Falkirk Council takes 'simple step' to support female staff by becoming endometriosis friendly employer

Members agreed the council should take steps to become an “endometriosis friendly employer”, in a bid to offer support to women living with the chronic condition, which can cause extreme pain.

Labour councillor Siobhan Paterson proposed the move in a motion at the latest meeting of Falkirk Council, seconded by SNP councillor Stacey Devine, and unanimously supported.

They urged the council to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme, which provides guidance and training to help employers create supportive work environments.

The scheme recognises that employers can play a crucial role in supporting those affected by endometriosis – when cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body.

Councillor Paterson said: “Endometriosis affects one in ten women. But despite its prevalence, it is widely misunderstood, frequently dismissed and all too often unsupported in workplaces.

“We are able to take action locally to create supportive workplaces, reducing stigma surrounding menstrual health, improving retention of our staff and fostering a more inclusive culture.”

The motion highlighted that people with endometriosis may lose between 1.9 and 15.8 work hours per week depending on severity.

By joining the scheme, the council will commit to raising awareness across the workforce; training managers to understand symptoms, make adjustments, and offer support; and review relevant HR policies to ensure they include appropriate menstrual and gynaecological health provisions.

Councillor Stacey Devine told the meeting that she was keen to second the motion because of her personal experience.

“I have endometriosis and have done for over 20 years, so I speak from a personal perspective here,” she said.

She highlighted the “amazing” work being done by organisations including NHS Forth Valley, which is now an endo-friendly employer and welcomed the fact that other councils have also signed up.

“I think this makes a huge statement to women like myself, who suffer from this horrific disease, that goes undiagnosed, that goes ignored – and shows that we actually care,” she said.

Ms Devine also praised a recent event at the Scottish Parliament where guests heard first-hand about the incredible work being done by Endometriosis UK and through the Women’s Health Plan.

“Yes, we have a long way to go but there are positive strides being made,” she said.

Labour councillor Anne Hannah said her colleague’s motion would send a message to council staff and to the public that “Falkirk Council cares about women’s health and will do everything that we can to support it”.

The SNP leader of the council, Councillor Cecil Meiklejohn, said it was “really heartening” that councillors felt able to share their lived experience, which will help to “break down taboos” and allow women to be valued in the workplace, despite the fact that they may have challenges.

Speaking after the meeting, Councillor Paterson said she was delighted her motion had been supported unanimously.

She said: “This is a simple, low cost step – but one that can make a profound difference.

“Endometriosis is not only a women’s health issue; it is a workplace equality issue.

“Our staff deserve a working environment where their wellbeing is understood, supported, and prioritised. By becoming an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, we are sending a clear message: no one should struggle in silence.”