Black History Month: "We have far more in common that unites us than that which divides us."

As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, we have a unique opportunity to bring about meaningful change.

The theme ‘Reclaiming Narratives’ encourages everyone, regardless of ethnicity, to participate in highlighting how our stories are told and celebrated. This goes beyond recognition; it’s about amplifying our voices, honouring our experiences, and celebrating the contributions of those who have shaped our communities. Together, we can foster a richer understanding of black history for current and future generations.

This week, we had a chat with Lauren Lewis, Induction Facilitator and Pastoral Support Officer South West Division, to find out more about her career journey, what Black History Month means to her, challenges faced as a BAME staff member and her role models.

Career background

I qualified as an Adult Nurse in 2012 and spent four years in a variety of acute staff nurse roles in the NHS and private sector.

I transitioned to community nursing joining the School Nursing Team as a Community Staff Nurse for two and a half years, then joined CLCH to complete my Specialist Community Public Health School Nurse (SCPHN) training in Hammersmith and Fulham. I remained in the team in a SCPHN School Nurse post for three years. I left Hammersmith and Fulham to join the Brent Looked After Children (LAC) team.

As part of my CPD I qualified as a Professional Nurse Advocate (PNA) in 2022, this led me to become a Wellbeing Ambassador for the Trust.

Currently I work in the pilot role of Induction Facilitator and Pastoral Support Officer, using my PNA for the South West division. I support new staff during the first six months in their new roles and collaborate corporately to facilitate a successful induction to the Trust, division and/or role.

What does Black History Month and the theme Reclaiming Narratives” mean to you? 

For me, Black History Month is an opportunity to highlight the work done throughout the year by the BAME community. The big ‘wins’ showcased during the month is a consolidation of the small everyday ‘wins’ going on behind the scenes to enable the larger impact.

I feel that Black History Month is a metaphor for the work done by those that came before us, the unsung heroes who came when they were called, giving their service, skills, and effort to make our country what it is today.

With the global events occurring currently, this year’s theme “reclaiming the narrative” is more significant than ever. Knowledge is power, the definition of truth 'being in accord with fact or reality' is encouraging us all to educate ourselves with accuracy and provide understanding that we have far more in common that unites us than that which divides us.

“There is only one race, the human race.” – Jane Elliot.

Are there any role models that have inspired you?

I am inspired by the digital marketers using their platform to educate in a digestible manner, particularly my nursing colleagues.

Everyone’s learning styles vary, and while social media has its risks, there are many positive pages promoting health and wellbeing, providing factual information on current affairs and providing resources/services that people may not necessarily think to access.

For instance, Nurse, Angie Jay, has shown me another branch where I can take my nursing career with SCPHN skills; Simone Powderly, is an example of how lived experience can support others without formal training or qualification, hosting events for young people and creating a wonderful community for women. These are two people whom I follow, and I would highly recommend.

As a BAME staff, have you faced any challenges?

The statistics remain that as a member of the BAME community I am more likely to experience bullying and harassment as well as obstacles with career progression including banding.  On reflection, I have been presented with challenges in career advancement and unfair treatment by management, but this has also been counter-balanced with training opportunities provided specifically for BAME clinicians facilitated by The Florence Nightingale Foundation and support from BAME colleagues and mentors. Despite awareness of the inequalities, the glass ceiling continues to be, slowly lowered for the BAME community.

What is your message to NHS leaders?

Leadership includes role-modelling the expectations we have of others. Being prepared to go the extra mile for your staff.

Leaders have expectations that their staff will uphold Trust Values and continue to be current in best practice. Staff have the same expectations of their leaders, that treatment will be equally fair to all. Education is key, we can only do better when we all know better. A question that I do ask is who manages the leaders?

How to get involved

Reclaiming Narratives serves as a powerful invitation for participation. It’s a call for anyone with a story to tell to join us in this collective effort.

By sharing your stories and experiences, you can contribute to a movement that seeks to reshape public understanding of black history. This is an opportunity to highlight the richness of our heritage, the complexity of our identities, and the breadth of our contributions across various fields.