International Women's Day (IWD) is a global celebration of the achievements of women and marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality.
Research shows that women are well represented in health and long-term care professions (Kingsfund), with approximately the figure being 80% of women across the health and social care workforce.
This year’s International Women’s Day is #EmbraceEquity, focused on a number of missions to help forge a gender equal world. Celebrating women's achievements and increasing visibility, while calling out inequality, is key.
The Keeping Well North West London Team is made up of ten women, some members share their thoughts:
Monica, Assistant Psychologist says: “Working in health and social care as a woman means a lot to me as it involves supporting and uplifting other women. It is also amazing to see all the hard work and dedication other females in the sector have for their work.”
Rhiannon, Assistant Psychologist says: "Working in health and social care as a woman means to me carrying on the female legacy that so many women working in care had to fight to create before me, and using that legacy to ensure health and social care environments are welcoming and safe for anyone and everyone."
Imogen, Senior Comms and Engagement Officer says: "All women deserve to be celebrated! I believe it's important to positively represent women in any role, sector or business. Especially in health and social care environments lets celebrate the amazing women delivering care and compassion every day."
Marreyah, CBT Therapist says: "My time working in the NHS over the last 9 years has allowed me to work with some amazing, strong women that I have looked up to and I am in awe of the fantastic work they are doing. This has encouraged me to emulate the care and compassion they have when working with others and use this when working with other women whether they are staff or clients."
Kala, Assistant Psychologist says: "I feel very proud and grateful to be working in a field that has so many incredible woman to learn from and look up too. It’s incredibly important for women to feel encouraged and valued in their roles in the NHS, not just on women’s day but every day. I hope each women is able to recognize their unique contribution to making their workplace what it is, each and every day."
Pragna, Lead Administrator says: "“Working in health and social care as a woman means a lot to me as our emotions, compassion and our hearts are what distinguish us from the rest and to uplift other women in the process and to empower them. It is amazing to see all the dedication of a woman fulfilling different roles both professionally and personally.”
Barinder, CBT Therapist says: "“Working in the NHS as a woman, it is a privilege to work in an environment that allows the opportunity to support and make a positive impact on people’s lives. It is also encouraging to see and be a part of the increased conversation about women in the NHS, highlighting the importance of creating more inclusive, supportive spaces for women to thrive."
Women’s health self-help resources
We have a range of information and resources relating to issues that, in the main, affect women:
- Pregnancy and maternity wellbeing
- Endometriosis
- Menopause and perimenopause
- Maternity trauma and loss care service support