CD Projekt Red has announced a new policy offering menstrual leave to its employees. The Polish video game developer behind Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher series announced the policy via Twitter on March 30th. According to Ola Sondej, a representative from the company, the policy will start from April 1st and will be fully paid. It enables employees to take as much time off as they need, from a few hours to several days to deal with menstrual-related pain.
Rationale behind the new policy
The policy follows in the footsteps of the company’s sister company, GOG, which implemented this policy last year. A post on the CD Projekt Red Twitter account said that the initiative was “about inclusivity and fostering a supportive workplace.” The new policy will not only provide employees with pain relief but will also help create an inclusive work environment.
Goal of the new policy
Sondej says the policy would help create an environment where menstruating team members feel more comfortable and supported in reaching their potential. “I think the biggest impact does not stem from the fact that you can take a day off when you feel physically unwell, it stems from the fact that you work at a place that actually notices that this issue exists. It does make me feel more confident,” added Sondej.
Positive Impact of the policy
CD Projekt Red employees who don’t menstruate have shown support for the new policy. According to Sondej, the response has been positive and she has felt supported and encouraged by her fellow team members. The policy change showcases the company’s commitment to promoting diversity and creating an inclusive work environment.
Online reaction
The online reaction to this news has been positively overwhelming, and the company’s Twitter account has been overflowing with support from Twitter users around the world. Many have praised the CD Projekt Red for introducing such a progressive policy that shows how businesses can prioritize their employees’ health and wellbeing.
CD Projekt Red and employee well-being
The Polish game developer has recently taken a more employee-friendly stance following criticism last year. Studio head Adam Badowski had to defend the studio and its mandatory crunch period ahead of the Cyberpunk 2077 release. However, the company has made strides to improve employee well-being by promising not to use crunch practices in the development of The Witcher 4 and now implementing the inclusive policy of menstrual leave.
Response by employees
Ola Sondej, who joined CD Projekt Red late last year, said the company has provided her with all the necessary facilities and tools she needs to function exceptionally well in the workplace. She said the company offers various perks such as psychological help, wellbeing seminars, and dog-friendly offices, and that employees feel at home and can freely speak up.
Final thoughts
The introduction of menstrual leave across an increasing number of employers reflects a more inclusive approach to the workplace. This new policy by CD Projekt Red offers a supportive and accommodating environment to its staff during an often-challenging time. With more businesses prioritizing their employee’s well-being, it is hoped more companies will follow this progressive path of inclusiveness.
