Black History Month is a momentous occasion to recognise and celebrate the invaluable contributions of black people to British society. It also serves as an opportunity to inspire and empower future generations.

The NHS is the fifth largest employer in the world, with one in five workers of BAME heritage.

This month that allows us space to reflect on the contributions that black people make to the NHS and society every day. It is a month that reminds us that we should be learning every day about the lived realities of people from black communities to better understand how we can change the culture, reduce inequalities and stop the ongoing effects of racism and by default racism itself.

This year, Black History Month will be especially dedicated to honouring the achievements of black women who are often the forgotten heroines. We want to amplify their voices and challenge the systems that oppress them, to celebrate, please use the hashtag #WEMATTER.

At LSCft we are hosting a variety of events throughout October including a schwartz round, celebration events for all staff with a focus on staff who work nights, online learning sessions and free reiki healing sessions for staff across a number of sites.

To view the full calendar of staff events please visit the Trustnet news page.