Published on 14 November 2023
This week is Transgender Awareness Week, an opportunity to celebrate, support, learn, share and advocate.
One of the most important parts of being a trans ally is education, whether you’re growing your own knowledge or as a workplace we are on the trans and gender diverse allyship journey.
To support this, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion team is this week introducing education sessions on understanding sex, gender and gender diversity, pronouns and inclusive language. Inclusion is all of our responsibility, and I am so pleased that these education programs are being offered to Western Health staff. I encourage everyone to get in touch with the team and register to participate in these sessions.
Globally, trans and gender diverse communities are disproportionately affected by prejudice-motivated discrimination and violence. This is also prevalent in a healthcare setting, and we want to do better. There is a lack of understanding of healthcare needs and preferences for trans people and, worryingly, an avoidance of seeking emergency medical care due to being trans or gender diverse.
At Western Health, these experiences are unacceptable and we are committed to providing a safe environment, with appropriate care and access to quality healthcare without stigma, judgement or discrimination.
Take the time this week to read the resources we have available on the Westerly, ask questions and learn more. We can all contribute to removing barriers and ensure we are providing a safe and inclusive environment for patients and staff to feel supported to be their authentic selves.
