News

Nineteen Group is proud to announce it has signed up to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, helping drive positive change in the workplace for the 1 in 10 women and those assigned female at birth living with endometriosis.

Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the uterus are found elsewhere in the body. These cells can grow and change in response to hormones in the menstrual cycle, this can cause inflammation, pain and scar tissue. Endometriosis is most commonly found on the lining of the pelvis and may occur in the ovaries and involve other pelvic organs, like the bowel or bladder. Endometriosis can also be found outside the pelvis, such as in the chest.

Symptoms, which can occur throughout the month, vary from person to person and may include severe pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, bloating, painful bowel movements, fatigue, and impacts on mental health and overall wellbeing.

The condition affects one in 10 women and those assigned female at birth, from puberty to menopause, and often has lifelong effects. In the UK, that’s over 1.5 million people from all backgrounds. Endometriosis is sometimes debilitating yet often overlooked, costing the UK economy £8.2 billion annually in lost work, treatment, and healthcare costs. Adenomyosis, a related condition where similar cells grow within the muscle of the womb wall, also affects 10% of women and those assigned female at birth. Many people experience both conditions simultaneously.

Alison Jackson, CEO from Nineteen Group said, "As an employer, we are committed to supporting our workforce and helping employees reach their full potential. That’s why we’re proud to have signed up to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, and we hope to lead the way for others in our industry."

"At Nineteen Group, our four core values - Kind, Agile, Driven, and Inclusive - guide everything we do. By committing to become an Endometriosis Friendly Employer, Nineteen Group is demonstrating just how inclusive and kind we are as an organisation.”

“Having lived with both endometriosis and adenomyosis for 14 years, it’s incredibly meaningful to see my employer taking tangible steps to support colleagues with these conditions. I’m confident this initiative will make a real difference for many people across the business, whether we know they have the condition or not." mentions Lanna Deamer, Deputy Editor, Emergency Services Times, part of Nineteen Group.

Emma Cox, CEO of Endometriosis UK said: “I’m delighted to welcome Nineteen Group to the diverse range of organisations tackling taboos around menstrual health and endometriosis through the Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.

“By showing their employees 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.”

As part of the scheme run by Endometriosis UK, Nineteen Group will appoint Endometriosis Champions, who will receive training from Endometriosis UK, to enable them to provide support and information to its workforce.