On 14 June, NHS Boards across Scotland launched the NHS Scotland Pride Badge to reinforce core values of care, compassion, openness, honesty, dignity and respect for everyone, irrespective of their individual identities.
By wearing the #NHSScotlandPride Badge, staff are pledging to become an ‘ally to progress’ which means:
- Be aware of, and consider, the impact of issues facing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) and minority ethnic people when accessing care;
- Be a safe person to talk to;
- Use inclusive language;
- Respect identity.
Chris Kimber, equality and diversity advisor, said: “Making the pledge and wearing the badge aims to create a safer and more equal NHS for patients, people who use our services and staff alike.
“Our commitment includes, but is not limited to, the trans community – represented by the white, pink and blue chevrons – and people from visible minority ethnic groups represented by the black and brown chevrons.”
Chris added: “One in four LGBT+ people have faced discrimination in healthcare settings and this discrimination increases if someone identifies with more than one marginalised group. For example, Black African and lesbian. Pledging a commitment and wearing a badge proudly helps promote an inclusive and supportive environment across NHS Lanarkshire.”
Click here to:
- watch the Pride Badge video;
- take the pledge;
- access the Pride badge toolkit; and
- social media assets.
The online pledge form is available using Chrome, Firefox and Safari browsers. Please note that it is not available through older versions of internet explorer.
For any queries, please email Chris Kimber at Chris.Kimber2@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
