News

Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust have launched the See ME First initiative within their organisation.

See ME First is a scheme to promote inclusivity and stand up against racism. It is recognised nationally and adopted by many NHS organisations.

As part of this initiative, staff are invited to take a personal pledge and wear the See ME First badge, a powerful visual symbol of their commitment to anti-racism and anti-discrimination.

By pledging, staff agree to uphold the values the badge represents. This includes taking steps to challenge inappropriate behaviour, speak up against discrimination, and guide others to the necessary support and information.

Samantha Boatema-Cooke, the Head of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (EDIE) at the Trust said, “Our participation in the SEE ME First initiative underlines our commitment to creating an environment where all staff feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work. The badge is a visible reminder of our pledge to uphold the Trust's values of inclusion and equality, and to ensure every voice is heard.”

The initiative is designed not only to improve the experiences of patients, families, and staff from all communities, but also to foster an environment of respect and safety within the Trust.

See ME First also forms part a bigger programme of work that continues to reaffirm the Trust’s commitment to being anti-racist.

John Devapriam, Deputy CEO and Chief Medical Officer, said, “We remain committed to creating a working environment where everyone is treated fairly and equally, free from discrimination or harassment. We want to reassure everyone, whether you’re a member of staff, NHS Bank employee, agency staff, student, or volunteer, that we will take a zero-tolerance approach to racism and discrimination.”

For more information about the Trust’s EDIE commitments, visit the Trust’s website.