Panel member urges LGBTQIA+ community to help transform south London research
A CRN South London Inclusivity Panel member is urging the LGBTQIA+ community to help transform research as part of Pride Month.
Neil Christian Baulita is a Senior Sexual Health Advisor at the South West London Sexual Health Service.
The Inclusivity Panel will work to ensure south London research is inclusive and representative of the local population.
Neil said the Inclusivity Panel offers a vital opportunity to deliver lasting change for the people of south London. He said:
"I am beyond excited to be part of CRN South London's Inclusivity Panel so that we can be a positive force in giving advice and engaging with the board on all matters relating to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).
"We need to let everyone know that they are welcome in research. Inclusivity in research is crucial if we are to provide a safe space for everyone to participate in studies and transform research outcomes. I want to empower all LGBTQIA+ people, as we need to hear their voices and their lived experiences, and they need to be seen.
"My message to the LGBTQIA+ community is: You have a chair at this big table of inclusivity. Only by taking that space in the chair can we share your rainbow colour in all stages of our research."
June is Pride month - a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide.
CRN South London's EDI Lead Chifundo Stubbs: "I'm delighted to have Neil as an ally on our Inclusivity Panel. We have a lot to do, but I know with the group's support, we will achieve some really exciting things together for our communities.
"On behalf of the Network, I'd also like to wish everyone a wonderful, joyous pride and thank the LGBTQIA+ community for supporting vital health and care research."
If you would like to learn more about our Inclusivity Panel's work, please email crnsouthlondon@nihr.ac.uk.
