Creating equal opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities at St Bartholomew’s
Removing stigmas and barriers to care is one of the best ways we can improve the experiences of patients and staff at our hospital.
That’s why I wholeheartedly welcome International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Tuesday 3 December.
This is a day of celebration that promotes equality and the opportunity for people with disabilities to reach their potential and develop a rewarding career with us.
Remember, people with disabilities can be most the talented, skilled and insightful individuals in the room. It’s therefore vital that they are given a seat at the table.
It’s also crucial that we offer the same level of care to our staff that we provide our patients. We need to understand that barriers – including the fear of discrimination – can prevent staff and patients from accessing the right services at the right time.
We’re fully committed to this cause at St Bartholomew’s, starting with the fantastic work done to date by our BartsAbility staff network.
World AIDS Day on Sunday 1 December is equally as important. We need to break down the barriers around living with HIV, celebrate the achievements of those living with HIV, and pay our respect to those who have lost their lives to the disease.
We are inviting everyone to wear the red ribbon proudly and help us start the conversation around HIV services. Ending the stigma starts with us, through conversations with colleagues and patients.
It’s our rich diversity that makes this hospital so special. I hope you will join me in celebrating it next week.