Busy Bees, the UK’s leading provider of early years childcare, has joined forces with digital health app, Peppy, to create an inclusive workplace culture.

The nursery group is the first childcare provider to partner with Peppy which supports employees through critical life transitions and health journeys, including fertility, menopause, women’s and men’s health and having a baby.

The service will be available to over 9,000 employees and their family members and launches today on World Menopause Day (Tuesday 18 October). Colleagues will initially have access to menopause support from Peppy, which offers practical and emotional support for people going through their menopause journey, delivered by real human health experts. Colleagues will also have access to video consultations, on-demand videos, audios, and evidence-based articles. Through the app, users can join a community of people who are experiencing similar life challenges.

Charlotte Hutchings, Chief People Officer at Busy Bees, said: “We are delighted to be working with Peppy and putting our people first. Wellbeing and mental health are huge topics for any business right now and we are passionate about supporting our employees through their health journeys.

“94 per cent of our workforce are female, and therefore it’s essential that we tailor our benefits proposition to support and empower women in the workplace. We are committed to championing women at work and creating an environment where they can consider extending their careers. This platform provides our female employees with the right guidance and specialist support in an inclusive and safe environment.”

Kathy Abernethy, Director of Menopause Services, Peppy said: “Women of menopausal age make up the fastest-growing demographic of the UK workforce, and yet two thirds say menopause symptoms have a negative impact on their work. In fact, 1 in 4 women of menopausal age consider leaving employment due to symptoms, and 1 in 10 actually do. This is a problem employers can’t afford to ignore if they are to offer a truly inclusive support programme for all staff.

“We’re thrilled that Busy Bees is working with Peppy to support this important demographic. Busy Bees is taking a positive step towards better supporting its people, and we look forward to helping them create a trustworthy and supportive environment through Peppy.”

To find out more about Busy Bees Nurseries, please visit www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk