Publish date: 30 June 2022

To round off Pride Month, DHU held its very first 'This is ME' day with the aim of raising awareness and celebrating inclusivity across company.

On Wednesday June 29th colleagues were encouraged to dress in colourful clothing and to brighten up their workspace. As well as celebrating freedom and equity, charitable donations were raised to support the LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall.

Over the week leading up 'This is ME' Day colleagues shared their stories, resources and fun quizzes to better understand the history and weight of Pride and the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

Pride is so much more than a celebration. Around the world, June is recognized as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer) Pride Month to commemorate a tipping point in queer history — the Stonewall Uprising.

Representing yourself

At the Orbis advice centre in Derby, our Health, Wellbeing and Diversity Lead Sonia Gale supported colleagues throughout the day and was available to issue NHS Rainbow Badges for those who had signed the pledge. She also judged competitions for the ‘most educational pod’ and ‘best decorated pod’.

Tanya Hudson-Gotobed, a CQI & DOS Lead for our NHS111 service and one of the organisers of the day, said: “It was overwhelming to see the effort everyone put in to decorating their pods in various aspects of diversity. They looked amazing and had great educational content.

“Everyone looked lovely. It was nice to see people comfortable in their own skin, dressed in clothing that represented themselves and their personalities. I only wish I had the confidence to dress like this more often!”

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Remembering history

Back in February for LGBTQ+ History month DHU ran a ‘Paint with Pride’ art competition to encourage colleagues to get creative throughout the month. As part of #ThisIsME day we also presented the winner, David Fletcher (Purchase Ledger Clerk), with a box of art supplies for his piece of art titled ‘History is happening around us.’

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‘This is ME’ Day has been a positive experience for colleagues and throughout the month we have welcomed hearing stories and having open conversations about the challenges people face to be themselves.

At DHU we are committed to creating an inclusive work environment and hope that both colleagues and patients feel safe to talk about their sexuality.

 

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