Today [14 October], the findings of the APPG on Endometriosis Inquiry, Endometriosis (Not) in the Workplace have been published.
Endometriosis is a chronic and often debilitating condition that can cause severe pain, fatigue, heavy menstrual bleeding, bowel and bladder symptoms, and fertility difficulties. For some, these symptoms make it harder to stay in work, progress in their career and maintain financial security.
Current workplace policies and guidance are framed around disability legislation. As a long-term, fluctuating condition, it is clear that the current system largely is not working for those with endometriosis. It is clear from the findings in the APPG’s report that this needs to change.
The APPG report:
Gathering evidence from more than 6,200 employees with confirmed or suspected endometriosis and 250 employers, the inquiry provides one of the most detailed pictures yet of the condition's impact on working life. While headline figures are important, the experiences behind the statistics reveal the true scale of the challenge facing thousands across the UK.
The inquiry found that:
- 97% had worked while experiencing severe pain.
- 94% believed employers lacked a good understanding of endometriosis.
- 62% worried about losing their job altogether.
- 49% had not received any workplace adjustments.
- 49% had experienced difficulties progressing their career.
- 47% had lost income and 39% had experienced financial hardship.
- 40% had turned down career opportunities, 39% had reduced their hours, and 28% had left a job.
- 72% of employers admitted their organisation provided no training or guidance on women's health.
The responses from employees are clear: those living with endometriosis in the workplace are demonstrating resilience, commitment, and determination to remain at work. However, too many are doing so without the support they need - often at significant personal, professional, and financial cost.
What happens next?
The APPG report underlines why action is urgently needed. At Endometriosis UK, we believe that no one should have to choose between managing their health and building their career. Greater awareness, clearer guidance for employers and access to practical workplace adjustments could make a real difference to helping those with the disease thrive at work
As the Government develops its Workplace Health System and its "Keep Britain Working" agenda, we believe there is a vital opportunity to ensure that the experiences of those with endometriosis and other menstrual health conditions are reflected in future workplace health reforms.
Doing so would help create clear, consistent and effective support for those living with long-term fluctuating health conditions.
Many of the workplace adjustments highlighted in the inquiry are simple and low-cost. Flexible working arrangements, time off for medical appointments, additional breaks and phased returns following surgery can all help people remain in work and thrive in their careers.
Take Action Today
We need the Government to hear directly from MPs about the experiences of those living with endometriosis and the changes that are needed.
Use our template letter to write to your MP and ask them to contact the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions to ask:
- How the Government plans to engage with Endometriosis UK as it develops the Workplace Health System.
- How endometriosis and other long-term fluctuating menstrual health conditions will be considered within this work.
- Whether a named lead can be appointed to engage directly with Endometriosis UK.
Together, we can ensure that the experiences of people living with endometriosis are not overlooked and that future workplace reforms deliver the support that people with long-term fluctuating conditions need and deserve.
Use our template letter today and help us make workplaces fairer, more understanding and more supportive for everyone affected by endometriosis.