Introduction to the Fertility Support Toolkit
Infertility is a medical condition which affects one in seven couples. In the UK, approximately three and a half million people suffer fertility challenges, with most being of working age.
Infertility can arise from a variety of causes and can affect anyone, regardless of gender. The investigations and treatments offered will vary based on individual circumstances and the underlying cause of infertility. There are, however, three main fertility treatments, including medical treatments, surgical procedures, and assisted conception (including intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF)).
Fertility treatments can have both physical, emotional and financial impacts. This can continue post treatment, whilst waiting to see if the procedure has worked and in cases where the treatment is unsuccessful.
Fertility Support at LSE
At LSE, we recognise that the fertility journey can be a difficult one, with significant impacts on staff wellbeing. Providing support in the workplace can have a positive and meaningful effect on anyone who is facing fertility challenges.
LSE is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and open culture, offering support to staff undergoing fertility investigations and treatments. Since every fertility journey is unique, it is recognised that the support that is required will vary from one person to another. It is also recognised that individuals with protected characteristics may face additional challenges in their fertility journey.
How to navigate the Fertility Support Toolkit
This toolkit has been developed to support staff and managers dealing with the impact of fertility challenges at work. The pages in this toolkit set out resources available to staff experiencing fertility issues.
Please see below an overview of the toolkit, which will help you find what is relevant to your needs:
- Guidance for managers
- Guidance for employees
- Fertility Pocket Guide, a quick reference guide for managers and staff
- Resources, providing additional internal and external support information
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), addressing common queries on fertility challenges and available support
- Case studies on a range of fertility scenarios that help to illustrate some of the ways in which individuals can be impacted, as well as the range of support available.
It's also important to be aware of how other School policies complement the resources provided in this toolkit. The Flexible Working Policy, in particular, sets out non-standard working patterns that can help staff balance their work with the logistical, emotional, and physical impacts of fertility investigations and treatments. If you're uncertain about which flexible working options are best for your situation or would like to find out a little more about what flexible working at LSE, the Flexible Working Toolkit is a valuable resource. The Blended Working Policy, and the principles of agility and flexibility that underpin it, can also be a helpful guide to the ways in which shorter-term work adjustments (such as temporary changes to start and/or finish times) can help staff to balance their work and outside commitments.
We hope that these pages serve as a helpful guide for both staff and managers. Should you require further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact your HR Partner or Adviser.