Zarah ChoudharyCiphr has joined the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme, raising awareness of this common yet often overlooked health condition.
Endometriosis impacts around one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth in the UK.
Despite being widespread, the condition is often ignored, with an average diagnosis time of nearly nine years due to a lack of understanding.
Karen Lough, director of people at Ciphr, said: “We’re delighted to join the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme and demonstrate our commitment to supporting our colleagues that are living with endometriosis, as well as breaking down taboos about menstrual health.
“At Ciphr, we’re proud to foster a workplace culture that prioritises employee wellbeing.
“One where discussing endometriosis, and other women’s health issues, is normalised and encouraged.
“This includes training managers and ensuring that employees who experience the mental and physical impacts of endometriosis, and other menstrual health conditions, know what extra support is available to them via company policies, health insurance plans and employee assistance programmes.
“We look forward to working with Endometriosis UK, and hope that we’ll inspire others working in the HR and people profession to join the scheme as well.”
Claire Williams, chief operating and people officer at Ciphr, added: “Creating an inclusive and supportive workplace is about fostering a culture of understanding and empathy, and this is another important step towards ensuring that all our employees feel heard, valued, and supported in managing their health at work.
“We recognise that conditions like endometriosis can have a significant impact on day-to-day life.
“We’re committed to equipping our managers and teams with the knowledge and resources they need to offer meaningful support.”
As part of the initiative, Ciphr appointed Lauren Scott-Jackson and Meg Shona Halpin-Webster as its Endometriosis Champions.
They will receive training from Endometriosis UK to provide guidance and support to Ciphr’s 230 employees. Both also lead Ciphers, an employee support network for women at Ciphr that meets monthly.
Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Ciphr 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.”
