LGBT+ survey results

Dear all

I recently wrote to you all regarding the results of a survey we commissioned on the working lives of colleagues from a Black or Minority Ethnic (BME) background. You will, no doubt, have seen the media coverage of this survey.

Soon after that research was underway, we commissioned surveys of colleagues who identify as:

• LGBT+
• and those who are living with a disability or neurodiversity.

 

I am now able to share these results of LGBT+ survey with you all.

I am pleased to say that we received a high response from colleagues at 65%. Thank you to everyone who took part. 72% of respondents report that they consider the Trust to be: ‘A modern and inclusive organisation, which recognises and embraces people of all sexual orientations and different gender identities.

However, we still have much further to go in making our Trust an inclusive environment for everyone. The key areas to improve include:

• Only 22% of respondents felt that complaints or concerns raised within EEAST were taken seriously and not dismissed, trivialised, or explained away.
• There is no EEAST LGBT+ Policy framework which can lead to a lack of support for colleagues.
• In some locations, the Trust lacks welfare, and facilities for LGBT+ colleagues
• Ignorance among colleagues can lead to discrimination.
• There is a lack of allyship and support for LGBT+ colleagues.
• People feel there is a lack of awareness leading to discrimination and the use of inappropriate nicknames, terminology, and language.

 

We have a three-year plan to make EEAST a more inclusive place to work and have a skilled team in the Strategy, Culture and Education Directorate to drive forward this plan. The plan includes:

• Developing guidance on acceptable language.
• A portal to report unacceptable language or behaviour.
• Including LGBT+ modules as part of induction.
• Introduce digital evaluation of all training events.
• Joining just 5% of UK employers and introducing a new Transgender & Non-Binary Equality Policy which has been reviewed by a number of our trans and non-binary LGBT+ network members. 
• Reviewing our existing policies to ensure LGBT+ representation and LGBT+ needs are considered throughout.
• Making our new estate more accessible to staff and visitors who have a disability, need a religious or private space or are transgender or non-binary.

 

We need all colleagues to play their part in this. If you see any discriminatory behaviours, or if you have been affected by these reports, please speak out and formally report any behaviours so that these can be fully investigated and acted upon.

You can report this behaviour via:

• Caroline Nwadu, Head of Culture, and Inclusivity
• Freedom Speak Up Guardian or local champion.
• Your local cultural inclusion agent
• Your manager
• OCE EEAST

 

Kind Regards,

Tom Abell

Chief Executive

Office of the Chief Executive
East of England Ambulance Service

Published 1st June 2023