UK hospital trust advises staff to use ‘Xey/Xem’ pronouns or apologize for mistakes
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in London is advising staff to use the pronouns ‘Xey/Xem’ for individuals who request them and to apologize for any mistakes.
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, based in South London, has implemented guidance for its staff regarding the use of neopronouns, specifically recommending the pronouns ‘Xey/Xem’ for those who identify with them. This initiative reflects a growing awareness and incorporation of diverse gender identities within workplace environments, aligning with the principles of inclusivity and respect. The hospital trust's guidelines are part of a broader push within the National Health Service to embrace LGBTQ+ diversity and sensitivity among its workforce.
The training document titled 'Pronouns and the LGBTQ+ Community' lists various pronouns, demonstrating an acknowledgment of the evolving language surrounding gender identity. This move also underscores the importance of personal identification in pronoun usage, suggesting that staff members should engage respectfully with colleagues by asking for and using their preferred pronouns. The Trust emphasizes that it is the individual’s choice to disclose their pronouns, thereby fostering an inclusive atmosphere for all staff members.
This adjustment at King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust may prompt a wider discussion regarding the implementation of similar policies across other institutions and sectors. By endorsing the use of neopronouns, such initiatives can help reduce stigma and promote a culture of acceptance, though they may also encounter resistance from individuals who oppose such changes. Overall, this policy shift reflects ongoing societal transformations regarding gender identity and the importance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives in professional settings.