid saying things like “You can always have another” or “It was meant to be” even if you mean well, these comments can feel painful and dismissive.
Feeling understood and supported at work can ease the emotional load after a loss. A friendly conversation, a little flexibility, or just letting someone know they aren’t alone can make a huge difference.
Create a pregnancy loss policy that allows for time off.
Offer paid miscarriage or baby loss leave (for partners too).
Train managers to handle these conversations with care.
Offer phased returns to work and regular wellbeing check-ins.
Set up peer support groups or staff networks.
Grief doesn’t have a timeline some days will be harder than others. Compassion, understanding, and small changes in the workplace can make a huge difference to someone going through one of the toughest times of their life.
Maternal Mental Health: What to Do If You or Someone You Know Is Unwell
Experiencing mental health challenges during or after pregnancy is more common than many realize. Whether it’s a resurgence of a previous condition or a new experience, it’s crucial to recognize the signs and seek support.
The Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA) is a UK-based charity and network comprising over 130 organizations, clinicians, and individuals with lived experience. Their mission is to ensure that all women and families affected by perinatal mental health problems have access to high-quality, compassionate care and support.
For guidance on recognizing symptoms and finding appropriate support, MMHA offers a comprehensive resource: What to Do If You or Someone You Know Is Unwell. This page provides information on:
Recognizing Warning Signs: Understanding symptoms that may indicate a perinatal mental health issue.
Seeking Support: Steps to take if you’re concerned about your mental health or that of someone else, including contacting healthcare professionals or helplines.
Additional Resources: Links to organizations and services that offer mental health support to new and expectant parents.
Remember, you’re not alone, and help is available. Accessing the right support can make a significant difference in your journey toward well-being.
Blue Light Card Foundation, Charnwood Edge, Syston Road, Cossington, Leicester LE7 4UZ
The Blue Light Card Foundation is a registered charity within England and Wales. Charity No. 1 1 9 8 4 9 2
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