The Aberfeldy Practice has become the first GP Surgery to achieve the GOLD award Pride in Practice accreditation, awarded by the LGBTQ+ Foundation. This recognition honors the practice's exceptional commitment to providing inclusive and supportive healthcare services to the LGBTQ+ community.
The Pride in Practice program, developed by the LGBTQ+ Foundation, sets rigorous standards for healthcare providers, ensuring they offer a welcoming and safe environment for LGBTQ+ patients. Achieving the GOLD accreditation is a testament to Aberfeldy Practice’s dedication to excellence in patient care and its proactive approach to understanding and addressing the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Dr Sophie Von Heimendahl, Co-chair, Greener Practice, North London, GP and Clinical Champion of the programme at the Practice, expressed her gratitude for the accolade: “We are thrilled to receive the GOLD Pride in Practice accreditation. This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where every patient feels respected and valued. We will continue to work hard to ensure our services meet the diverse needs of our community.”
The Aberfeldy Practice is the first of many practices who will be accredited this year. Tower Hamlets Together has commissioned and is supporting Practices with funding to access the programme across the borough with the goal of becoming the first borough in London to have all General Practices accredited by 2025.
The Aberfeldy Practice’s achievements include implementing comprehensive staff training on LGBTQ+ issues, ensuring inclusive patient registration processes, and creating a welcoming space for all patients. These initiatives not only improve healthcare experiences but also promote equality and acceptance within the broader community.
Recognition from the LGBTQ+ Foundation underscores the importance of supporting LGBTQ+ communities through inclusive healthcare. Access to knowledgeable and compassionate care is crucial in addressing health disparities and ensuring the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
-
Pride in Practice is a quality assurance and social prescribing program that supports healthcare providers to effectively meet the needs of their LGBTQ+ patients. The program offers training, accreditation, and ongoing support to help providers deliver inclusive and equitable care.
