The stories that we share with each other are powerful and important. They link us to our past, anchor us in our present and provide a pathway into the future. Our stories can transfer wisdom and provide inspiration and ideas for tackling tough times as well as moments to share and celebrate triumphs.
The stories that we choose to share both as individuals and as a community of practitioners are deeply necessary for our development as well as generating and cementing change.
We need stories to emotionally feel what others do, and engage our sense of empathy.
We need stories to combat isolation, so that we do not feel alone.
Recently, both men and women have come forward to share their experiences of sexual harassment in the workplace. Their personal stories have helped to shift our understanding of sexism and harassment; previously trivialised and dismissed as harmless 'banter', now recognised as an abuse of power and authority. These stories have highlighted the lack of accountability and paralysing sense of fear that can take over when we believe that our experiences mark us out as vulnerable and different.
Recent times have shown us that when harnessed properly, our personal stories and experiences can be transformative. The truth is that our experiences matter and are fundamental to shaping our life chances in the world of work and beyond. We need to find as many opportunities as possible to speak the truth and to change things for the better.
As part of the RCN London Inclusion Solution, we want employers to develop and build inclusive workplaces as a solution to the exclusion and disengagement felt by nursing and healthcare staff across the capital. An integral part of that process involves hearing your voices and learning about your experiences in the workplace and how leaders at all levels can collaborate to improve outcomes for you.
That’s why RCN London is inviting you to share your stories and experiences about inclusion at work. Perhaps you have experienced discrimination because of your age, gender, disability, race, sexual orientation, gender identity or your religion, faith or belief. Maybe you have experienced some form of exclusion because you were pregnant or on maternity leave? Whatever the cause, we want to hear from you. We will make sure that your personal details are kept safe and treated in confidence.
Your personal stories will provide an important reality check for our London Inclusion Solution initiative. They will help drive transformation across London in the long-term and I urge you to talk to us.
Share your story with us.
Jude Diggins, Regional Director
