What motivated you to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme?
Menstrual health may feel awkward to discuss, but it shouldn't - you wouldn't hide a headache or a cold, for example. Ultimately, we must continue to encourage our people to feel confident to speak up and receive the support they need. Joining the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme gives us access to valuable tools and resources to continue this work. We hope this will go some way to making these discussions slightly less daunting for employees and managers. Additionally, it's yet another crucial step towards further supporting the advancement of women's careers in the professional services industry.
What steps have you taken so far to demonstrate commitment to the scheme and employees with endometriosis? Have you seen any impact following the steps taken? Could you share any examples with us?
We partner with our engaged and supportive Disability and Wellbeing employee network, and we have been pleased to create space to amplify the personal experiences of our people and build community. Examples of this include sharing powerful personal stories in an episode on endometriosis as part of our global podcast series, and in sponsoring and hosting the launch of an external support group for those navigating the challenges of working within the professional services sector whilst suffering from a chronic pain condition.
We are delighted with the feedback we have had, with colleagues opening up about their experience of endometriosis for the first time in the workplace, and sharing praise for breaking these taboos. We look forward to building on these first steps and continuing our progress as part of the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
Have you seen support from Senior Leadership?
Senior leaders across Ashurst have once again responded really positively to the news that we are building on our commitment to our people's wellbeing. We have been pleased to welcome many senior leaders, including men as allies, at our events and activities. This all comes down to improving organisational culture and wellbeing – that this is being cascaded down from senior leaders is very encouraging and indicates continued progress.
At Ashurst, we know the power of combining unique perspectives and talent to drive extraordinary solutions and services for our people and our clients. Fostering an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of diverse lived experiences is the cornerstone of our values and the foundation of our success. Creating an open culture is not easy, but the support of senior leaders makes it far easier to empower colleagues to discuss their health and associated challenges without fear of judgment.
We’re encouraging employers across the UK to get involved and pledge their commitment to creating a supportive workplace for employees with endometriosis. What would you say to someone considering joining the scheme?
Joining the scheme is just one step on the path to progress and to support for those with endometriosis – but it's an important one. We invite others to join us in this community of organisations looking to learn and share best practice, tools and resources to help your business and employees thrive. We know that by doing so at Ashurst, we not only create an exceptional business leveraging true diversity, but also make a positive impact on the world around us.
Thank you to Ashurst for becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and pledging to create a supportive workplace where employees with endometriosis can thrive.
Find out more about the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme here.
