Endometriosis Awareness North, which was formed in Chadderton, attended an All-Party Parliamentary Group meeting at Westminster to discuss the impact of endometriosis on employment.
According to survey findings shared by the charity, 90% of respondents had taken time off work because of endometriosis, while 55% had used annual leave instead of sick leave.
The findings also showed that 47% had lost income, 40% had experienced financial strain and 36% had continued working despite chronic pain.
Three-quarters reported that their employers provided no training on endometriosis or women’s health.
Charity founder Dr Anita Sharma said the organisation had worked with police, public transport companies and banks in the region to raise awareness. It also provides information about workplace rights through webinars, school visits, medical events and online resources.
She said: “The fact that women are losing money, holiday time with their family, and going to work in agony is absolutely reprehensible.”
Oldham ambassadors Courtney Ormrod and Lucy Bowker shared their experiences of the condition’s impact on their careers and education at the meeting.
Dr Sharma called for employers to consider changes to working arrangements.
She said: “Practical adjustments can be made, such as flexible hours, home or hybrid working where possible, changes to duties, flexibility to alter shifts, additional breaks, suitable uniforms, immediate toilet access, phased returns and paid time for medical appointments.”
Further information about the charity and its work is available at endometriosisawarenessnorth.com.
