Why colleagues choose to share their pronouns
This Pride Month, colleagues across the Trust share why they have chosen to include pronouns in their email signatures and Hub profiles. Their reflections highlight how small actions can help create a workplace where everyone feels respected, recognised and included.
Sheila Pearce, she/her, Director of Nursing: “When the Trust-wide message about adding pronouns to our email signatures was circulated, it prompted me to reflect on identity in a way I had not previously considered. I have always felt confident in my own identity, but it made me realise that this is not the experience for everyone. It helped me to better understand that for some colleagues, being seen and recognised for who they are cannot be taken for granted.
“I felt that by sharing my own pronouns, I could play a small part in creating a more inclusive environment. If it encourages others to feel comfortable doing the same, then it may have a positive impact—particularly for those who have previously felt unseen or unsure about how they are perceived in the workplace.”
Mugundhan Parthasarathy, he/him, Head of Specialist Services for South West: “For me personally, the use of pronouns is important. My name, Mugundhan, is of Indian origin and is another name for the Hindu God Sri Krishna. It is not a name that may be familiar to everyone, particularly in terms of identifying gender.
“In addition, pronouns provide an opportunity for individuals to express how they would like to be identified and addressed. For me, it is a simple but meaningful way of being inclusive from the outset, acknowledging and respecting a person's identity, beliefs, and cultural background.”
Shelley Heffernan, she/her, Head of Clinical Service for Merton Children’s services: “For me, including pronouns in my email signature is a meaningful way that goes beyond formality, it’s a way of showing that I will never intentionally make assumptions about anyone’s identity.
“Respecting pronouns is fundamental because it’s an integral part of a person’s identity. By adding pronouns to my signature, I’m making a small but significant step towards nurturing a culture of understanding and acceptance. It’s my way of communicating that I’m approachable, if anyone has ever felt disrespected or encountered a negative experience, I want them to know I’m here to listen and support.
“There’s something very powerful about a group of colleagues openly signalling to their teams that everyone’s identity is valued and respected. Simple actions like this can have a big impact, helping us build an inclusive environment where everyone feels safe and seen.”
Dr Tamar Koch, she/her, Divisional Medical Director for North Central Division: “I chose to add pronouns to my email signature because my name is not a common one in this country, and because my title is Dr, people don’t necessarily know what pronouns to use.
“I feel by declaring my pronouns I am helping someone know how to address me, without putting them in a situation where they get it wrong, and then have to feel apologetic or guilty about having done so. I feel like it’s a respectful way of pre-empting assumptions, and preventing social awkwardness.”
Louise Ayres, she/her, Deputy Director of Operations for Hertfordshire Division: “For me, I haven’t had to spend much time thinking about my own gender identity or how others might perceive it. Because of that, it would be easy to assume that including pronouns in my email signature isn’t necessary. However, I know that isn’t the case for everyone.
“Including my pronouns is a small and simple way to help create a workplace where sharing and respecting pronouns is normal for us all. It’s about contributing to an environment where everyone feels comfortable being recognised as who they are. This is entirely a personal choice, but I know for some colleagues it can make a real difference. We all shape our team culture by the small things we choose to do.”
Cathy Walker, she/her, Executive Sponsor for the Rainbow Network and Chief Operating Officer: “It is important to remember this isn’t mandatory and that some people may not feel comfortable sharing theirs as of yet. Some people may have pronouns you were not aware existed or may use different pronouns depending on the situation. What is key is to be respectful and try your best to get things right.”
Jake Edwards, he/they, Communications Officer and Co-chair of the Rainbow Network: “I think it’s really important to address the people who don’t feel comfortable sharing their pronouns. Whilst it is nice to see so many people helping to normalise it, there are many very valid reasons why people might not want to. For some, they may not want to ‘out’ themselves at work, they may be questioning and unsure of their pronouns, and for some people it may raise questions within themselves that they are not comfortable addressing at work. That’s not a complete list, but it’s something for people to think about.
“It’s okay to ask people what their pronouns are if you’re unsure, but it’s not okay to challenge someone on why they’re not sharing their pronouns visibly. It can be a personal and sensitive matter. We should all strive to address people with respect and pronouns are a part of that, so let’s keep the conversation going and help everyone feel respected at work.”
