NHS Ayrshire & Arran has pledged to support colleagues impacted by menstrual health problems by joining the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.

Through the scheme, which is run by charity Endometriosis UK, NHS Ayrshire & Arran will improve support for those in the workplace affected by this common disease, as well as breaking down taboos and stigmas around menstrual problems.

It is the first health board in Scotland to sign up to the scheme.

Endometriosis is a disease which impacts the physical and mental health of one 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 Scotland, for reasons including lack of understanding of the disease.

As part of the scheme, the board will be appointing Endometriosis Champions, who will receive training from Endometriosis UK, to enable them to provide support and information to colleagues.

Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: “I’m delighted to welcome NHS Ayrshire & Arran 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.”

Clare Burden, Chief Executive of NHS Ayrshire & Arran, said: “We are committed to improving the health and wellbeing of our workforce and recognise that endometriosis is all too often overlooked, despite the pain and suffering it causes.

“By developing supportive employment practices, increasing awareness and providing support for staff through our Occupational Health and wellbeing services we want to help those with endometriosis keep well and thrive at work. Our attainment of accreditation is part of a wider commitment to improving menstrual health.

“We are delighted to be the first Scottish Health Board to be working towards becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer and look forward to working with Endometriosis UK”.

Julie Burns, from the Ayrshire Endometriosis UK Support Group, added: “This is a great step forward to have one of the biggest employers in Ayrshire show their commitment to supporting staff through their endometriosis journey.

"I am very pleased to be able to collaborate with NHS Ayrshire & Arran to support the one in 10 who suffer from endometriosis in our region”.