South East Coast Ambulance Service expecting another strong turnout for Pride and LGBT conference

South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) is looking forward to another strong parade presence at this year’s Brighton and Hove Pride (Saturday 5 August).

The Trust will also host a conference organised by the National Ambulance LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender) Network at the Amex Stadium in Brighton the day before.

This year’s conference will focus on five key areas – Mental health needs of LGBT patients and staff, supporting trans colleagues, the health and support needs of older LGBT people, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and promoting dignity and respect.

The Trust also once again attended Trans Pride held in Brunswick Square, Brighton, on 22 July. While the weather brought the day to an earlier close than planned, dedicated staff and volunteers battled the elements with the Trust’s display including CPR demonstrations, in the second year the event has taken place.

SECAmb’s expects to have more than 100 staff, volunteers, friends and family, including Chief Executive Daren Mochrie, join Saturday’s parade.

SECAmb Operating Unit Manager, Will Bellamy, was recently elected as new Chair for the Pride in SECAmb staff network. He will serve alongside Deputy Chair Steph Meech, who will represent SECAmb in a ceremony to raise the Pride flag next week.

Will said: “Both Steph and I were honoured at being elected and we’re committed to ensuring SECAmb is a workplace that is open, supportive and promotes equal opportunity for LGBT staff. It’s a really busy time for the network ahead of Pride on 5 August. The Trust was pleased to once again attend Trans Pride and we’re looking forward to another successful conference. We’re expecting another great turnout for the parade. The support we receive is amazing and it always makes me very proud to be part of SECAmb.”