PHA launches e-learning programme challenging attitudes to LGB&T during Belfast PRIDE week

As part of Belfast PRIDE 2013 the Public Health Agency (PHA) is launching a new e-learning programme to help raise awareness and understanding of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGB&T) issues in the workplace.

Developed in partnership with Aurion Learning, a leading e-learning and development solutions provider, the online programme, entitled ‘Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Creating Inclusive Workplaces’, will support the PHA in helping to address health and social wellbeing inequalities whilst enabling staff members to safely explore LGB&T issues in a confidential and secure way. 

Speaking about the new training programme, Deirdre McNamee, Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement Officer, PHA, said: “We worked with the Southern Health and Social Care Trust and members of LGB&T sector organisations in developing this programme. It aims to educate staff so that they better understand the difference between sexual orientation and gender identity and its equality implications. 

“This programme, which is applicable to all workplaces, will help staff to recognise the barriers associated with disclosure of sexual orientation and/or gender identity in the workplace and understand how LGB&T awareness within the workplace can help create a more welcoming, safe and productive work environment.”

Matthew McDermott, Policy and Advocacy Manager with The Rainbow Project, said: “It is important that employers take steps to foster safe and welcoming environments for LGB&T staff. Workplaces produce the best services or products using the knowledge, skills and contributions of their entire workforce. The very best employers create a culture where all staff, including LGB&T staff, can be themselves and be open about who they are. This enables all staff to form better relationships, enjoy going to work and demonstrate improved productivity.

“This e-Learning module is a great resource and the Public Health Agency should be commended for their forward thinking and commitment to these issues.”

Dr Maureen Murphy, Managing Director of Aurion Learning said: “We are really pleased to collaborate with the PHA as they continue to create an outstanding, inclusive working environment. The online programme offers flexibility and efficiency to the Agency by enabling staff working across a range of Health and Social Care organisations and other settings the flexibility to engage in ongoing learning and development at a time that suits them and their personal circumstances; whilst minimising the cost of face-to-face training.”

During Belfast PRIDE 2013 the PHA will be promoting the e-learning programme to all staff within the organisation.