NHS staff across Coventry and Warwickshire reclaim their narratives for Black History Month
Black History Month took place during October and was a time to reflect on the enormous contributions that Black staff make to the NHS. This year’s theme was ‘reclaiming narratives’, to emphasise the need to recognise and correct the narratives of Black history and shine a light on the untold success stories and complexity of Black heritage.
Led by Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT), Black NHS colleagues across Coventry and Warwickshire came together to celebrate the thriving Black community that makes up its workforce. In collaboration with Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT) and George Elliot Hospital, a series of online sessions were held where staff spoke about their unique journeys and how their experiences help to support the diverse community of patients across the region.
Talks were also arranged to educate staff on how to support patients, with speakers discussing topics such as how to care for Afro hair and what make-up works best on Black skin.
Mel Coombes, Chief Executive Officer at CWPT, said: “Black History Month was an important occasion to shine a light on the amazing contributions Black staff give to CWPT and the NHS more widely. The celebrations that took place were a great chance to highlight how the diverse range of skillsets from our staff help support the communities we serve.
We are committed to ensuring all voices are heard, regardless of background. Our educational talks are just one example of how we are continually striving to support our Black service users and increase the culturally inclusive care we give.”
Rano Bains, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at CWPT, said: “Celebrating the diversity of our workforce is important to us all year around, not just during Black History Month. This year’s approach to Black History Month highlights our commitment to culturally inclusive care by collaborating across the system to give a voice to the thriving Black community across the whole of Coventry and Warwickshire. It was inspiring to hear all the amazing stories that colleagues had to share.”