Fulton Hogan today announced its sponsorship of Endometriosis New Zealand, providing funding over the next 12 months to assist with research and educational programmes.

Fulton Hogan New Zealand CEO Robert Jones said that his company is determined to help remove barriers and provide support which will increase education and improve the treatment of endometriosis, which is a disease suffered by one in 10 women.

“We are inspired by the work of Endometriosis New Zealand and we are set on playing a role in increasing awareness of the condition,” Mr Jones said.

“While some may feel that an infrastructure company supporting this cause is an unusual fit, we think the opposite,” Mr Jones said. “Like us, Endometriosis New Zealand works hard as an industry leader to provide services, support and connections for its community.

“We see our two organisations as sharing similar values and we’re proud to be able to support the work it does.”

As part of the sponsorship agreement, Fulton Hogan will provide a research grant that will fund the study of endometriosis in adolescents. This will be conducted by a collaborative team of researchers from the University of Adelaide, University of Melbourne and University of Canberra.

Fulton Hogan will also fund Endometriosis New Zealand’s educational programme in Auckland and Wellington secondary schools. The ‘me’ programme (which stands for Menstrual Health and Endometriosis) has been delivered to secondary schools across the country since 1995 and is an important way of raising awareness among younger audiences.

Endometriosis New Zealand CEO Deborah Bush said she is grateful to have Fulton Hogan on board.

“We wish to thank Fulton Hogan for its generous support of our cause,” Mrs Bush said. “One in 10 women suffer from endometriosis – along with a significant percentage of women who go undiagnosed – so it is an issue we cannot afford to ignore.

“With the backing of Fulton Hogan, we’ll be able to do more in our pursuit to improve education and treatment.”