Skincare firm introduces hormone holidays for staff

A skincare business based in Telford is changing how it supports staff by introducing unlimited leave for hormonal health. Heaven Skincare, which holds a Royal Warrant, has launched the initiative as 2026 gets underway.

The scheme, named Hormone Holidays, allows employees to take time off for symptoms related to menopause, periods, and conditions like endometriosis. It comes as a recent petition for the government to introduce menstrual leave reached more than 76,000 signatures.

Employees at the firm can take the time they need without being asked for medical evidence or specific details about their symptoms. The policy aims to remove the stigma often associated with hormonal health in the workplace.

Deborah Mitchell said: “As female who has just turned 60, I’ve experienced many hormonal challenges and shifts in my life. I’ve also lived my life in the workplace and have seen and experienced first-hand isolating and dismissive these conversations can be for women, seeing talented colleagues struggle in silence, often not being taken seriously.”

She added: “Despite this kind of leave not being legally mandatory, I’m using my common sense and empathy as a human. I don’t understand why anybody wouldn’t want to support, not just staff, but real people in such a way. When it comes to government policy, there’s a long way to go and more they need to do.”

The business already provides a range of support for its staff, including hot water bottles, comfort blankets, and sanitary products. It also offers flexible working for those who prefer to work from home during certain times of the month.

Director Ella Cox said: “Understanding the different stages of the menstrual cycle—particularly for those who have not yet reached menopause—is something I believe should be spoken about more openly. Traditionally, it has been a taboo subject, but when it isn’t acknowledged within office environments, it can make these experiences harder to navigate. Creating a supportive environment for our employees is incredibly important to me; when people feel cared for and valued, they are able to do their best work.”

The firm hopes that by introducing the policy, other businesses will be encouraged to take hormonal health more seriously.

Deborah Mitchell said: “Hormonal symptoms don’t reset in January, and they don’t disappear because someone is at work. This policy recognises that reality. We are starting the year with empathy and setting”