How to manage IBS in the workplace
10th March 2020

The IBS Network is raising awareness of how to manage IBS in the workplace at the UK’s Health and Wellbeing at Work show, taking place in Birmingham this week (10-11 March 2020).

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a long-term condition which affects around 12 million people in the UK. IBS can be a very isolating and debilitating condition with symptoms including abdominal pain, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. The condition is different for each individual and can be triggered by stress, anxiety and depression.

The IBS Network, the national charity supporting people with IBS, is raising awareness of the challenges people with IBS face whilst managing their condition at work.

Alison Reid, chief executive of The IBS Network, said: “It is estimated that Britain’s businesses lose almost £3 billion every year though sick days relating to gut health. The Health and Wellbeing at Work event is a great opportunity to raise awareness of how employers can reduce sickness absence by better supporting employees who have IBS.”

There are many ways employers can support their employees including offering flexible working, home-working, regular breaks, and monitoring workload to minimise stress. Employees who are office-based may benefit from being close to toilet facilities, while those working on the road may benefit from a Can’t Wait card or Radar key to gain access to toilet facilities when they need them.

For more information on managing IBS visit The IBS Network website here.