Navajo Merseyside & Cheshire Chartermark Annual Awards 2022

In early October, MSB joined Tony Griffin and the rest of the Navajo family in congratulating the organisations that have been reassessed and reaccredited with the inclusivity chartermark, and we welcomed those who have passed their first assessment. As a chartermark, Navajo is a signifier of good practice, commitment and knowledge of the specific needs, issues and barriers facing LGBTIQA+ people in Merseyside and Cheshire.

Every October we look forward to a joyous afternoon with like-minded organisations from across the region, who are committed to putting inclusivity for the LGBTIQA+ community at the top of the agenda. Following the 2021 Awards Ceremony which focused on the work of organisations improving services and employment opportunities for the younger generation, it seemed only fitting that this year’s theme invited those in the Care and End-of-Life sector to join the Navajo family.

Healthcare providers and hospices from across the region were awarded the Navajo chartermark and shared how important it was to all of them that they “get it right” with regards to inclusivity. Members of the LGBTIQA+ community will often remember their “coming out”, whether a positive or negative experience, as a momentous occasion in their life. All of us who attended the awards ceremony this year had the opportunity to reflect on how important it is that those in care aren’t made to feel as if they have to come out again when in old age or ill health, or even worse – go back “in the closest”. For those working in the End-of-Life and Palliative care sector, it was really moving to hear how they understood they only have one chance to get it right with each of their patients and residents, so were even more committed to inclusivity training and practices.

The audience heard from guest speaker AJ Jackson, former Wheelchair Basketball Paralympian who now dedicates their time to training and coaching Wheelchair Basketball, working as a counsellor and motivational speaker. In simple terms, AJ explained how each of us as individuals have a part to play in supporting the community and how it really is the little things that make a difference to someone needing support and acceptance when they feel most vulnerable.

We were delighted to support our client Magenta Living in receiving their first accreditation. A lot of work goes into the interview and assessment process, which we know all too well, and it was lovely to have the opportunity to congratulate the team in person.

MSB has received the Navajo Merseyside & Cheshire Chartermark for LGBTIQA+ inclusivity, passing reassessment year upon year. We recognise many of the issues that the trans community face are societal barriers that we can help to breakdown.

Michael Boland, a family solicitor at MSB, offers a free legal name change service for those in the trans community at a time when they are ready to take that next step in their transition journey. If you need support or advice, please get in touch.