International Women’s Day at CLCH: support, strength and community

This week, International Women’s Day (8 March) offers an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women and highlight the support available across CLCH. 

On Thursday 5 March, CLCH’s Women’s Network marked the occasion with a special event. Staff enjoyed complimentary massages from Stress Angels, afternoon tea and goodie bags and enjoyed a moment to pause, connect and recognise the contributions of women across the Trust. 

Chief Allied Health Professional and Women’s Network Co-chair, Patsy Fung said:  

“Once a year we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate International Women's Day. 2026 marks an extraordinary milestone of 115 years of collective action,  advocacy and progress towards gender equality. For over a century International Women's Day has helped drive transformative change.  

“At CLCH 80% of our workforce are female and our Women's Network is very well established by promoting sisterhood and support with a focus on health, wellbeing and enhancing career development and progression. Thank you so much for supporting International Women's Day”. 

CLCH continues to strengthen the support available to both staff and the communities it serves. One key initiative is the partnership with Advance, which is providing specialist training to help healthcare professionals identify and respond to domestic abuse. Through this collaboration, a dedicated Domestic Abuse Trainer and Advisor offers expert guidance, tailored training and confidential advice for staff, ensuring safe referral pathways for patients and colleagues who may be experiencing abuse. This work reinforces CLCH’s commitment to whole-person care, placing safety and wellbeing at the centre of its neighbourhood approach. 

Supporting women’s health in the workplace is also a priority. CLCH has introduced four menopause wellbeing nurses, who began their roles in January. Working across the Trust, they are helping raise awareness, update policies and develop training for staff and managers. With around 80% of the workforce being women, many aged between 35 and 65, this support is vital. From spring, the team will begin offering dedicated clinics to provide advice, guidance and support to colleagues experiencing menopause symptoms. 

Together, these initiatives reflect CLCH’s commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive environment, empowering women to thrive at work and ensuring patients receive compassionate, informed care.