Transgender Awareness Week: building inclusion in healthcare
From 12–19 November, Transgender Awareness Week highlights the stories and experiences of transgender and non-binary people. It is a moment to learn, listen and act so that clinics, practices and hospitals feel safe and respectful for everyone.
Why this week matters
Many transgender and non-binary patients still face barriers in accessing care. Stigma, inconsistent processes and gaps in understanding can delay treatment and harm wellbeing. Awareness leads to better practice and better outcomes.
Inclusive care is not complicated. It starts with dignity, accurate information and consistent, respectful communication at every touchpoint.
Practical steps for inclusive clinics
Use names and pronouns correctly. Train front-of-house teams and include fields on forms so patients are not misgendered.
Audit your environment. Signage, leaflets and digital forms should reflect diverse identities. Provide clear privacy options at reception.
Standardise pathways. Make it easy to record affirmed details and share only what is clinically relevant.
Show visible allyship. Small cues like pride pins or posters signal safety and invite conversation.
Culture, comfort and confidence
Uniforms communicate more than role. Warm colours and comfortable fabrics can reduce perceived barriers and help patients feel at ease. At Happythreads we offer scrubs that support long shifts and compassionate care, so teams can focus on people first.
“Inclusive healthcare starts with listening. When every patient and customer feels respected, care becomes truly transformative.”
– Happythreads Community Message
Discover colourful scrubs at Happythreads
Ways to show support this week
- Run a short team briefing on pronouns, record-keeping and respectful language.
- Update intake forms so patients can share affirmed name and gender.
- Signpost resources from trusted organisations and local services.
- Invite feedback so patients can tell you what is working and what is not.
Transgender Awareness Week is a chance to strengthen trust and equity in care. Small, consistent actions build safer spaces for everyone.
Read more: Empowering Transgender Care – Interview with Paige Behan
