CIVIC dignitaries have praised Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust for supporting events today (Monday, 28 June) when hospital staff were joined in an afternoon of picnics as part of Pride month.

The celebrations were organised by the local hospital Trust's LGBTQ+ network to help raise awareness of issues facing the community and to show off its diverse staff network.

There were packed lunches, refreshments and even and an ice-cream van at the picnics, which took place across the Trust's three main sites in Southend, Basildon and Broomfield. The events also complied with the latest Covid-19 restrictions.

Trust chief executive Clare Panniker said: "Pride picnics are a key part of our summer calendar that we all look forward to. Days like today, where we celebrate with our LGBTQ+ staff, are an important part of our culture of equality, diversity and inclusion in the Trust."

Deputy mayor of Thurrock, Cllr James Halden, supported the event and said: "Diversity is one of our biggest strengths. It is with pride that I, on behalf of Thurrock Council, commend Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust's inclusivity and the recognition they have shown today for the fantastic work their LGBTQ+ community does to care for everyone who walks through their doors.

"Today was a great opportunity to celebrate those achievements and thank the trust for all it does."