Published on: 23rd July 2024
Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LPFT) has received a Stonewall Bronze Award for its commitment to ensuring staff feel able to bring their full selves to work and feel welcome in the workplace.
Stonewall, Europe’s largest charity for lesbian, gay, bi-, trans and queer (LGBTQ+) rights, creates an annual Top 100 Employers 2024 list which recognises exceptional employers which are committed to supporting their LGBTQ+ staff and customers/service users.
This is wonderful news for the Trust and to have ranked 61st this year shows significant strides towards creating an inclusive working environment have been recognised.
LPFT staff networks, for example, have been expanding. Training opportunities and events have been very successful, and staff continue to access free webinars, pronoun resources, the Lincolnshire allyship toolkit, and the rainbow lanyard and badge scheme. As a sponsor of East Coast Pride on 7 September in Skegness, LPFT staff hope to meet members of the public and share more information about our services and working for us.
Chief Executive and LGBTQ+ and Allies Staff Network Executive Sponsor, Sarah Connery (she/her), said:
“I am delighted we have been recognised as a Bronze Award employer and in the top 100 this year!
“It’s incredibly important to me that we make sure our services are accessible and inclusive, so everybody feels safe to receive the care they need. It is just as important that our people feel welcome, respected and represented at work. We believe everyone should feel a sense of belonging here at the Trust and to know their voices are heard so that where needed we can make improvements to people’s experiences.
“We know there is more work to be done but this achievement shows that we are headed in the right direction, and I am so proud of all the fantastic work which has taken place over the last few years.
“I will continue to be a proud ally in the coming year and ensure our Trust keeps a strong focus on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. I hope to see lots more of you at upcoming events.”
Colin Macfarlane, Director of Programmes and Income at Stonewall (he/him) said:
“Implementing inclusive practices and policies is vital for employers who wish to attract and retain top LGBTQ+ talent. The Workplace Equality Index draws participants from diverse industries and sectors, all of whom understand that inclusivity is the future and are leading the way in this vital change. By championing LGBTQ+ employees, you are fostering a happy and motivated workforce and contributing to a UK where LGBTQ+ people can thrive as their true selves.”
For more information about LPFT and current vacancies, please visit www.lpft.nhs.uk/jobs
