A blog in collaboration with Dr Hortensia Gimeno and Dr Gita Ramdharry, recently appointed Deputy Chairs for CARIN’s EDI work.

https://www.councilofdeans.org.uk/partnerships/carin-clinical-academic-roles-implementation-network/As part of its work to support and improve clinical academic careers for nurses, midwives and allied health professionals, the Council hosts CARIN (Clinical Academic Roles and Career Pathways Implementation Network). CARIN was established to advise, support and share innovation and best practice of activity that promotes, engages and evaluates the development and implementation of joint clinical academic roles for healthcare professionals.

CARIN has an equity, diversity and inclusion commitment and principles which are intended to be embedded into all of its work, including all sub-group portfolios. It also aims to promote equitable, accessible, and inclusive research environments and roles, contributing to health equity agendas.

CARIN has recently appointed two Deputy Chairs for it’s EDI work: Dr Hortensia Gimeno and Dr Gita Ramdharry, and along with CARIN Chair Professor Jane Coad, and the whole membership; CARIN wants to be a voice for change for the clinical academic research sector. It wants to make a tangible difference to the individuals and organisations that are part of CARIN, as well as to people and communities. We do this by ensuring our EDI principles are authentically embedded in CARIN’s work programmes and activities as well as in our governance structure. As a Network, we want to continually improve our own policy and practice for the benefit of our members and the communities they engage with. We will also build partnerships with organisations and groups who share our commitment to strengthen our voice.

CARIN’s key EDI principles are:

• Acknowledge the struggles and inequities that exist for some members. Be compassionate and unquestioning if members share their experiences and challenges.
• Inclusive Language: It is important to avoid reinforcing negative stereotypes and avoid emotive, or deficit-based language. Tailor language and discussion to the diverse backgrounds and identities of CARIN members.
• Prioritise equity: Strive to create fairness and equal opportunities for all members of CARIN, considering the multifaceted nature of professional and personal identities, all four UK countries and roles that members undertake.
• Account for cultural meaning: Be mindful of cultural nuances to avoid unintended offence or miscommunication. Avoid organising events to coincide with major cultural festivities and faith holidays.
• Continuous learning: Learn from other CARIN members and partner organisations, and share learning.
• Transparency: Be self-reflective and transparent about changes that need to be made within CARIN and that we need to influence