Is endometriosis a disability?
Under the Equality Act 2010, a condition counts as a disability if it has a substantial (more than minor) and long-term (12 months or more) effect on your normal daily activities. The law looks at how you would be without treatment. Endometriosis that causes severe pain or fatigue can be covered. Many people with endometriosis are.
Reasonable adjustments
- flexible hours, or working from home during flares
- easy access to a toilet
- time off for appointments and surgery
- a phased return after surgery
- not counting endometriosis-related absence towards sickness triggers
Endometriosis UK has an Endometriosis Friendly Employer scheme.
Benefits
PIP is based on how endometriosis affects you on most days. Severe pain and fatigue can affect activities such as preparing food, washing, dressing, toilet needs and moving around. Think about how often you have bad days over a year.
PIP points self-check
Go through the 12 PIP activities one at a time and see roughly how many points may apply to you.
About 10 minutes. Your answers never leave your device.
If you cannot work
If your health means you cannot work, or can only work a little, you may be able to get New Style Employment and Support Allowance or extra money in Universal Credit. These are separate from PIP, and you can get them at the same time.
Free, independent advisers, such as Citizens Advice or a local welfare rights service, can help you check what you can claim and fill in forms.
Sources we used
- GOV.UK, Definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010
- GOV.UK, Personal Independence Payment
- Endometriosis UK, Endometriosis and work
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