Council sets a first for women’s health

By signing up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, run by the charity Endometriosis UK, the Council is pledging to create a work environment in which those with the disease are supported to thrive at work.

On 28 June 2023 Cabinet approved the introduction of a Women's Health Policy, which focussed on two of the most common medical issues affecting women’s health - endometriosis and osteoporosis.

The introduction of the Women’s Health policy links closely with the Council’s commitment to ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of its employees. It supports those who are affected in any way by these issues, either directly or indirectly, and assists and informs managers so that employees reporting issues are treated fairly, without judgement and given appropriate support.

Endometriosis is the second most common gynaecological condition in the UK, affecting around one in ten women, typically between puberty and menopause. Therefore any symptoms tend to emerge during a woman’s most active working years. With 70% of the Council’s workforce being women, it is not unreasonable to assume that a significant number of the workforce may therefore be affected by these conditions. 

Councillor Clare Maitland, Cabinet member with responsibility for Health and Social Care was the driving force behind this policy and she spoke passionately about the need for greater awareness, support and understanding.

“I’ve been a sufferer since my early teens, and I know how debilitating this condition can be. I’ve been very closely involved in this work, which stemmed from our menopause working group. That working group has helped to raise awareness of the menopause in the workplace, and this focus on endometriosis helps to take women’s health in the workplace to new heights – ensuring that female employees of all ages will receive the support they require in the workplace.

“So many women are afraid to speak out in the workplace for fear of not being believed, but this ground-breaking policy defines the roles and responsibilities of employees, managers, the People and Culture Service and Occupational Health in supporting employees affected by endometriosis.

“Earlier this year we invited employees to participate in a Women’s Health Survey and this feedback helped shape the policy and the accompanying guidance for employees and managers in relation to endometriosis at work.

“As part of this work, we have signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme. We are the first local authority in Scotland to do so and this is a clear demonstration of our commitment to developing a work environment and culture that enable employees with endometriosis to thrive at work.

Through the scheme, Endometriosis UK provides guidance for employers on how to support employees with endometriosis and menstrual health conditions, and work towards improving the work environment in three key areas: leadership and management support; tackling stigma and changing culture and communication.

Pat Menzies, Scottish Development Co-ordinator at Endometriosis UK, said:

 “We are delighted that East Ayrshire Council has become the first Endometriosis Friendly Employer among Scotland’s local authorities, and hope that other councils will follow its lead. We want to say a huge ‘thank you’ to East Ayrshire Council for taking this step to support employees with endometriosis, and more broadly for breaking down taboo and stigma around endometriosis and menstrual conditions, by committing to develop a work environment where all staff are comfortable talking about possible practical adjustments that could be of benefit.”

 “We would also encourage anyone with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis to find out about the information and support we offer as a charity, including our Ayrshire support groups and others across Scotland.”

Julie Burns, Support Group Leader for the Ayrshire Group of Endometriosis UK said: “This is a great step forward to have one of the biggest employers in Ayrshire show their commitment to supporting their staff through their endometriosis journey. I am very pleased to be able to collaborate with the Council to support women in our region”.

The Council is now in the process of identifying Endometriosis Champions, who can become a point of contact for employees experiencing issues at work as a result of endometriosis and can signpost colleagues for further information and support. 

Find out more about Endometriosis UK and its support groups at Get support | Endometriosis UK (endometriosis-uk.org)

Photo features:

Pat Menzies, Endometriosis Scotland, Councillor Clare Maitland,  Julie Burns, Ayrshire groups of Endometriosis UK and Amanda Lowe, Head of People and Culture at East Ayrshire Council.