NHSScotland is determined to show progress in our support for the LGBT+ and minority-ethnic communities. LGBT stands for lesbian, gay, bi, trans and plus stands for all other sexual orientations, gender identities or expressions, and sexual characteristics.
The NHSScotland Pride badge reflects our promise to be inclusive to multiple identities that fall under LGBT+ and minority-ethnic banners and create a safer and more equal NHS for patients, people who use our services and staff alike.
Our commitment includes, but is not limited to, the trans community – represented by white, pink and blue chevrons – and people from visible minority-ethnic groups – represented by black and brown chevrons.
Visible symbols of support are important. They are signposts of safety.
Those wearing the badge are pledging their support as allies for people in the LGBT+ and minority-ethnic communities. It is a commitment to speak up and take action against transphobia, homophobia, biphobia and racism within the NHS, whether it's against patients, people who use their services or staff.
One-in-four LGBT+ people have faced discrimination in healthcare settings. This discrimination increases if someone identifies with more than one marginalised group, for example, gender or race.
Using our voices to stand against prejudice is something all of us can commit to.
As a badge-wearer, you pledge to be a listening friendly and responsive ear to people in need, signposting them to organisations and local contacts who can provide more specific assistance. Sometimes you may need to call out hate speech, report incidents of discrimination, or acts of verbal or physical abuse.
Pledging your commitment and wearing your badge proudly helps promote an inclusive and supportive environment across NHSScotland, whether you're straight, LGBT+, or from a minority-ethnic group, we can all demonstrate our support by pledging our commitment towards the NHSScotland Pride badge.
Wear your badge with pride as an ally to progress.
