Scottish train network ScotRail has become an endometriosis-friendly employer scheme as part of its pledge to support its employees impacted by the condition.
Through the scheme, which is run by charity Endometriosis UK, the employer will improve its support for its affected employees, as well as breaking down taboos and stigmas around menstrual health. It will also appoint endometriosis champions, who will receive training from the charity so they can provide support and information to colleagues.
The employer’s workforce will also be able to access a range of resources on managing the condition, their rights at work, and personal stories, as well as bespoke training on how to best support staff. The charity additionally offers resources for employers on best practice and the law.
As it takes an average of eight years and 10 months to get diagnosed in Scotland, due to a lack of understanding of the disease, the organisation decided to offer its workforce support to combat this.
Robyn Wallace, equality, diversity and inclusion advisor at ScotRail, said: “ScotRail is delighted to join the endometriosis-friendly employer scheme to ensure we can support those in the workplace with endometriosis, as well as break down taboos about menstrual health. We are now working hard to raise awareness of the scheme and will be appointing endometriosis champions across the business to ensure we reach employees across the country.”
Emma Cox, chief executive officer of Endometriosis UK, added: “I’m delighted to welcome ScotRail 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.”
