Celebrating and learning in LGBTQ+ History Month at West Yorkshire Combined Authority

In a world that continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly crucial to acknowledge and honour the diverse tapestry of human experiences. As we embark on the journey of LGBT History Month, we open the door to a rich chronicle of resilience, struggle, and triumph that has shaped the lives of countless individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.

With the theme 'Under the Scope,' we delve into the stories of historic doctors who broke barriers, discovering innovative methods to treat and support LGBT+ individuals. Moreover, we pay homage to those who courageously fought against societal norms, all while providing care and assistance to those in need.

In the intricate tapestry of LGBT+ history, the realm of healthcare plays a pivotal role. This theme invites us to explore the narratives of medical pioneers who, in their pursuit of knowledge and compassion, pioneered ground-breaking approaches in the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. From historical figures who shattered barriers to those who navigated against the tide to authentically be themselves while aiding others in accessing care, the contributions are both inspiring and transformative.

Join us on this insightful journey as we uncover the untold stories of resilience and progress within the intersection of healthcare and the LGBTQ+ community. From the historic trailblazers to the unsung heroes, we aim to shed light on the invaluable role that healthcare professionals have played in shaping a more inclusive and understanding world for everyone. 'Under the Scope' is not merely a theme; it is an invitation to re-examine history through a lens of empathy, recognition, and appreciation for those who paved the way for a more compassionate future.

We’ll be posting blogs and hosting conversations over this  month… come along and learn with us…

Did you know….in healthcare…

 

• Almost one in four LGBT people (23%) have witnessed discriminatory or negative remarks against LGBT people by healthcare staff.
• One in seven LGBT people (14%) have avoided treatment for fear of discrimination because they’re LGBT.
• Nearly half of trans people (45%) said that their GP did not have a good understanding of their needs as a trans person, rising to over half of non-binary people (55%).

Did you know…at work…

 

• More than a third of LGBT staff (35%) have hidden that they are LGBT at work for fear of discrimination.
• One in four trans people (26%) aren’t open with anyone at work about being trans. This number increases to about two in five non-binary people (37%) who aren’t out at work.
• Almost one in five LGBT people (18%) who were looking for work said they were discriminated against because of their identity while trying to get a job.

[From Stonewall website]

These statistics are worrying to see and part of the reason we need to raise awareness each LGBT+ History Month. UK LGBT+ History Month takes place every February in order to claim our past, celebrate our present and create our future and this year the focus is on medicine.

As you will see from the stats above, there is much we need to do in healthcare to tackle these inequalities.

This month why not take on a challenge of doing just one thing to help you better understand the challenges faced by our LGBTQIA+ communities and colleagues. 

There are a number of resources from the NHS Confederation which might help you;

Inclusive leadership pledge – Over 1,200 leaders and aspiring leaders across health and care have signed our inclusive leadership pledge. The pledge includes nine behaviours you can adopt to model inclusive leadership. Find out more and sign the pledge now.

Health and Care LGBTQ+ Inclusion Framework – The framework is built on six pillars to enable health and care leaders to ensure their working culture and services are LGBTQ+ inclusive.

Leading for All: Supporting Trans and Non-binary Healthcare Staff – The guide provides healthcare leaders with the information and tools to effectively support trans and non-binary staff, and create an inclusive culture for all.

Dr Layla McCay on the experiences of LGBTQ+ NHS staff – In this blog, Dr Layla McCay, executive lead of the Health and Care LGBTQ+ Leaders Network, shares her thoughts on the inequalities of experiences of LGBTQ+ people as reflected in the NHS Staff Survey.

Peter Molyneux on authentic leadership – Peter Molyneux, chair of the Health and Care LGBTQ+ Leaders Network shares the challenges of being authentic while in a leadership role, and what it means to be an authentic leader.

Supporting your LGBTQ+ workforce – Access tools, resources, and best practice to help you create a culture and environment that welcomes LGBTQ+ staff, allowing them to be themselves at work and to contribute fully to the wider organisation.

LGBTQ+ Patient Experience in Primary Care – Read an updated report from the LGBT Foundation which highlights the experiences of LGBTQ+ people accessing primary healthcare, and steps to ensure that GP services are LGBTQ+ inclusive.

Sexual orientation and gender identity data – The Office for National Statistics (ONS) census data around sexual orientation and gender identity data is a useful tool to support LGBTQ+ healthcare and a workforce that is inclusive and representative.

LGBTQ+ equality in medicine – The BMA have a range of resources which explore the experiences of LGBTQ+ doctors and medical students in education, training and the workplace.

LGBTQ+ workforce visibility – Seven LGBTQ+ mental health sector leaders share their journeys and reflections on being confident and visible in their identities, leading as their authentic selves, in this two-part podcast special. 

For more information on things that are happening across the country on this year’s celebrations see LGBT+ History Month 2024 - LGBT+ History Month (lgbtplushistorymonth.co.uk).