Lauren:
Southeastern Railway became an Endometriosis Friendly employer in 2021. It is an amazing scheme to be part of. I started suffering with symptoms that I know now to be endometriosis when I was 15. I was dismissed by many doctors, and it wasn’t until I was 22 that I had my first Laparoscopy. The disease was completely unknown to myself and my family but to put a name to the pain I experienced, words cannot explain the relief I felt.
Over the years, I have come across so many women that have painful periods that completely interferes with their lives, it’s far from the sporty sanitary products adverts on the TV where you can do anything while on your period. Those suffering are cancelling social plans, taking days off work, and living with pain because we are told it is ‘normal’.
I wanted to make it my goal to support others with Endometriosis or those who suspect they have it. Making sure the information and support is there to help manage their condition and raise awareness as this affects 1 in 10!
At Southeastern, we are still in early stages of where we could be with supporting colleagues and family members of those suffering with this disease, but I am excited to be a part of the journey.
Southeastern Railway hosted a Tea for Endo and drop in session during endometriosis action month and raised money and awareness.
I am so proud that Southeastern Railway are an Endometriosis friendly employer developing a work environment that enables employees with endometriosis to thrive at work.
Amy:
My colleague, Lauren signed us up to the scheme. I had worked with Lauren for a number of years and witnessed first-hand how debilitating the condition can be. I saw the passion she had to help others, so when she went on maternity leave, I volunteered to make sure we continued the work in her absence.
The last year has been a real eye opener, we presented to our Senior Leadership team, some of which had no prior knowledge of endometriosis. I’m really proud to work for an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, and I’m amazed at the amount of people that have come forward to us to seek advice and support. I’m excited to see what the next two years bring.
Thank you to the team at Southeastern Railway for becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer. The Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme is a way for employers confirm their commitment to developing a work environment and culture that enable employees with endometriosis to thrive at work. Find out more here.
