Recite me link

LGBT+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender with the + representing additional identities to this including but not limited to Non-Binary, Queer, Asexual and Intersex. MTW is working hard to be as inclusive as possible of the LGBT+ community for our staff, patients and service users. There are several ways in which as a trust we are specifically working to be inclusive of this community.

LGBT+ Network

The LGBT+ Network at MTW is open to all LGBT+ Staff and LGBT+ Allies. The network provides a platform for addressing concerns specific to the LGBT+ community with pastoral support for all members. The network also hosts inclusive events throughout the year and helps shape organisational policy, equality and diversity at a corporate level by being a stakeholder in issues related to LGBT+ staff, patients and service users. Meetings are held monthly.

Hear from the Chair of our LGBT+ Network about the support they receive as a gay man at MTW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8N6ohcI3zeo

Contact: mtw-tr.lgbtnetwork@nhs.net

Twitter: @MTWlgbtnetwork

Rainbow Badge Scheme

The Rainbow Badge is an initiative which allows staff to show that MTW offers open, non-judgemental and inclusive care for patients and their families and friends who identify as LGBT+. This initiative originated at the Evelina London Children’s Hospital aiming to make a positive difference by promoting a message of inclusion through the symbol of the rainbow. Having a visible symbol of acceptance can make someone who identifies as LGBT+ feel safer and or indicate who they could approach if they have any issues, something which is extremely important within the NHS, as the LGBT+ community still experience significant inequality in relation to accessing healthcare.

Gender Reassignment

The Trust has a Transitioning at Work policy which is designed to aid managers in the support of staff who are transitioning from the gender assigned to them at birth to their gender identity. This is supplemented by awareness training for all staff.

There are several charities such as The Beaumont Society that can put you in contact with other trans people. Support is also available for lesbian, gay, bi and trans people from http://www.stonewall.org.uk/. GIRES’ aim is to improve the lives of trans and gender non-conforming people, including those who are non-binary and non-gender.