Health / Health board signs up to endometriosis friendly employer scheme
NHS SHETLAND says it has become one of the latest organisations to pledge to support colleagues impacted by endometriosis by joining a national scheme.
It has joined the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, which is run by the charity Endometriosis UK.
NHS Shetland said through this scheme it will improve its support for those affected by this common disease, as well as “breaking down taboos and stigmas around menstrual health”.
Endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body, and can cause debilitating pain during menstruation and ovulation.
NHS Shetland said symptoms of Endometriosis include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, painful bowel movements and pain when urinating.
Despite being so common, it takes an average of eight years and 10 months to get diagnosed in the UK, with one of the reasons including lack of understanding of the disease.
As part of the scheme, NHS Shetland has appointed an ‘endometriosis champion’ – who has received training from Endometriosis UK – to enable them to provide support and information to its workforce.
Occupational health advisor Francesca Laurenson, who has taken on the champion role, said: “We’re delighted to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
“Our aim will be to gain a better understanding of how this condition can affect an individual’s health and well-being and how we can best support them in the workplace.
“We aim to educate both managers and employees about endometriosis while also addressing the general taboos surrounding menstrual health. By doing so, we hope to encourage those who are suffering to seek advice and support.
“We look forward to working with Endometriosis UK, and hope that we’ll inspire others in Scotland and Shetland to join the scheme as well.”
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, added: “I’m delighted to welcome NHS Shetland 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 to succeed at work, they will be increasing engagement across the whole of their workforce, ultimately making the organisation more successful.”
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