Cardiff Council has joined the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, pledging to support staff affected by the condition.
As part of the scheme, which is run by charity Endometriosis UK, Cardiff Council will improve its support for those affected by the disease. It will also work to break down taboos and stigmas around menstrual health.
The employer has appointed endometriosis champions, who will be trained by Endometriosis UK and will provide information and support to colleagues.
The council, which employs 14,500 staff, is the second Welsh government body to join the scheme, after Powys County Council.
Cllr Huw Thomas, leader of Cardiff Council, 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 others to join the scheme as well.”
Frances Sheppard, endometriosis champion at Cardiff Council, added: “Having personally navigated the challenges of diagnosis and surgery for endometriosis, I understand how isolating and overwhelming the journey can be. I want to be a source of support and guidance for others, offering advice, empathy, and encouragement to help them feel less alone.”
