Our Transgender and Non-binary statement

As the public debate around Transgender and Non-Binary rights has intensified over recent months, we want to issue a strong statement of support for our LGBT+ colleagues.

We have a zero tolerance approach to discrimination, victimisation or harassment on the basis of a person’s gender identity.

For many of us, work can sometimes be stressful. Imagine carrying the added emotional weight of having to deny and suppress one of the most fundamental aspects of who you are - your gender identity - because it doesn’t conform to society’s norms regarding gender expression. Imagine worrying about how people may react to you, if they knew, or experiencing rejection because of your gender identity.

These issues are pervasive for many Trans and Non-Binary people, who often experience stigma and discrimination, hostility, and pressure to ‘manage’ their identities in social settings - including the workplace - to suit the expectations of others.

Such experiences can set in motion a host of psychological responses that have devastating consequences for Trans and Non-Binary individuals’ emotional well-being, job satisfaction, and inclination to remain with an organisation.

We know that issues of rights, identity and belief are complex - and understand and respect that there can be differences between assigned sex and gender identity and expression.

It is crucial that everyone, including Trans and Non-Binary colleagues and patients feel respected and safe.

We therefore all have a role in ensuring that everyone is treated with dignity, respect and compassion. So, we encourage conversations to develop our own understanding and continue our learning.

Given what we know about the poorer healthcare outcomes for the LGBT+ population, it is also vital that we maintain the trust and confidence to deliver the best healthcare, tackle health inequalities and improve lived experience for both patients and staff.

Now more than ever is the time to encourage everyone to be good Trans allies and be proud to be a kind, fair and inclusive organisation.