Senedd backs staff with endometriosis support plan
The Senedd has become the latest organisation to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, pledging to improve support for staff affected by the condition.
Run by the charity Endometriosis UK, the scheme is designed to help workplaces recognise and support the needs of employees living with endometriosis – a condition affecting one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth.
Endometriosis can cause a wide range of symptoms, including chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, bowel and bladder discomfort, and fatigue. It often impacts both physical and mental health and may be experienced from puberty through to menopause and beyond. Despite its prevalence, people in Wales face the longest diagnosis time in the UK, averaging nearly ten years.
As part of the scheme, the Senedd Commission – the body that supports the function of the Welsh Parliament – has appointed Endometriosis Champions, who will receive training from Endometriosis UK to provide support and information for staff.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, said:
“I’m delighted to welcome the Senedd to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
“By showing its team that they are valued and can expect support and reasonable adjustments to help those with endometriosis and menstrual conditions succeed at work, they will be increasing engagement across the whole of their workforce, ultimately making the organisation more successful.”
Beth Hales, who works as a Deputy Clerk for the parliament’s committees and was diagnosed with endometriosis in 2015, is one of the Endometriosis Champions at the Senedd.
She said:
“I’m delighted that the Senedd has signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme. This will help people across the organisation to better understand and support colleagues with endometriosis, as well as break down taboos about menstrual health.
“Endometriosis is relentless and my daughters are growing up seeing first-hand the pain it causes, but they can also see that I’m able to live with the condition whilst working. This is because of the Senedd’s commitment to supporting staff with chronic illnesses such as endometriosis.”
Endometriosis UK is the UK’s leading charity supporting those affected by the condition. In addition to offering information and support services, it campaigns to reduce diagnosis times and improve treatment and awareness.
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb is found elsewhere in the body. It can respond to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle, causing inflammation, pain, and scarring. It is most commonly found in the pelvis and may affect the ovaries, bowel, or bladder. In some cases, it can also appear in other parts of the body, such as the chest.
“Endometriosis is relentless and my daughters are growing up seeing first-hand the pain it causes, but they can also see that I’m able to live with the condition whilst working. This is because of the Senedd’s commitment to supporting staff with chronic illnesses such as endometriosis,” said Beth Hales.
More details about the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme are available at: endometriosis-uk.org/endometriosis-friendly-employer-scheme.
