NHS reaffirms commitment to supporting LGBT+ patients and staff

A local NHS Trust has relaunched its ‘rainbow badge’ initiative to mark Pride in the NHS week.

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, the main provider of mental health services across both county’s and community services in Worcestershire has relaunched its rainbow badge scheme, reaffirming its commitment to providing non-judgmental and inclusive support and care for all.

The NHS Rainbow Badge, which was started by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London in partnership with Evelina London Children’s Hospital, is a symbol of the NHS commitment to promoting inclusivity and reducing inequalities.

The pin badge includes the iconic NHS lozenge on the rainbow flag, which can be worn on NHS staff lanyards or on uniforms.

Its colours reflect both the immense diversity and the unity of the LGBT+ community.

Each member of staff that wears one is required to sign a pledge demonstrating their commitment to providing support and signposting to LGBT+ people, and open, non-judgmental care.

Sammie Boatema-Cook, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead at the Trust said, “The rainbow badge is a powerful way of demonstrating our commitment to being inclusive and celebrating diversity across our Trust, not only to our patients but to our colleagues as well. If you see a member of our staff wearing the NHS rainbow badge, you can be confident in speaking to them about who you are, your identity and how you feel ”.

A survey performed by an LGBT+ charity estimated that 1 in 5 LGBT + people do not share their sexual orientation when seeking general medical care. It also found that 1 in 7 avoided treatment for fear of discrimination.

Graham Childs, Registered Nursing Associate and Chair of the Trusts LGBT+ Staff Network said, “Our staff wear their badges with pride, demonstrating their commitment to providing non-judgmental and inclusive care for all, regardless of how they identify. I encourage everyone to be proud of who they are, and not to hesitate about seeking help when they need it. The NHS is here for everyone.”

Those wishing to find out more about the rainbow badge scheme are encouraged to visit the NHS Rainbow Badge Twitter account.