Timpson praised for backing menopausal employees

James Timpson, CEO of Timpson has offered every employee the opportunity to claim back any prescription charges for hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

The announcement was first made on Twitter by Mr Timpson on World Menopause day.

Some 1.5 million people in England aged over 50 are going through the menopause, with around 25% of those suffering severe symptoms.

Hormonal changes can often lead to confusion and anxiety which can be misdiagnosed as depression.

Charges cost around £9 per prescription which can cost some women upwards of £100 a year.

Over 10% of the Timpson workforce are former prisoners, the employer is widely known for progressive hiring practices, including offering mental health support for workers and free holiday homes to those volunteering to foster.

Labour MP Carolyn Harris has been raising hope that prescription charges for HRT could be scrapped and she is trying to persuade Members of Parliament to back her private members bill.

However it is likely the measures would need support from the Government to become law.