The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (ROH) is proud to announce it is launching NHS rainbow badges for all staff.
The NHS Rainbow Badge initiative gives healthcare staff a way to show that their place of work offers open, non-judgmental and inclusive care for all who identify as LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender; the + simply means inclusive of all identities, regardless of how people define themselves).
The initiative originated at Evelina London Children’s Hospital and community services, part of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. Its simple objective is to make a positive difference by promoting a message of inclusion.
When staff sign up to wear the badge they will be provided with information about the challenges people who identify as LGBT+ can face accessing healthcare and what they can do to support them.
A Stonewall survey found that one in seven LGBT+ people have avoided medical treatment for fear of discrimination, and almost one in four have witnessed discriminatory or negative remarks against LGBT+ people by healthcare staff.
The initiative has been backed by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Health Secretary Matt Hancock and Strictly Come Dancing star and paediatrician Dr Ranj Singh. Matt Hancock said: “Every patient and everyone who works in the NHS should feel welcomed by the NHS, regardless of their gender identity, race or sexual orientation.
"I love wearing my rainbow badge and I wear it with pride.”
Dr Ranj said: “Young LGBT+ people face greater and more complex challenges than their peers, including in healthcare. As health professionals, we have a duty to ensure their wellbeing is paramount in all areas of their lives, so we need to create an environment where they can feel comfortable, valued and secure, especially when they need help".
“Small gestures like this mean so much to those that really need it the most, and I am beyond proud to be part of something that progresses the culture and values of the Trust. Now let’s do it across the whole NHS!”
If you see someone at ROH wearing a badge, please feel free to ask them about it. The badge is a reminder that you can talk to our staff about who you are and how you feel. They will do their best to get support for you if you need it. If you work at the Trust and would like to sign a pledge and collect a free badge, please visit the Communications office in Trust HQ. If you have any queries, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
