Fife tattooist raising cash for endometriosis charity with her designs

Claire Watson runs her own business, EndoInk, and offers free endometriosis-themed tattoos, asking only for a donation of any size.

Every penny raised from these tattoos goes to Exppect endometriosis clinic in Edinburgh, funding research and awareness of the condition, helping more women access studies, diagnosis and support.

In the last 12 months, Claire has raised more than £3000 for Exppect thanks to the generous donations of those receiving the free tattoos.

Claire, from Leven, said: “It feels amazing to have raised that much money. I did over 100 free tattoos last year and I’m really hoping to beat it this year and hopefully get more influential people to get them.

"This year’s fundraising has already begun with strong momentum. Recently, local MSP David Torrance took part in the campaign and received one of the free endometriosis tattoos – his very first tattoo – in a show of solidarity and support for those living with the condition.

"David has been a huge support for years now and he is really passionate about trying to help our cause, but I didn’t think I would ever get him in my chair.

"I still can’t believe he did it as he has no tattoos until now. He and Councillor Nicola Patrick, who has endometriosis herself, both got one.

“His participation has helped spark important conversations about women’s health, pain being dismissed and the urgent need for better research and funding.

“Endometriosis can take an average of seven to ten years to diagnose, and many people suffer in silence.

"This fundraiser is about visibility, community and giving women a voice – while directly supporting the research that could change lives.”

Claire set up support group EndoFife back in 2011, on behalf of national charity Endo UK.

Initially it was just a Facebook page where she shared information about the painful condition and tried to raise as much awareness of it as possible.

But as time went on, Claire discovered there were a lot of women across the Kingdom who were looking for support and advice on endometriosis, and it soon evolved into meetings, support groups and local events.

Endometriosis is caused by tissue, which normally grows inside the womb, growing in the pelvic area, leading to inflammation, scarring and adhesions.

It can cause women a great deal of pain. Symptoms include painful and irregular periods, pain during and after intercourse, bowel problems and fatigue.

Claire was diagnosed with the condition in May 2011 after 16 years of misdiagnosis and since then she has been doing what she can to raise awareness and support others.

Since launching her own tattoo studio in 2023, she is now using her creative skills to raise awareness of the condition and to fundraise for the Exppect Endometriosis Clinic.

Anyone wanting to find out more about EndoFife can either email: [email protected] or find the group on Facebook by looking up EndoFife.

More information on Claire’s tattoo business can be found by searching for EndoInk on Facebook.