‘A long-overdue step in the right direction' - Derry Well Woman Endometriosis Support Group
Derry Well Woman Endometriosis Support Group has received written confirmation from the Health Minister that ‘plans and investment for endometriosis services will commence in 2026’.
This, the group said, was something ‘that only came after relentless pressure.’
Sinn Féin MLA Ciara Ferguson submitted a parliamentary question asking Mike Nesbitt for an update on when his Department ‘expects to complete the business case for the planned regional endometriosis centre in the West.’
In response the Health Minister stated: “My Department is committed to ensuring that we have the right model of care, in the right place, at the right time. In this context, we have secured and delivered a Getting it Right First Time report on gynaecology and are progressing the implementation of its recommendations.
“A Regional Gynaecology Forum was established to take this work forward. The establishment of Regional Endometriosis Centres in the Western Trust and Belfast Trust, along with the enhancement of local services across all five Trusts, is a key priority."
He wrote that Business Cases relating to both the Regional Centres and local service models were expected to be submitted to the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) by the end of last month (March 2026).
"More complex endometriosis care will be provided in the Belfast and Western Trusts, supported by multidisciplinary teams of surgeons, including colorectal and urological consultants,” he stated.
A spokesperson for Derry’s Well Woman Endometriosis Support Group said this is a ‘long-overdue step in the right direction’ but is not ‘the finish line’.
"This is a direct result of the tireless work of Derry's Well Woman Endometriosis Support Group, alongside Ciara Ferguson MLA of Sinn Féin, who refused to let this issue be ignored any longer.
“Let’s be clear: this didn’t happen by chance. It happened because voices were raised, questions were asked, and pressure was consistently applied.
“For those living with endometriosis—many of whom have faced years of dismissal, delays, and inadequate care—this is a long-overdue step in the right direction.
“But this is not the finish line. We will be watching closely to ensure this funding leads to real, tangible improvements in services, diagnosis times, and patient care. Promises on paper must now translate into action.
“We will continue to push until meaningful change is delivered."