International women's day

Its International Women’s Day (IWD) on 08 March 2023. This year’s theme is #EmbraceEquity.  

The aim of the IWD 2023 #EmbraceEquity campaign theme is to get the world talking about why equal opportunities aren't enough. People start from different places, so true inclusion and belonging require equitable action.  

To be able to embrace equity it is important to how it differs from equality. Below is a helpful explanation:  

• Equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. 

• Equity can be defined as giving everyone what they need to be successful. In other words, it's not giving everyone the exact same thing 

Read more about IWD and this year’s theme here

The International Women’s Day is also an opportunity to celebrate achievements and successes by women.  

We were delighted that Kate Thompson, our Head of Extra Care and Interim Housing Lead was recently awarded an MBE for her commitment to social care and Inclusion. She will be attending a ceremony at Windsor Castle on 11th July to accept her award.  

Kate, Head of Extra Care and Interim Housing Lead said: “I am humbled to have been nominated for this honour” 

She added: “This organisation has always given me lots of freedom which means I have been able to try new things and increase inclusion by giving a voice to those who otherwise might not have one. We are all different and it is great that I’ve been trusted to do what’s needed to support the diverse communities I work with." 

 "A good example of this is the supported internship programme we run at Hartfields in conjunction with the special education school Catcote Academy in Hartlepool where students come to us to access work-based learning and gain valuable life skills and experiences.”  

Kate is keen to acknowledge that the recognition she’s received is also a reflection of the work of many dedicated colleagues from across the organisation who she’s worked with to make projects a success. 

 “I’ve not done this on my own, the teams across all the extra care services have played a big part in this achievement and have been an inspiration to me. Also, without JRF projects like ‘Dementia Without Walls’ I would not have been able to progress the work or secure fundraising grants for this really important cause. I see colleagues demonstrating our values in everything they do because they care and want to make a difference and work together on a shared outcome. It is great to be part of that strong team effort”.