LGBTQ+ History Month 2022

01 Feb 22

February is LGBTQ+ history month and a time where we celebrate and shine a spotlight on our very own LGBTQ+ staff and the work they do across the Trust!

As part of our commitment to equality and diversity, we have many internal networks to support the wonderfully diverse range of people who make up the HPFT family and our wider community. One of these key groups is the Outlook Staff Network, a network for staff who identify as being part of the LGBTQ+ community. The Outlook Staff Network is a safe space for LGBTQ+ staff to come together with their peers and talk about the things that matter to them, from raising issues or concerns, connecting with colleagues from across all areas of the organisation, gain support with any challenges they might be experiencing, share good practice, but most importantly, to work together and play a vital part in shaping HPFT to be the best it can be for everyone, staff and service users alike.

The Outlook Staff Network play a vital role in the Trust of raising the profile and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues for staff and service users, and has hosted a broad selection of guest speakers from various organisations including the UK’s leading HIV and AIDS charity, the Terrence Higgins Trust. Members regularly present at HPFT internal conferences, most recently at an event to mark International Day against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, an Equality and Diversity meeting, and as part of the Equality Diversity and Human Rights staff network meeting. Externally, Outlook Staff Network members regularly work alongside peers in other organisations across Hertfordshire to assist with LGBTQ+ issues.

Embracing difference is at the centre of our values, and as part of our commitment to providing training for clinical staff, the Outlook Network advises staff delivering the HPFT simulation hub training to ensure that LGBTQ+ risk factors are acknowledged and understood, so that when staff return to their areas of work, they know how best to support the needs of their LGBTQ+ service users. Members also work closely alongside the Freedom to Speak Up Guardian in helping to support services to ensure LGBTQ+ staff and service users’ needs are considered and met where necessary.

Outlook Staff Network Chair, Tiany Hynes said:

“I’m really proud of the work we have completed so far, but there is so much more to do. Our work as a network is important to help LGBTQ+ staff feel safe and able to seek support, and by providing this support and education across the organisation we want to empower all HPFT staff to improve both staff and service user wellbeing.”

At HPFT, we want everyone to feel able to be their authentic selves, and are incredibly proud of the work the Outlook Staff Network is doing to help create an inclusive environment for our LGBTQ+ community. If you would like to find out more about our work and commitment to equality and diversity, please visit here for more information.

Related Pages

LGBTQ+ History Month 2022