Malany Kalicharan has become the first diagnostic radiographer to be appointed as deputy chair of an influential ethnic diversity group.
In her new role with the Chief AHP Officer Black Asian Minority Ethnic Strategic Advisory Group (CAHPO BAME SAG), Malany is the first radiographer - either diagnostic or therapeutic - to hold this position.
The group works to advise the Chief AHP Officer at NHS England on subjects relevant to ethnic diversity within the Allied Health Professional (AHP) employee base. This involves assessing policies to make sure they are ethnically diverse, and ensuring diversity is reflected amongst the AHP workforce.
In addition, the group manages the ongoing improvement of the equality, diversity, and inclusion work programme. This programme focuses on improving the experiences of ethnic minorities working as AHP’s in publicly funded services, such as the NHS.
In addition to her new role, Ms Kalicharan also holds the position of chair of the Midlands AHP Ethnic Minority Network.
Appointment reflects AHP commitment to diversity
Ms Kalicharan’s appointment has been met with praise, with Professor Suzanne Rastrick OBE saying she was looking forward to working with her in the coming year.
Noma Makanda, chair of the CAHPO BAME SAG and professional lead occupational therapist and deputy chief AHP at Rotherham Doncaster and South, commented that Ms Kalicharan’s appointment would prove beneficial to AHP’s and those they work with.
“This leadership will influence health and care policy development for the benefit of AHPs and the people and communities they serve,” Ms Makanda said. “I warmly welcomed Malany to her new role as deputy chair.”
In reference to her new role, Ms Kalicharan highlighted the AHP Strategy for England (2022-2027), which states that “AHP’s deliver to ensure diverse professional representation within AHP leadership”. She is anticipating the positive effects of her appointment on the wider health and care community.