University Hospitals of North Midlands (UHNM) has pledged to create a more positive and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ people as part of a city-wide scheme to improve safety, trust and access to services.

UHNM's decision to sign up to the Proud Stoke Spaces initiative reaffirms their commitment to improving the experiences of LGBTQ+ staff, patients and visitors at Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital in Stafford.

The scheme aims to make local hospitals feel like " welcoming and supportive" places for those who identify as LGBTQ+.

Proud Stoke stickers will be displayed in both hospitals to remind people of the initiative's key messages.

Delivered in partnership with local charity Project 93, UHNM has promised to use respectful and inclusive language, take a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination, and continue to build staff understanding through training.  

Samantha Cartwright, radiotherapy engineer and chair of the UHNM LGBTQ+ staff network, said: "Signing up to this project is about making it clear that everyone is welcome at UHNM.

"For some patients, there can be a worry about whether they'll be accepted or understood.

"Having something visible at the entrance can help put people at ease and make it easier for them to speak openly with staff, which helps us give the right care.

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"The stickers also reflect the work going on behind the scenes to make sure staff have the knowledge and confidence to treat everyone with kindness and respect.

"This builds on ongoing work at UHNM with Project 93, including training to help staff better understand the needs of LGBTQ+ patients in a healthcare setting.

"Feedback from staff has been positive, with many saying it has helped them feel more confident supporting patients safely and appropriately."

Lewie Boyer from Project 93 said: "It's been great working with UHNM on the initiative.

"This project is about making sure people feel safe, accepted and able to be themselves wherever they go.

"Having a large organisation like UHNM involved makes a real difference locally and helps set the standard for others."

Gabi Holdsworth, personal assistant and UHNM LGBTQ+ network support, added: "There can still be barriers for some people when accessing healthcare, whether that's fear of discrimination or not feeling understood.

"This work is about breaking those barriers down so everyone feels safe and gets the care they need."

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