AO is the latest organisation and the largest retailer pledging to support colleagues impacted by endometriosis, by joining the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
Through the scheme, which is run by charity Endometriosis UK, the Greater Manchester-headquartered electricals retailer will improve its support for those among its the 3,000 employees affected by this common disease, as well as breaking down taboos and stigmas around menstrual health.
Endometriosis impacts the physical and mental health of 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth from puberty to menopause, although the impact may be felt for life.
Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, painful bowel movements and pain when urinating. Despite being so common, it takes an average of eight years and 10 months to get diagnosed in the UK, for reasons including lack of understanding of the disease.
As part of the scheme, AO will appoint Endometriosis Champions via its women’s health group, who will receive training from Endometriosis UK, to enable them to provide support and information to its 3,000-strong workforce around the UK.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome AO to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
“By showing its team that 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 organisation more successful.”
Alison Hushon, AO’s Group HR Director, said: “We’re delighted to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme to ensure we can start to better understand and support those in the workplace with endometriosis, as well as break down taboos about menstrual health.
“We look forward to working with Endometriosis UK, and hope that we’ll inspire other online retailers to joining the scheme as well.”
Endometriosis UK is the leading charity championing the rights and needs of the more than 1.5m in the UK with endometriosis.
As well as providing support services, reliable information and a community for those affected by endometriosis, Endometriosis UK works to ensure that everyone with endometriosis gets prompt diagnosis and the best treatment and support, to end chronic menstrual related pain being brushed off as normal, and to raise awareness of endometriosis with the wider public.
Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body. These cells can grow and change in response to hormones in the menstrual cycle, this can cause inflammation, pain and scar tissue. Endometriosis is most commonly found on the lining of the pelvis (peritoneum) and may occur in the ovaries and involve other pelvic organs, like the bowel or bladder. Less commonly, endometriosis can also be found outside the pelvis, such as in the chest.
