Equity, Diversity and Inclusion 

IAFMHS is committed to fostering equity and diversity in our organization and in forensic mental health and intellectual disability services. The Association promotes diversity in our membership and an inclusive environment that enables the contributions of all members. IAMFHS takes a proactive response to ensure that organizational activities, protocols and structures are culturally sensitive, non-discriminatory and responsive to the needs of our members, especially those from under-represented groups.

IAFMHS has established an Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Committee (EDIC) to achieve these ends. The intent of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Special Interest Group (EDI SIG) is to inform the direction of this Committee.

Mission Statement

To create a platform for research, training, support and information sharing geared towards fostering equity and diversity in our organization and in forensic mental health and intellectual disability services.

Target group

The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Special Interest Group is open to any member of IAFMHS. There is no additional membership fee. Group members will include psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, and administrators who have interest in equity and diversity in our organization and in forensic mental health and intellectual disability services.

Goals

To assist the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Committee to:

• Enhance the standards of forensic mental health and intellectual disability services in the international community by ensuring that IAFMHS acts as an organization that is culturally sensitive, non-discriminatory and responsive to the needs of vulnerable communities 
• Promote an international dialogue about diversity issues and considerations in forensic mental health and intellectual disability
• Promote education, training, and research in diversity issues in forensic mental health and intellectual disability services
• Support and create membership, leadership, and research opportunities for members of under-represented groups
• Inform professional communities and the public about current diversity issues in forensic mental health and intellectual disability services

How to achieve these goals

The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Special Interest Group will hold annual meetings during the IAFMHS conference with deliberation on the goals of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Special Interest Group. It will also consider the establishment of working parties to progress work generated from this meeting via AVL.

If you are interested in joining the EDI SIG please contact Sarah Schaaf (schaafsarah10@gmail.com).