The event, which was held in the Education Centre at Royal Preston Hospital, focussed on highlighting the importance of Black History Month – celebrating the contributions of black individuals throughout history. Alongside speeches from the Mayor and executives, it also featured cultural performances, exhibitions, and discussions on black history and its impact on local communities.
One of the highlights of the event was a local dance group that performed a routine showcasing the vibrant spirit of Caribbean dance. The group's performance served as a reminder of the amazing culture in the black community as well as the contributions of black people throughout time that have helped shape the world we live in today.
Naomi Duggan, Director of Communications and Engagement at the Trust, was delighted to attend and talk at the event. She said: "Our colleagues come from many different backgrounds, and it is these differences that we have been celebrating, alongside recognising how important it is to learn and acknowledge what black people in history did to make sure our black community is recognised in the way it is today.”
As an Executive I’m always inspired by other leaders, and this year’s theme of Saluting our sisters has highlighted some of these exceptional women. However, it’s not just these famous figures that I’ve been acknowledging, as I’ve also seen the fantastic work our black community do at the Trust to support and educate, helping colleagues to discuss important topics on our EDI agenda.”
Ailsa Brotherton, Executive Director of Improvement, Research and Innovation was also in attendance and was delighted with the success of the event. She said: "We are listening as an executive team to your stories so we can learn and ensure going forward we excel in being an inclusive organisation. It is important to remember that supporting individuality isn't only for one month, and we should work together to strive for equality and fairness for all."
Alongside the event, the Trust has also been marking Black History Month throughout October, with workshops to educate as well as a culturally appropriate menu on offer at the on-site restaurants. The Trust libraries were also involved, offering books on Race Equality for colleagues to learn more.
Rachel Kilminster, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Officer at the Trust helped to organise the ceremony. She said: "The event was a great success and is a testament to all the hard work and dedication our EDI colleagues and Ethnicity Ambassador Forum Chairs do to help promote equality and diversity at the Trust."
"Our EDI strategy is one of our key priorities to ensure that we as a Trust are consciously inclusive towards our colleagues, patients and our communities. I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to attend last week's event, it was great to see some familiar faces as well as chat to new ones about the importance of raising awareness of months such as this."
The Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) team at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals has an unrivalled commitment to creating a workplace that embraces and celebrates diversity. A key part of the Trust’s commitment is to foster an environment where colleagues, patients, their friends and families, from all backgrounds, can coexist - free from discrimination, inequalities, unfairness and prejudice. Through ongoing training and awareness campaigns, they aim to eliminate any barriers or biases that may exist within the organisation.
Following the event, the EDI team will be planning for future awareness days and initiatives, making sure that all colleagues, patients and the community, are celebrated and recognised for their individuality and differences.
