Steph Richards Resigns as Parliamentary Advisor to Endometriosis South Coast

Steph Richards has stepped down from her role as Parliamentary Advisor to Endometriosis South Coast, the charity confirmed. She added that the decision was not taken lightly but was made in the best interests of herself, the charity, and its work supporting those living with endometriosis.

Endometriosis South Coast issued a statement confirming Richards’ resignation from the voluntary advisory position.

The charity emphasized that the Parliamentary Advisor role is voluntary, does not occupy a senior position, and does not speak directly on behalf of those affected by the disease. The appointment of Richards, who founded and was CEO of Translucent, an advocacy group focusing on trans and human rights, drew criticism last month.

Reform's spokeswoman for education skills and equalities publicly called for the charity to re-think Richards’ role.

She further stated on X, “With respect to him, this person is a man. I have no problem with what he wears or what he does in private. But he is a man. And it is not transphobic to say so.” Other critics described Richards’ selection as “inappropriate” and said they felt “uncomfortable” when Richards invited them to a parliamentary event.

An endometriosis patient called the appointment 'discordant and wrong'. Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting one in 10 women, where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body.

It commonly causes severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, and infertility by causing inflammation and scarring, according to the NHS website.