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Health and care staff unite against discrimination with diversity campaign

The campaign started on World Day for Cultural Diversity and it aims to celebrate diversity in the workforce and stand against discrimination.

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Health and care professionals across the Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Integrated Care System (ICS) have launched the ‘Everyone Belongs Here’ campaign. 

The campaign started on World Day for Cultural Diversity today, 21st May, and it aims to celebrate diversity in the workforce and stand against discrimination.

The campaign was developed by NHS staff, local councils, and partner organisations. 

It builds on efforts to improve reporting of discrimination and to monitor these reports. 

The focus is on respect, inclusion and compassion in health and care.

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Vanessa Whatley, executive lead for equality, diversity and inclusion and chief nursing officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “Everyone Belongs Here’ is grounded in our values. It champions kindness, celebrates difference, and recognises the vital role every member of our team plays.

“We believe in inclusion. We are proud to have a workforce that reflects many backgrounds and cultures – among our colleagues, hundreds bring with them heritage and experience from outside the UK. 

“Their diverse perspectives enrich the care we provide every day.”

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Rhia Boyode, chief people officer for the Shrewsbury and Telford NHS Trust and Shropshire Community NHS Trust, said: “Our people are at the heart of everything we do. They answer phones, serve meals, deliver care, lead teams – and they do so with unwavering dedication. 

“Every day, staff of all backgrounds show up to care for others. That’s what makes our health and care system so strong.

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“We stand united in the belief that diversity is our strength. Every individual – regardless of race, gender, religion, disability, sexual orientation or background – deserves to be treated with respect, dignity and fairness.”

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Boyode added: “We hope this campaign will create a meaningful and lasting impact – not just for our staff, but also for patients and the wider public.”

As the campaign rolls out, its message will appear in NHS, council and community sites across the county. 

The public is encouraged to reflect on what it means to belong and to bring these values into their dealings with health and care staff.

Whatley added: “Discrimination of any kind has no place in our services. We are taking clear, decisive steps to protect and support our workforce, including robust policies and close work with partners such as the police to address racism and all forms of abuse or harassment.

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“The ‘Everyone Belongs Here’ campaign is a clear statement of intent: to create a health and care system that is a beacon of compassion, safety and belonging for everyone.”

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