EndoThrive Workplace Accreditation empowers businesses to build inclusive workplaces for nearly 1 million Australians with endometriosis
Endometriosis Australia (EA) has announced the national launch of its EndoThrive Workplace Accreditation Program, following a successful pilot program with fashion brand Showpo.
EndoThrive is the country’s first workplace accreditation program designed to help businesses support, retain and empower employees living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.
Despite affecting 1 in 7 Australian women and those presumed female at birth (PFAB) by the ages of 44-49, endometriosis remains misunderstood and often under-discussed in workplaces.
The program was informed by research conducted by Southern Cross University and Western Sydney University’s NICM Health Research Institute, which revealed the significant career impacts of the condition and how workplace changes can positively influence management of the disease.
The research found:
- 1 in 3 employees have been passed over for promotion
- 1 in 6 have lost employment because of their symptoms
- 70% have taken unpaid time off work to manage symptoms
- 79% reported that work-from-home changes made symptom management easier
- 9 in 10 said flexibility in relation to time management and working from home was the most important factor to improve management of endometriosis in the workplace
Workplace support
Julie Snook, journalist, presenter and MC, and Endometriosis Australia ambassador, said endometriosis has affected every part of her life, including her career.
“There have been countless occasions, where I find myself sitting at my desk unwell, with heat packs and painkillers, simply trying to get through the day with this debilitating condition. The EndoThrive Program gives workplaces tools and knowledge to ensure no one has to reach that point before their workplace understands what they’re going through,” Ms Snook said.
Fashion brand Showpo onboard
Jane Lu, Showpo CEO, said EndoThrive has helped her business strengthen workplace culture.
“With 80 per cent of our workforce being women, supporting staff with endometriosis is especially important at Showpo,” Ms Lu said.
“EndoThrive has given us practical ways to create a more open and supportive workplace, and sparked inspiring conversations, from our warehouse team to office managers and executives. I encourage other businesses to become accredited.”
Natalie Rupil, Endometriosis Australia’s General Manager, said the program marks a major step forward in workplace equality.
“Too many people living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain have suffered in silence at work, often at the cost of their careers and health. The reality is it also costs Australian society $9.7 billion each year, with two-thirds of this due to lost productivity,” Ms Rupil said.
“We’re proud to have created a program that gives organisations a clear pathway to taking sustainable action that will improve culture and day-to-day support for staff.”
Divya Gokal, Endometriosis Australia’s Program & Client Manager, said the program helped employees feel supported at work.
“EndoThrive helps workplaces understand endometriosis and pelvic pain, so staff can access support without stigma. Ultimately, it’s about creative inclusive environments where every employee has the chance to thrive,” Ms Gokal said.
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