RCOT Pride banner for local events created with LGBTQIA+ members
Every Body. Every Identity. Every Story.
RCOT members taking part in Pride events will soon be able to request use of a new RCOT Pride banner.
Join the LGBTQIA+ Network on RCOT Communities to get regular updates and coordinate requests with other members once the banner is produced.
The network is open to everyone offering support and allyship to the LGBTQIA+ community.
Inclusive, visible and welcoming
In collaboration with our LGBTQIA+ Expert Advisory group, members of the LGBTQIA+ network on RCOT Communities and members of staff, the banner has been created to help members represent the role of occupational therapy in people’s lives at Pride events in a way that feels inclusive, visible and welcoming.
It offers a clear public-facing message that reflects occupational therapy’s role in enabling people to live the life they want – whoever they are, wherever they come from and however they identify – as well as RCOT’s commitment to belonging across the profession and beyond.
The wording has been chosen carefully to make sure it‘s accessible to a broad audience and supportive of members using the banner in public spaces. For members attending Pride events, it’s important that the message on the banner feels clear, confident and safe to display.
At the heart of the banner is a message of inclusion
‘Every body’ recognises and celebrates each individual.
‘Every identity’ affirms the many ways people define and express themselves.
‘Every story’ creates space for lived experience, personal perspective and voices from across our profession’s diverse community and those of the people we support.
‘Every story’
That final phrase is especially important. ‘Every story’ reflects the value of listening to one another and recognising the richness people bring to the profession and the communities they serve.
It opens up opportunities to celebrate lived experiences, amplify voices that may not always be heard and continue building a culture where people feel seen, valued and included.
More than a banner
This is more than a banner for an event. It’s a visible expression of a commitment to inclusion and belonging, and an invitation to keep learning from each other.
Whether members are attending a Pride event for the first time or have been involved for years, the banner helps create a shared presence that reflects the values of OT.
Join the network that made it happen
Members who would like to request the banner for a Pride event should join the LGBTQIA+ Network on RCOT Communities. The network offers a space for connection, shared experiences and support, and is the route through which members can find out more about using the banner at their event.
The LGBTQIA+ network is one of five Equity, Diversity and Belonging (EDB) networks on the RCOT Communities platform. Others include:
- Disability
- Carers
- Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (B.A.M.E)
- Interfaith
All our EDB networks are open to everyone.
Representing OT at a Pride event?
If you’ll be representing RCOT at Pride this year, join the network, look for further details once the banner is produced and share your photos with us so we can celebrate your story.