The South Eastern Trust has proudly demonstrated its commitment to inclusion by hosting dedicated Pride Awareness information stands in partnership with Trade Unions and The Rainbow Project.
The stands provided a key focal point for patients, visitors and staff, to help raise awareness and understanding of the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQIA+ people in a hospital setting. A particular emphasis was placed on supporting those living with or beyond cancer, as well as their friends, family and carers. The stands also provided valuable resources to staff, encouraging inclusive healthcare practices and offering information on how to support LGBTQIA+ patients with dignity and compassion.
Assistant Macmillan Health & Wellbeing Co-Ordinator at the South Eastern Trust, Jemma Ewing, said, “This is an opportunity to come together with The Rainbow Project and the Cancer Champions Team to remind and reassure people that support is available through the Health and Wellbeing Service here at the Ulster Hospital. We offer practical, emotional and financial support to everyone, including those from the LGBTQIA+ community.
“People can still face barriers when accessing healthcare, whether it is feeling unable to speak openly about their experiences or relationships. We know of individuals who have not shared their cancer journey with colleagues because they have not felt comfortable being open about their partnerships. It is so important to highlight that support is accessible to everyone and that the Health and Wellbeing Service is a safe and welcoming space.”
Cancer Champions Manager with The Rainbow Project, Joe Henson, added, “Pride is a key time to celebrate diversity but also to reflect on the real experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community within healthcare. People want to feel confident and safe in hospitals and something as simple as a rainbow badge, a banner, or an information stand can make a huge difference.
“If I was walking into a hospital and saw this stand, I would instantly feel more at ease because I would know someone had considered my experience. Everyone feels anxious coming into hospital, but for LGBTQIA+ people, there can be added anxieties. Particularly around cancer care, we need to ensure support is visible and accessible not just to patients but to families, friends, carers and those who are bereaved. These small actions make a very real difference, and people do notice.”
South Eastern Trust Equality Officer, Denise Hopps, commented, “The Trust is fully committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected, valued and supported. Initiatives like this are crucial in reinforcing that message and ensuring equality of care for all patients and staff. Visibility matters and through partnerships with The Rainbow Project and Trade Unions, we can continue to promote understanding, challenge inequalities and foster a culture of acceptance and belonging.”
The Macmillan Health and Wellbeing Service, based at the Ulster Hospital, is available to offer practical and emotional support to all cancer patients and their families. For further information, contact (028) 9055 3246. Staff can also signpost and refer patients to The Rainbow Project and Cancer Champion Service for additional specialist support.
Lee Edmonds (RCN), Denise Hopps (Equality Officer, South Eastern Trust), Pam MacKenzie (UNISON), Gillian Foley (UNISON), Rachel Monroe (Equality Assistant, South Eastern Trust) & Lorraine Drummond (UNISON)