The Professional Alliance of Indian Radiographers has been launched as a Special Interest Group (SIG) of the SoR.
Launching as a SIG will allow the Professional Alliance of Indian Radiographers (PAIR)to provide Indian radiographers in the UK with opportunities to connect with other professionals and receive support through a new platform.
Professionals will be able to make use of several key services, such as pastoral support, career guidance and online sessions focused on topics relevant to Indian radiographers.
As well as supporting individuals of Indian origin building careers in the UK healthcare sector, PAIR aims to celebrate contributions from members to the healthcare system and advocate for the interests of Indian radiographers in the wider healthcare community.
Fostering inclusivity
PAIR was established in January 2021 through the creation of a Whatsapp group, which encouraged Indian radiographers in the UK to connect and provide peer-to-peer support.
Alongside the announcement of its recognition as a SIG, PAIR has also revealed its new Board of Directors structure. Here, Rajesh Kesavan of Birmingham Women and Children's Hospital has been appointed to the role of chairman and director of public relations and communications.
Partha Jyoti Das of Cleveland London Clinic has been named as vice chairman and finance director, while Rukmani Bhudia of Barts Health NHS Trust takes on the role of chairperson of the women's wing.
“The launch of PAIR marks a significant step forward for the Indian Origin Radiographers working in the United Kingdom,” said Mr Kesavan. “By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we can ensure radiographers have the tools and support they need to deliver the best possible care to their patients.
"We believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. PAIR will work towards creating a more inclusive environment for Indian radiographers within the healthcare sector and trusts that by coming together, we can make a substantial contribution to the radiology profession in the UK."
Other members of the PAIR board are, Bosco Antony, Working Chairman, from Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, and Abraham Cheriyakavil Koshy,Director of Operations and Welfare, from Alliance Medical. Both of these individuals keep things support pair with all their endeavours within their office and have made significant contributions to the organization.
A 'crucial role' for PAIR
Bhudia said that PAIR would help to address disparities experienced by Indian radiographers in the UK.
"We recognise the unique challenges faced by Indian radiographers in the UK, including cultural, linguistic and professional barriers," she explained. "PAIR will play a crucial role in addressing these issues and creating a supportive community."
Noyal Mathew of University College Hospital in London was also named as an addition to the board, in the role of director of professional development and education. He said that the range of experience within the board would help to propel PAIR towards its ultimate goal.
"The director board comprising the following members has been nominated with a key focus on upholding, discoursing and strategically nurturing the above mentioned PAIR preamble of continuous professional development for Indian Radiographers in the UK," he clarified.
"The wealth of experience in their respective fields will be sure to steer PAIR towards its immediate goals and progress in its mission of 'empowering practice and advancing career'".