employer support

[Pacotj]

Hello all,

I was hoping someone could give me some advice regarding support with my employer. I work in the NHS within a patient facing role where flexible working wouldn’t be possible. I was recently diagnosed with endometriosis after a 10 year battle and since I was off for a month with recovery I have been sent a formal letter to invite me to a meeting with a HR advisor and my SCN to discuss how to get my absence level to what they expect. I’m not sure how to approach this as there are absolutely times when i really struggle to work due to pain and would like them to be able to support me but i guess I’m wondering if anyone has any similar experience or has any offering words as I feel at a loss at the moment. If anyone has been in a similar situation or has any ideas on this I’d be so grateful x

[Purr317]

Hi,

I feel your frustrations. It’s really difficult with employment and endometriosis. Especially when condition is not classed as a disability, so no benefits available. I was working last year in a temporary position, had some time off for endometriosis pain and my contract was terminated. I know there are a list of companies signed up to helping employees With endometriosis. I think all you can do is explain your situation, how you feel and what you require. If they value you, then hopefully they will listen and help. I am currently training to be a counsellor and have a little shop on Etsy, so I can have flexibility when I’m not feeling ok. Can you adapt to a flexible position? It’s awful to be in this situation. I hope things will work out.

[Username12345678]

endometriosis uk have an endometriosis friendly Employer scheme. You can find details here - endometriosis-uk.org/endome... it might help to share this with your HR colleague as they might get some information on how they can support you better.

[Ayesfreen]

Hi Pacotj,

I am so sorry to read this. I feel your pain.

Since you work for NHS I am sure your Trust have occupational health team. You need to ask your line manager to refer you to OH.

Gather as much information as you may about endometriosis and the way it's effecting you and discuss this in your meeting with HR.

Sometime OH may also, advise your line manager to manage your absence by controlling sickness trigger due to endometriosis.

All the best!

[Starry1977]

ask for occupational health. I don’t have pain but I can have heavy periods, at times bleeding through within an hour. My employers are trying to move me to an office with a longer travel time and I’ve said no and gave lots of reasons including other issues but they’re still pushing it. A colleague devised occupational health to me.

[Pacotj]

thank you everyone for your suggestions. I have contacted occupation health and I’ve requested a rep from my union to accompany to my meeting for some extra support. I think asking for a couple of days off without being penalized when I’m having a severe flare up isn’t too demanding and considering I’ve now gone years gaslighting myself and making myself so unwell because I haven’t had an official diagnosis, it’s about time I started looking after my body x