Evaluation of the Endometriosis at Work program

The intervention is implementing endometriosis guidelines at a national Australian workplace (600+ employees). The endometriosis guidelines involves two phases. Phase 1 is the adoption of endometriosis policy into existing HR systems (1 month). Phase 2 is comprised of a mandatory online course (approximately 1 – 2 hours) delivered via learning management system (LMS) and open to self-complete a 4-week period. Outcomes will be measured at baseline, 3, 6 and 12-months post LMS rollout. Phase 1: The endometriosis policy was codesigned by the research team, employed Australians with a diagnosis of endometriosis and individuals employed as managers, supervisors, senior leaders and human resources (HR). The policy consists of accommodations under education/awareness training of endometriosis, access to suitable working environments for those with endometriosis (such as access to adequate toilets, quiet break rooms, access to cold drinking water, etc), flexible working arrangements (such as, flexible start and endo times, flexibility around breaks, and ability to work-from-home if required). Lastly, the policy recommends the inclusion of surgery leave, which consists of a minimum of 5 days per calendar year (pro-rata, non-cumulative). Over the course of one month, the research team will work with the workplace’s HR to integrate the endometriosis policy into the existing HR system. This will be done by presenting the HR team with the co-designed endometriosis policy, and the HR team getting the appropriate senior leadership sign-offs to formally introduce the policy into their workplace. This timeframe also gives enough time for the HR team to input endometriosis leave and flexible working options into their online HR systems, so employees can log-in to their online HR system and request leave or notify of flexible working schedule under this HR system. E.g. an employee can log-in and request surgery leave under the endometriosis policy in their online HR system. Phase 2: Following completion of the baseline questionnaire, participants will engage with an online education course via online platform (learning management system or LMS). The LMS consists of five modules: (1) Welcome; (2) About Endo and EndoAware; (3) Supportive Workplaces; (4) Managers and Supervisors; (5) EndoChampions; to educate workplaces in best-practice to support employees with endometriosis. The education and downloadable resources within each module is based on thoroughly researched evidence-based practices from Western Sydney University. Below is a summary of content in each training module (1)Welcome: (2-3 minutes to complete) Comprised of one 2 minute video introducing the program, its purpose, the research informing the program. As well as a quick run through of the course work, which is comprised of videos, photos, educational text, interactive activities,such as quizzes, and downloadable resources. All courses and quizzes must be completed, and you must pass each quiz by a score of 75% in order to gain a certificate of completion for each module and get signed-off as completing the course. (2) About Endo and EndoAware: (approx. 25 mins) Comprised of videos, photos, educational text and interactive ac interactive activities,such as quizzes, and downloadable resources. This section will cover the following topics: What is endometriosis, breaking down the definition of endometriosis, its prevalence in society, and the common symptoms experienced by individuals; Next, we'll move on to explore how Endometriosis impacts a person's work and career. Here, we'll provide an overview of the challenges individuals with endometriosis may face in the workplace and discuss how initiatives like EndoAware can make a difference. Finally, we'll wrap up Module 2 with a quiz to reinforce your understanding of the material covered. (3) Supportive Workplaces: (approx. 35 minutes) Comprised of videos, photos, educational text and interactive ac interactive activities,such as quizzes, and downloadable resources. This section is Module 3: Supporting People with Endometriosis at Work. In this module, we're going to explore how we can create a more inclusive and supportive workplace for individuals dealing with endometriosis. First, we'll start with 3.1: Addressing Discrimination. Here, we'll discuss the types of discrimination that people with endometriosis might face in the workplace and how we can actively work to prevent and address these issues. Next, in 3.2: Challenging Our Assumptions of the ‘Perfect Employee’, we'll examine the often unrealistic standards we hold and how these assumptions can negatively impact those with chronic illnesses like endometriosis. We’ll learn why it’s important to redefine what makes a valuable and effective employee. Moving on to 3.3: Rethinking Flexibility and Support in the Workplace, this section will focus on new ways to think about flexibility and support. Specifically, we'll outline the key features and benefits of the Endo Aware program and endometriosis policy. In 3.4: What Is a Supportive Workplace, we’ll cover the characteristics of a truly supportive workplace and how to foster an environment where all employees, especially those with endometriosis, can thrive. Finally, we’ll wrap up with the Module 3 Quiz to test your understanding and reinforce the key points from this module. Following that, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how employees and managers can utilize this policy effectively. (4) Managers and Supervisors: (approx. 25 mins) Comprised of videos, photos, educational text and interactive ac interactive activities, such as quizzes, and downloadable resources. Module 4 is Managerial and Senior Leadership Support. This module focuses on how managers and supervisors should and can support staff dealing with endometriosis. We'll begin with 4.1: Why Senior Leadership Buy-In Is So Important. In this section, we'll discuss the critical role that senior leadership plays in fostering a supportive environment and consistent policy implementation. We'll cover why your commitment and understanding are essential for the success of any supportive policy. Next, in 4.2: What to Do When a Member of Your Staff Talks to You About Their Endometriosis, we'll provide practical guidance on how to respond effectively and empathetically. You'll learn the steps to take to ensure your staff member feels heard and supported, and how to implement the appropriate accommodations. Then, we’ll move on to 4.3: Review: Key Factors to Ensuring Your Staff Feel Supported. This section will recap the essential elements that contribute to a supportive workplace environment, emphasizing the practices and attitudes that help your team thrive. Finally, we'll wrap up with the Module 4 Quiz. This quiz will help reinforce the key points and ensure you’re prepared to apply what you've learned in real-world situations. (5) EndoChampions: (approx. 40 mins) Comprised of videos, photos, educational text and interactive ac interactive activities, such as quizzes, and downloadable resources. Module 5 is dedicated to the important role of being an EndoChampion in your workplace. We'll start with 5.1: Overview. This section will introduce you to the concept of an EndoChampion and outline the impact you can have in supporting colleagues with endometriosis. Next, in 5.2: Details of Your Role and Responsibility, we'll delve into what it means to be an EndoChampion. You'll learn about the specific duties and expectations associated with this role, and how you can effectively advocate for and support your colleagues. Moving on to 5.3: Get Ready for Your EndoChampion Role, we'll prepare you for the journey ahead. This section will provide practical tips and strategies to help you hit the ground running as an EndoChampion. Then, we'll cover the 5.4: EndoChampion Activity Checklist. This checklist will be a handy tool to ensure you're meeting all the necessary requirements and making the most out of your role. In 5.5: What to Do When an Employee Discloses They Have Endometriosis, we'll guide you through the appropriate steps to take when an employee opens up about their condition. You'll learn how to handle these disclosures with sensitivity and confidentiality. Along with facilitating their one-on-one EndoAware plan. Next, we'll discuss 5.6: Tips for Facilitating Difficult Conversations. This section will equip you with the skills to navigate and support challenging discussions, ensuring they are productive and compassionate. Finally, in 5.7: Additional Resources for EndoChampions, we'll provide you with further reading, tools, and support networks that can enhance your ability to serve as an effective EndoChampion. And to wrap it all up, there will be the Module 5 Quiz. This quiz will help reinforce what you've learned and ensure you're ready to apply these insights in your role The approximate time it should take to complete the 5 modules is approximately 2 – 2.5 hours. The educational videos in each module are designed to incorporate a collection of stories gathered from a series of focus groups lead by researchers at Western Sydney University which took place 2022 – 2023. These groups comprised individuals diagnosed with endometriosis who are working in Australia, as well as partners, friends, employers, supervisors, and managers with experience supporting someone with endometriosis. While each story is based on real experiences, they have been combined into a single narrative for educational purposes. The LMS is mandatory for all staff to complete. Staff will be given a link to access course online, and will have four weeks to complete the online course at their own pace. Online module completion rates will be recorded through the online LMS system to monitor adherence to the intervention.