Banks HSBC UK, First Direct and M&S Bank have pledged to support their employees by joining the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme this month (March).
Since it was launched in 2019 by the charity Endometriosis UK, more than 80 public, private and non-profit organisations have joined the scheme, so committing to developing a work environment and culture that enables employees with endometriosis to continue to work at the same level.
According to the charity, which is currently marking Endometriosis Action Month (March) by developing policies and nurturing a culture that is supportive to those with the gynaecological disease, organisations that engage in this way can create “a more engaged workforce and more effective staff”.
Cheryl Bosi, head of human resources at HSBC UK, commented that the bank has built a community that talks about awareness and education about women’s health and wellbeing and is underpinned by supportive policies and actions.
“Endometriosis is not just a women’s issue, it affects women and their families, and often at key stages of their careers. Last year we were proud to be the first Menopause Friendly accredited employer in the UK, and we are happy to now be working with Endometriosis UK to help break the taboo about the disease,” she said.
“Helping all our colleagues better understand and feel comfortable talking about the health issues that can impact their lives and those around them is the right thing to do for our people and our business,” Bosi added.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, explained that businesses tackling the taboo are taking a step forward for their staff, organisation, and society.
“It’s great that more of us are happy to discuss health and wellbeing at work having lived through the challenges that Covid-19 brought. 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, such companies are likely to have a more engaged workforce and more effective staff,” she said.