Equality , diversity and belonging community , the more I became aware of my own blind spots .
‘ For example , I realised that I consistently overlooked the needs of transgender and non-binary people in my occupational therapy practice . I am constantly learning and broadening my perspective , and only wish this group had existed earlier in my career .’
Despite rising reports of homophobia across the UK , there is still limited awareness of lesbophobia , biphobia and transphobia .
Laura ( she / her ) identifies as a bisexual cis-woman , and qualified in 2008 . She explains : ‘ Although I openly identify as LGBTQIA +, it ’ s not particularly visible in my personal and professional life , due to assumptions based on my relationship .
‘ Bisexual people are less likely to be “ out ” to colleagues and friends , and Bi identities are often dismissed , or met with harmful or inaccurate assumptions and stereotypes . Coming out in this context is something I ’ m still navigating on a regular basis . I have really valued having the support of the affinity group .
‘ We need to better recognise that bringing our authentic selves to work does not have to compromise our professionalism and can help us become better practitioners through more meaningful connections .
‘ Despite the inherent links between occupation , identity , and relationships , the profession has a long way to go to ensure that we are creating spaces for safe , meaningful , and inclusive conversations about all aspects of intimacy and relationships within our practice .’
So , what next ?
Our profession needs to understand intersectionality and evolve with a strong focus on equity . We need to create a space where we can all be our authentic selves , just as we are taught to do for our service users .
In order for that to occur , we need to reflect , ‘ unlearn ’ and learn . We all hold our own biases related to our lived experience and existing social conventions , and this shapes the way we work and interact with people in our practice . These internalised prejudices can affect how we relate to our own identity as well as others .
It is in our power as practitioners , friends and family members to provide safe spaces through actions and the questions we ask . We must keep moving along our allyship journeys . This in turn will help us address health inequalities for our communities .
Words RACHAEL DANIELS , Occupational Therapist . EVA EASTMAN , Occupational Therapy Student , LAURA OWERS , Senior Learning and Development Officer and Occupational Therapist , CLARISSA SØRLIE , Continuous Improvement Specialist and Occupational Therapist and ED SUM , Occupational Therapist and Co-chair of the RCOT Specialist Section – Neurological Practice .
Keep in touch . If you want to hear more or join future events , follow us on Twitter . You can also visit our website or send us an email for further information about how to get involved .
@ LGBTQIAOTUK . www . lgbtqiaot . co . uk . lgbtqiaplusot @ gmail . com . We need your help to continue to grow . If you have any skills you would like to share with the group please let us know .
Despite rising reports of homophobia across the UK , there is still limited awareness of lesbophobia , biphobia and transphobia .”
What you can do next on your allyship and learning journey :
Access information : read , listen , watch a wide range of learning resources . A friendly reminder that learning comes from many sources and that we need to hear from a diverse range of voices and stories in order to continue to learn . Prioritise listening to those with lived experience . Also explore learning materials outside of the health and social care profession . You can find a resource list via www . affinot . co . uk / lgbtqiaotuk to get you started .
Attend : look out for both formal and informal learning events , including the wide range of online webinars . Twitter and the ‘ Learn ’ events are a great place to start .
Reflect : reflection is a key part of our learning and allyship journeys . Discussion groups can provide a great opportunity for collective reflection and learning .
Join : we are always looking for more people to help support our activities whatever people are able to contribute . Get in touch to find out more !
Be an upstander : challenge microaggressions as you notice them . Listen , validate and provide a point of support for colleagues who tell you about their experiences ; create spaces for them to do this safely within your workplace settings .
Campaign : you can ‘ campaign ’ through small actions as well as the larger actions . Understand the needs of the community and advocate for LGBTQIA + rights . Important campaigns include gender recognition and banning conversion therapy .
February 2022 OTnews 23