Local health providers and councils north of Melbourne are gathering together next week for a summit that will explore how organisations can become employers of choice for LGBTIQA+ people creating safe places for them to work.
Beyond the Rainbow Lanyard is an initiative of Pride in the North, a partnership of 11 organisations including Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health, DPV Health, and local councils.
The Summit will feature a program of speakers including the Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ communities, Dr Todd Fernando, LGBTIQA+ rights campaigner, Jac Tomlins and author and CEO of Rural Pride, Daniel Witthaus.
Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health cheif executive, Julie Landy said she is proud to support an event of such importance to the community.
“We are proudly rainbow tick accredited and we know the importance of having local and
accessible LGBTIQA+ inclusive services and healthcare so people can feel safe, healthy and celebrated in their local communities,” she said.
With funding from state government and VicHealth, the Summit seeks to unite businesses,
community organisations, healthcare professionals, governments, teachers and other influential stakeholders, committed to making a positive impact on LGBTIQA+ people’s health and wellbeing.
DPV chief executive Don Tidbury recognised that members of the LGBTIQA+ community in outer suburban areas report poorer health and wellbeing outcomes than their inner suburban peers.
“They are also less likely to have access to inclusive services or opportunities for social
connection, he said.”
“We hope that the rich program of the Summit will inspire attendees on their own journey towards creating safe and inclusive spaces for the LGBTIQA+ community in Melbourne’s outer North.”
The event will take place on Friday November 3 from 9amat the Plenty Ranges Arts and Convention Centre in South Morang.
Free tickets: www.pracc.com.au/tickets/pride-in-the-north-summit-beyond-the-rainbow-lanyard
Gerald Lynch
