We were delighted to attend the first ever Hull Women’s Health Conference hosted and led by Dr Barbara Guinn of the University of Hull. This was a landmark event bringing together clinicians, researchers, community organisations and advocates all focused on one shared goal: improving women’s health outcomes.
Held at the University of Hull’s campus the conference created a powerful space for collaboration, learning, and honest conversation about the inequalities women still face in healthcare today – from diagnostic delays to gaps in research and treatment pathways.
A shared mission: closing the women’s health gap
Throughout the day a consistent theme emerged: women’s health has been under-researched and under-prioritised for too long.
Speakers explored key areas including menopause, cardiovascular disease, endometriosis and workplace wellbeing – all framed within the wider context of the national Women’s Health Strategy and the urgent need for system-wide change.
There was a strong focus on:
- Tackling diagnostic delays
- Improving access to services
- Listening to lived experience
- Building stronger partnerships between communities and healthcare professionals
Menopause at the heart of the conversation
As a menopause focused organisation it was especially encouraging to see menopause positioned as a central topic rather than a side conversation.
The discussions highlighted the importance of:
- Better education for healthcare professionals
- Access to menopause care for people with learning disabilities
- Empowering women to advocate for their own health
- Ensuring consistent evidence-based care pathways
This aligned closely with our own mission at Menopaus’ull which is to raise awareness, support women, and drive practical change at all levels.
One of the most powerful aspects of the conference was the sense of connection in the room. Researchers, clinicians and local services were all brought together and each contributing a different perspective but working toward the same outcome.
Here are some of the fantastic services that contributed to the day:
- Hey Endo
- Endo Buddies
- Fitmums and Friends
- HER Breast Friends
- Cocoon
- Hull Lighthouse
- House of Light
- Hull Women’s Aid
- Hull Sisters
- West Hull Natural Health Practice
These kinds of spaces matter, they create momentum and they turn awareness into action.
The team left the day feeling inspired, motivated, and more committed than ever to our work.
If there was one clear message, it was this:
When women’s voices are heard, health systems improve.
And that change doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens through collaboration, education, and persistence.
