We have a duty to demonstrate a positive message of inclusion, as nobody should be afraid to be themselves. You may have seen some of our staff wearing the Provide Rainbow Badges. These are just one way of showing that Provide offers open, non-judgemental and inclusive care for all who identify as LGBT+.
If you see someone wearing one you can ask them about it.
The initiative originated at Evelina London Children’s Hospital and aims to make a positive difference by promoting equality and inclusion across the Trust. LGBT+ represents lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender with the + representing inclusivity of all identities regardless of how a person defines themselves.
Research undertaken by the LGBT+ charity Stonewall reported that
The Rainbow badges have been introduced within the organisation to increase awareness and help to improve the experience of healthcare for LGBT+ people, supporting both their physical and mental health.
Staff who have chosen to wear the Rainbow Badge have pledged to support inclusivity and can be approached with concerns or for support. They may not know all the answers but they will listen to you, treat you with respect and do their best to get support for you if you need it.
Wearing the badge is a visible way of staff demonstrating a commitment to reducing barriers and inequalities thereby improving the care we provide.
For an overview of the challenges people can face in relation to sexuality and gender read Stonewall’s LGBT in Britain Health Report which includes a review of key research.
Support and Additional resources
– The charity Stonewall have excellent resources to support LGBT+ people
– The Albert Kennedy Trust provides support for LGBT+ people who are homeless or living in a hostile home environment.
Support for Young people
– Juno Dawson’s This Book is Gay is a guide to sexuality and gender for young people, written by a young adult author
* Web pages for young people who are coming out for the first time: Coming out as a young person
* A booklet answering key questions young people might ask about coming out: Coming Out! Answers to some of the questions you may have
– Gendered Intelligence is a not-for-profit community interest company aiming to increase understanding of gender diversity. They have A Guide for Young Trans People in the UK.
– The charity Mermaids work to raise awareness about gender nonconformity in children and young people. They provide lots of useful information on their website for young people, and their families, around gender.
