University becomes an Endometriosis Friendly Employer

19 Sep 2024

University helps break taboos by becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer

The University has signed up to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, helping drive positive change in the workplace for the 1 in 10 women (and those assigned female at birth) with endometriosis. Endometriosis, a common, sometimes debilitating but often ignored gynaecological disease, costs the UK economy £8.2 billion a year in loss of work, treatment and healthcare costs. By joining this scheme, organisations like The University of Manchester are committing to ensure that those with the disease can contribute to the best of their ability and pursue the career of their choice - this benefits the employer, the individual, and the economy as a whole. The scheme provides guidance on how to support employees with endometriosis, with employers committing to providing those with the condition the necessary support to thrive at work.  

Andrew Mullen, Deputy Executive Director of People and Organisational Development from the University of Manchester said: 'As an employer, we are committed to supporting our workforce and helping employees reach their full potential. That’s why we’re proud to have signed up to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, and we hope we are leading the way for others in our sector.'

Lauren Bramley, chair and founder of The University of Manchester’s Endometriosis and PCOS Staff Network said: 'It is great news that The University of Manchester has signed up to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer. We really look forward to working with Endometriosis UK to continue to break down the taboo around menstrual health in the workplace, and to continue to create more inclusive work practices at The University of Manchester.'  

Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: 'I’m delighted to welcome the University of Manchester to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme. By showing their employees they are valued and can expect support and reasonable adjustments to help those with endometriosis and menstrual conditions succeed at work, they will be increasing engagement across the whole of their workforce, ultimately making the University more successful.'