What motivated you to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme?
The Council developed a Women’s Health Policy in 2023 with a particular focus on two of the most common issues affecting women’s health - one of these being endometriosis. We were keen to demonstrate our commitment as an organisation to developing an environment and culture which enables employees with endometriosis to thrive at work. Signing up to the scheme provided a visible and meaningful way to do this.
What steps have you taken so far to demonstrate commitment to the scheme and employees with endometriosis?
We have recruited a group of endometriosis champions from our workforce and are currently arranging some drop in sessions for employees which will offer them the chance to meet with the champions, see some of the resources available and ask questions. The leader of the local support group will also be in attendance. We have also created a dedicated intranet page which contains resources, signposts and advice together with Endometriosis at Work guides for managers and employees.
Have you seen any impact following the steps taken? Could you share any examples with us?
We are likely to see more of an impact with the champions now established and the information sessions being arranged. However, the champions themselves have said how pleased they were when they saw the policy and requests for endometriosis champions coming out. They feel grateful that the organisation is putting this in place and are keen to be there to support others.
Have you seen support from Senior Leadership?
Yes, we’ve had support from both elected members (some of whom were part of the group involved in the development of the policy) and senior officers with the Chief Executive highlighting the new Women’s Health Policy in his weekly blog when this was launched.
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?
We would encourage other employers to get involved. It is a good way to show employees that the organisation is committed to supporting those with endometriosis and judging by the reaction of the new endometriosis champions it is something that many employees will feel the benefit of, being able to open up about their condition and feel they are supported and not alone.
Thank you to East Ayrshire Council for becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and pledging to create a supportive workplace for employees with endometriosis.
Find out more about the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme here.
