Community Trust Improves Stonewall Rating

A community NHS Trust in Lincolnshire has been rated as one of the most inclusive places to work in the UK. 

Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) has jumped 123 places in the latest Stonewall guide of the most inclusive employers in the UK.

LCHS is now ranked 196 out of 415 on the definitive list showcasing the best employers for lesbian, gay, bi and transgender staff.

Speaking about improvements the Trust has made Rachel Higgins, Quality Governance Manager for Patient Experience and Equality & Diversity at LCHS said: "We've promoted and built upon our LGBT network in collaboration with Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, who are currently ranked 124 in the index. We attended Lincoln Pride and have our LGBT conference coming up which is being led by the network and will allow for an ever growing voice within the Trust. 

"I'm ecstatic that we have risen 123 places in such a short space of time and hope the rise continues next year. We have further plans in place including a new transgender policy. It would be fantastic to crack the top 100 overall and become a top five NHS Trust in the country."

Stonewall's Diversity Champions programme aims to create a working environment where lesbian, gay, bi and transgender staff feel comfortable and represented.

Zoe Rowë, Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust's Associate Director of Nursing and Quality and LGBT senior visible leader said: "We are extremely pleased to be working with Lincolnshire partners in this work to raise awareness, skills and understanding in best meeting the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender patients and staff. Our arrangements include a multi-agency LGBT event on February 11, during LGBT History Month which is open to all public and voluntary sector staff."

LCHS registered to The Workplace Equality Index and demonstrated their performance against a set of best practice criteria and are delighted with the significant improvement seen over the last 12 months.