Midlands–North-West constituency MEP Maria Walsh will launch the start of Pride month at University Hospital Galway at 2pm tomorrow (Friday ). An information stand will be located in the main foyer of the hospital from 1pm to 2pm as part of the launch.
The event will highlight a month of educational talks focused on inclusion and diversity for both LGBT+ patients and staff. Members of the public attending the hospital for appointments on the day are also welcome.
Orla Sheil, an occupational therapist at the hospital and a member of the hospitals’ Pride working group, said Pride month is an opportunity to increase awareness of healthcare issues and to educate staff about services available to LGBT+ patients.
“While there has been significant progress in Ireland to reduce discrimination against the LGBT+ community, more work needs to be done. Pride month is a time to both celebrate LGBT+ diversity and educate healthcare workers.
“Many people in Ireland still feel afraid to disclose their sexual or gender identity. During the month of June we will be distributing rainbow lanyards to staff to wear with their work ID badges. By choosing to wear the rainbow lanyard, staff can show that Galway University Hospitals offer non-judgmental and inclusive care for all who identity as LGBT+.”
She said research has shown that healthcare staff wearing a rainbow lanyard helps to actively break down barriers that LGBT+ people may face while accessing healthcare or while at work.
“In Ireland 75 per cent of LGBT+ people feel that healthcare providers lack knowledge and sensitivity to LGBT+ issues with almost 50 per cent seeking LGBT+ friendly clinicians because of negative experiences. This is something we aim to improve.
“During June, we will also encourage staff to complete the HSE’s online educational course ‘LGBT+ awareness and inclusions – the basics’. The positive impact of enhancing staff education and wearing a rainbow lanyard should not be underestimated.”
One mother who recently attend the emergency department with her son said: “I must say it was so lovely to see the doctor wear a rainbow lanyard. Visibility matters. As a concerned parent, it felt reassuring that I didn’t feel like I had to worry about our family status being questioned.”
For further information on LGBT+ sexual identity and orientation, including supports, go to hse.ie -https://www2.hse.ie/wellbeing/mental-health/lgbti-sexual-identity-and-orientation.html
