Published on: 1 July 2026
It is South Asian Heritage Month (1 - 31 July), and Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is proud to celebrate the vibrant contributions of its South Asian communities and colleagues. This year’s theme, Unity in Diversity, encourages us to reflect on the shared values, histories and commitment to community and belonging, while celebrating the strength of diversity.
Derbyshire Healthcare’s BME Network supports Black and Minority Ethnic colleagues across the Trust through providing a space to share experiences, promote inclusion and help shape work to improve equality, diversity and belonging. The network’s co-chairs have shared what South Asian Heritage Month means to them and why it is important to celebrate, learn and reflect.
Chetna Mistry, co-chair of Derbyshire Healthcare’s BME Network, said: “South Asian heritage month is about celebrating the diverse cultures and religions traditions and histories across South Asia. We want to come together and celebrate how our shared experiences, values, cultural influences and migration stories. It’s a time to reflect on how these may contribute to experiences of racism. Allies at this Trust are asked to share their experiences and be curious to increase their confidence in challenging and reporting racism.
“The awareness month is also an opportunity for people to learn more about South Asian heritage and culture in everyday life - whether that is through food, clothing, music, art, storytelling, family traditions or conversations with others. By taking the time to listen, learn and celebrate, we can all help to build greater understanding and respect for South Asian communities.”
Clem Thompson, co-chair of Derbyshire Healthcare’s BME Network, said: “For me, South Asian Heritage Month is about respect, taking time to understand the journeys, contributions, and creativity of South Asian communities, and recognising the impact they’ve had on the world around us. It’s also a moment to practise allyship to listen deeply, challenge bias wherever it appears, and stand alongside South Asian communities in ways that are active, intentional, and rooted in solidarity.”
