Ahead of the Budget, we urge the Government to ensure that the 1.5 million living with endometriosis are not overlooked in its plans for the NHS, women's health, and workplace reform.
Too many women, and those assigned female at birth, are still facing years of pain before receiving a diagnosis, followed by long waits for specialist treatment. As Ministers consider how to improve NHS performance, reduce economic inactivity and support more individuals to stay in work, investing in gynaecology and endometriosis services must be part of the solution.
Endometriosis can have a profound impact on education, employment, and quality of life. Earlier diagnosis and timely access to specialist care not only improve health outcomes but help those living with the condition to remain in work, and progress in their careers.
The recent APPG on Endometriosis inquiry, for which we act as secretariat, heard from those whose careers, finances and wellbeing have been profoundly affected. The report produced revealed that many are reducing their hours, turning down opportunities, using holidays instead of sick leave, or leaving employment altogether because workplaces and support systems fail to recognise the realities of living with a long-term, fluctuating condition.
At a time when Ministers are focused on supporting people to remain in work and reducing economic inactivity, there is a clear opportunity to act. The APPG's report provides a clear evidence base for change. We urge the Government to work with those who have lived experience, employers, and the third sector to ensure workplace reforms reflect the realities of endometriosis and other fluctuating conditions.
The Government has shown welcome ambition through the renewed Women's Health Strategy. However, the strategy’s success requires ringfenced funding for its implementation.
The challenge now is delivery. Those living with endometriosis cannot afford to wait years longer for meaningful change.
This Budget is an opportunity for the Government to demonstrate that improving women's health remains a priority and that those living with chronic, often debilitating conditions such as endometriosis will not be left behind.