Danske Bank has joined the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme to support colleagues affected by a condition that impacts around 1 in 10 women, girls and those assigned female at birth.
The scheme, run by Endometriosis UK, helps employers create workplaces where people with endometriosis can access understanding, information and practical support.
The move comes as the average time to diagnosis is 9 years and 4 months in the UK, rising to 9 years and 10 months in Northern Ireland.
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Symptoms of endometriosis can include chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, painful bowel movements or pain when urinating and can lead to complications such as infertility, fatigue and can impact on mental health.
Danske Bank has introduced trained Endometriosis Champions, who have received specialist training from Endometriosis UK to provide support and information to colleagues and to help raise awareness of the condition.
The bank has also introduced new guiding principles for menstrual health, providing guidance for both employees and people managers on the support and workplace adjustments available to anyone experiencing endometriosis or other menstrual health issues.
Terri McCullagh, a Relationship Director, and one of Danske Bank’s Endometriosis Champions, said: “As someone whose life has been significantly impacted by endometriosis, I’m proud to help raise awareness and support colleagues who may be experiencing it too, whether diagnosed or still searching for answers.
“A supportive employer can make a real difference to someone’s ability to stay in work while living with endometriosis. Through the training I’ve received, I feel better equipped to offer practical advice and understanding. On a personal level I’m also committed to working alongside Endometriosis UK to help reduce diagnosis times and to make sure that others affected by endometriosis know they are not alone.”
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: “I’m delighted to welcome Danske Bank to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
“By showing colleagues that they are valued, and that support and reasonable adjustments are available, the bank is helping people with endometriosis and menstrual conditions succeed at work. This can also increase engagement across the workforce, ultimately making the organisation more successful.”
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Kerry Phillips, Diversity and Inclusion Partner at Danske Bank added: “We know endometriosis and other long-term health conditions can have a significant impact on our colleagues. Joining the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, alongside the introduction of our new menstrual health guiding principles, will help us better understand and support those colleagues, while encouraging more open conversations about menstrual health.
“This partnership came from the lived experience and suggestion of one of our colleagues. It is a good example of how listening to our people can help us create a more supportive and inclusive workplace.”
Endometriosis UK is the leading charity advocating for the 1.5 million people in the UK living with endometriosis. In addition to providing support services and reliable information, the charity works to ensure timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and greater public awareness of the condition.
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