Colleagues from Medway Maritime Hospital proudly took part in the LGBTQIA+ Medway Pride parade on Saturday 17 August, through Rochester, joining in with the vibrant, festival atmosphere.
Hundreds of people took part in the parade and they were cheered on by large crowds that stood along the route. The parade was supported by local musicians, bands, dancers, local community groups, companies and organisations.
Members of the hospital’s active LGBTQIA+ staff network took part in the parade, which ended in the castle gardens, alongside nursing, non-clinical and Executive team colleagues.
Gavin MacDonald, Chief Delivery Officer and member of LGBTQIA+ staff network, Medway NHS Foundation Trust said: “As an inclusive employer and healthcare provider, we felt it important to once again join the parade to celebrate Medway Pride.
“A large number of people waved and cheered us on and it was reassuring to see and hear the warmth of feeling for the NHS.”
Medway NHS Foundation Trust’s participation in the parade demonstrates the Trust’s commitment to being an inclusive and supportive employer, and a safe and respectful healthcare provider.
Alison Davis, Chief Medical Officer, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, added: “We all had a wonderful time, representing our hospital.”
We are proud of our diverse community, and seek to reflect it in our staff and in the quality of our care.
The NHS promises to be a safe environment for the everyone, including LGBTQIA+ communities.
Medway Maritime Hospital uses the NHS Rainbow Badge Scheme, so individual members of staff can demonstrate to patients that they have a personal commitment to LGBTQIA+ patients. The scheme provides additional information and online resources to help them demonstrate their commitment.
Watch a video capturing our participation in this year’s parade on our social media accounts.
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