The Government’s Spending Review (SR) published today outlines the UK’s fiscal priorities and budget allocations for public services until 2029/30. As with other areas of government, this review plays a critical role in shaping the future of the Department of Health and Social Care and the NHS by determining the level of funding they will receive.
Endometriosis UK welcomes the Government’s decision to prioritise health in a tight fiscal climate, including the announced average 3% annual increase to NHS spending in England over the SR period. But to ensure this settlement delivers for those with endometriosis, funding must be matched by targeted action on women’s health. The upcoming 10 Year Health Plan presents a vital opportunity to address the long-standing and unacceptable gaps in diagnosis, care, and support for the 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth living with endometriosis.
Diagnosis times for endometriosis haven’t improved in a decade, gynaecology waiting times remain unacceptably high, and there can be challenges in accessing treatment even once a diagnosis is received. Without diagnosis not only can the disease worsen, but it can have a huge impact on all aspects of a patient's life, including their physical and mental health. Investment is therefore essential to ensure the NHS can deliver timely, effective care for all those affected by endometriosis.
The human and economic cost of neglecting endometriosis care is significant. A recent report by the NHS confederation found that severe period pain and heavy periods, alongside endometriosis, fibroids, and ovarian cysts are estimated to cost the UK economy £11 billion annually in lost productivity due to workplace absence. The case is clear - investing in women’s health is not only a matter of fairness - it is an economic necessity.
We therefore urge the Government to build on the investment that we saw today and to make women’s health a central pillar of long-term NHS planning. It is essential that the Government ensures the necessary funding and capacity are in place so that everyone with endometriosis can access the right care at the right time. We look forward to publication of the 10 Year Health Plan and working with the Government to ensure that women’s health is given the priority it deserves.
