East Ayrshire Council has become the first local authority in Scotland to officially recognise the impact endometriosis has on the working lives of female employees.

Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it harder to get pregnant.

The council has signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, run by the charity Endometriosis UK.

By adopting the scheme, the council is pledging to create a work environment in which those with the condition are supported.

Back in June, the council's cabinet approved the introduction of a Women's Health Policy, which focused on two of the most common medical issues affecting women’s health - endometriosis and osteoporosis, which weakens bones.

It supports those who are affected in any way by these issues, and assists managers so that employees reporting issues are treated fairly, without judgement and given support.

Councillor Clare Maitland, cabinet member for Health and Social Care, was the driving force behind the policy and has spoken passionately about the need for greater awareness, support and understanding.

She said: “I’ve been a sufferer since my early teens, and I know how debilitating this condition can be.

"I’ve been very closely involved in this work, which stemmed from our menopause working group.

"That working group has helped to raise awareness of the menopause in the workplace, and this focus on endometriosis helps to take women’s health in the workplace to new heights.

“As part of this work, we have signed up to the Endometriosis Friendly Employer Scheme.

"We are the first local authority in Scotland to do so and this is a clear demonstration of our commitment to developing a work environment and culture that enable employees with endometriosis to thrive at work."

Julie Burns, support group leader for the Ayrshire group of Endometriosis UK, said: “This is a great step forward to have one of the biggest employers in Ayrshire show their commitment to supporting their staff through their endometriosis journey. 

"I am very pleased to be able to collaborate with the council to support women in our region”.

The council is now in the process of identifying Endometriosis Champions, who can become a point of contact for employees experiencing issues at work as a result of endometriosis and can signpost colleagues for further information and support.