Solent NHS Trust colleagues wear NHS rainbow badge to support inclusion
Colleagues from across Solent NHS Trust have made a pledge to wear a NHS rainbow badge to show their support for all who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and all other identities (LGBT+).
The intention of the badge is to show that the Trust is an open, non-judgemental and inclusive place for LGBT+ patients and colleagues.
By wearing the badge, colleagues are sending a message that service users and other colleagues can freely talk about LGBT+ issues with them, and be signposted to appropriate support where needed.
So far, almost 600 colleagues from the Trust have made the pledge, which was launched on Monday 29 July.
Kathryn Smith, a founding member of the LGBT+ Allies Staff Network for Solent NHS Trust, said: “We are really proud to be a part of this fantastic initiative which promotes inclusion and support for our LGBT+ patients, staff and visitors.
“By wearing the badge you can play an important part in reducing stigma and inequality. Reading the pledges made so far by my colleagues has been both encouraging and humbling. For me, it is important that everyone can be themselves at work. This little badge is a visible sign of our commitment to inclusivity, everyone counts and is valued.”
The Trust’s Sexual Health Service will be attending Southampton Pride on Saturday 24 August 2019, in conjunction with its partners No Limits – a charity which supports children and young people.
Solent colleagues will also be promoting the badge during the event.