Rainbow badges – message of inclusion

FLYING THE FLAG

HSE Rainbow Badge initiative sends message of inclusion

Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) have launched their HSE Rainbow Badge, an initiative that aims to make a positive di erence by promoting a message of inclusion.

The Rainbow Badge, unveiled as the annual Dublin Pride festival was being celebrated, gives sta a way to show that their place of work o ers open, nonjudgmental and inclusive care for children, young people, families and sta who identify as LGBTI+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex; the + simply means inclusive of all identities, regardless of how people defi ne themselves).

LGBTI+ young people are often exploring their own sense of self and identity. Despite improving social attitudes in general towards LGBTI+ people in Ireland, negative attitudes, such as homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, are still widely prevalent.

Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are more common in young people who identify as LGBTI+, with fi gures showing that more than half of Irish LGBTI+ young people self-harm; two in three seriously consider suicide; and tragically one in three have attempted suicide. Many young people still feel afraid to disclose their sexual or gender identity and to ‘come out’ – being unable to do so limits our ability in providing the medical care they need.

Welcoming the initiative, Eilísh Hardiman, Chief Executive, CHI, explained that simple visible symbols, such as the Rainbow Badge, can make a big di erence for those unsure of both themselves and the reception they may receive if they disclose their sexuality and/or gender identity.

“Many young LGBTI+ people say they do not have an adult they can turn to or confi de in. As advocates, sta who work across CHI can play a key role in making things better,” she said.

Dani Hall, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine, CHI, and the Rainbow Badge Lead, said, “Visibility still matters; this badge shows that our sta are here to listen and help LGBTI+ young people and families. But the model is more than just the badge; it’s a model that emphasises the substance behind the symbol, with the emphasis on education for sta , responsibility and support.

“Wearing a badge is only one step towards overcoming healthcare inequalities but with increasing awareness and education we can start to overcome barriers to healthcare for LGBTI+ young people in Ireland.”

CEO Paul Reid voiced his praise for the initiative. “We are committed to creating a positive working environment for all sta . I am constantly blown away by the compassion, care and resilience of the sta in our health service and as an organisation I feel it’s critical that we show our sta compassion through our inclusive actions. This rainbow badge initiative is a great example of the great compassion and care shown everyday by our sta .

“All employees inclusive of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, responsibilities for dependents, age, disability, and geographic location should feel respected, valued and supported to reach their full potential.

“When we value the role that everyone plays, we deliver a better service for our patients and continue our goal to build the trust and confi dence of our key stakeholders including the public, government and sta ,” he said.

At the launch of the Rainbow Badge initiative at CHI were (left to right): Eilísh Hardiman, Chief Executive, CHI; Dr Dani Hall, Consultant in Paediatric Emergency Medicine and Rainbow Badge Clinical Lead; Warren O’Brien, CNM 3, Quality Department, CHI; and Tracey Wall, Acting Chief Director of Nursing, CHI.