Sometimes, it is the smallest details that help us feel comfortable.
Being addressed in the way we prefer.
Not having assumptions made about our life, our relationships or our body.
Knowing that we can speak openly without needing to explain, defend or edit who we are.
At The Phoenix Foundry, we believe good healthcare begins with feeling heard.
Every person who walks through our door brings their own history, experiences and understanding of themselves. Our role is not to make assumptions. It is to listen carefully, communicate respectfully and provide professional care that is appropriate for the individual in front of us.
We welcome people of all genders, sexual orientations, ethnical backgrounds and family structures.
For some patients, these things may never need to be discussed. For others, feeling confident that they will be treated with sensitivity can make an enormous difference to whether they feel able to seek care at all.
Inclusivity does not need to be loud to be meaningful.
It can be found in the language we use, the questions we ask and the assumptions we choose not to make. It means respecting names and pronouns, listening when someone describes their own body or experience, and recognising that health and wellbeing are personal.
Clinical treatment may sometimes involve discussions about medical history, hormones, surgery, pregnancy, family circumstances or other sensitive subjects. Where these conversations are relevant, we aim to approach them professionally and without judgement, explaining why information is being requested and giving patients space to ask questions or raise concerns.
You are always welcome to tell us what would help you feel more comfortable during your appointment. That might include how you would like to be addressed, areas of treatment you would prefer to avoid, the presence of a chaperone, or simply needing a little more explanation before we begin.
We may not always get every word perfectly right. What matters is that we remain willing to listen, learn and respond respectfully.
Because everyone deserves healthcare in which they can feel safe, recognised and able to be themselves.
The Phoenix Foundry — professional care, centred around the person in front of us.
