UK-based start-up launches workplace support programme for women with endometriosis

The UK-based health tech start-up frendo has launched a “first-of-its-kind” workplace support programme for women with endometriosis.

Endometriosis, a chronic disease which can cause organ dysfunction, chronic pain and infertility, affects one in 10 women of reproductive age in the UK.

Research by frendo found that one in five (20 per cent) women feel their workplaces are unsupportive of chronic health conditions, and while almost a quarter (24 per cent) of workplaces provide an employee support network for people experiencing fertility issues and menstrual problems, there is very little support in the workplace for endometriosis.

frendo@work aims to tackle this by providing organisations with the resources they need to support their employees with endometriosis, including company workshops, self-management tools and expert panel discussions, as well as resources and guidance for line managers to help them better support and communicate with staff members with the condition.

The programme seeks to help employers prioritise women’s health, help reduce staff absences and improve engagement and performance.

Employees can access frendo’s endo screening, tracking and community support through the frendo app, along with specialised guidance and resources on nutrition, fertility, pain management, pelvic health, mindfulness and communication.

“Endometriosis is an unpredictable condition,” said Dearbhail Ormond, founder and CEO of frendo, who was made redundant when she returned to work after endometriosis surgery.

“Sufferers will often look fine, but suddenly, all of that can rapidly change due to the onset of very painful and distressing symptoms, which many employers and managers struggle to understand and are currently not equipped to support.

“Thanks to increased awareness of endometriosis over the last couple of years, we are finally at an inflection point where organisations are asking what they can do to support those who suffer from the many impairments of the disease: pain, infertility, painful sex and mental health challenges, and at frendo, we want to be part of the solution.”

“frendo@work will help employers access the tools they need to guarantee health equity in the workplace, helping with staff retention and wellbeing.”

Dr Shaheen Khazali, consultant gynaecologist and endometriosis surgeon, said:“Endometriosis can prevent women from living their lives to their full potential, including in the workplace.

“By taking a multipronged approach, frendo@work will play an important role in not just helping people with the condition to manage it alongside their career, but by educating employers so that they can sufficiently support their staff.”