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A Therapeutic Radiographer has been shortlisted for the Chief Allied Health Professions Officer Award for Leadership in Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion.
James Barber is a Therapeutic Radiographer at the Royal Free London and chair of the SoR’s Equalise LGBTQI+ Workers Group.
The award acknowledges and celebrates Allied Healthcare Professionals who have made a significant contribution to the advancement of equality, diversity and inclusion.
'Equal opportunity to shine and progress'
His nomination described James as, “The most hardworking, passionate and driven Therapeutic Radiographer who constantly strives for better in practice and for our patients.”
James said: “I am extremely grateful to be shortlisted for the CAHPO Leadership in EDI Award. In the time since I became chair of the SoR LGBTQI+ Equalise Workers Group, it feels like now more than ever it is vital to champion the importance of working to ensure that all healthcare professionals truly embody the principles of equality, diversity and inclusivity rather than just going through the motions.
“That is what this award stands for – it shows that across all allied healthcare professions that we value the practice of truly ensuring that everyone is considered and cared for, having a voice in shaping the services which directly affect them, as well as being given equal opportunity to shine and progress. In a time where we see our rights being openly eroded, this is something that we cannot afford to lose sight of.”
The other nominees for this award include:
- Neil Gokani, head of equality, diversity, inclusion (EDI) and engagement, Sirona Care and Health CIC NHS provider
- Anna Coldwell and Beverley Sinden, major trauma rehab physiotherapists, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust
- Zoe Oram, AHP education lead, University Hospital Southampton
- Naomi McVey, regional head of allied health professions and national programme lead AHP support workforce at NHS England
The category winners will be announced during the Chief AHP Officer’s AHPs Day live address on Tuesday 14 October 2025 at 9:30am.
'Hard work and dedication'
James continued: “The SoR LGBTQI+ Equalise Workers Group will continue to stand up and be a voice for all members of our community, both professionals and patients, and ensure that voice is heard as far as possible.
“The group has achieved an astounding amount in the time it has been running, and I am incredibly proud of all its members who make it what it is. Really this award shortlisting showcases their hard work and dedication as much as anything else, and if I am lucky enough to win then I will be accepting on behalf of the whole team!”
Equalise aims to provide a support mechanism for members on equality and diversity issues, campaign/lobby on issues of concern for members, provide advice and support for members in the workplace, and become more proactive in the society and promote equality in the workplace.
Find out more about Equalise, and how to get involved, online here.
(Image: James Barber at SoR London Pride, via Eva Slusarek)