A national survey recently carried out by the NHS Confederation’s BME Leadership network, says that more than half of senior health leaders from black and minority ethnic (BME) backgrounds are considering leaving the NHS because of their experience of racism at work.
Survey findings found that many senior leaders from BME backgrounds ranging from roles including chief executives, directors and senior managers had experienced verbal abuse and behaviour targeting their racial, national or cultural heritage at least once in the last three years. Additionally, more than 1 in 5 respondents, said that this unacceptable behaviour had happened to them five times or more.
Our Race Equality Steering Group (launching on 8th July) jointly chaired by Rob Hurd, Chief Executive of NHS North West London ICS and Linda Jackson, Director of COVID and Refugee Lead at Hammersmith & Fulham Council is determined to address this inequity, to complement the vital work being undertaken by Inequality Lead June Farquharson and her portfolio that addresses health inequalities. The zero tolerance to racism stance in the North West London Integrated Care System is also being supplemented by an evidence-driven programme of work to support the wellbeing and development of the BME workforce, led by Michelle Johnson Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead for NHS North West London.
Rob Hurd says: ‘We are taking a zero tolerance approach to racism in the workplace, and behaviours that have been described in the survey are simply unacceptable. Disciplinary action will be taken against anyone whose behaviour or words go against the inclusive culture we’re working hard to embed within our organisation. Tackling inequalities is a key objective of the North West London Integrated Care System: we cannot do this without creating a culture in which diversity and inclusion are central to all we do’.
‘Our Race Equality Steering Group aims to deliver a consistent approach to leadership development at all levels. This means we are committed to making our ICS an inclusive and encouraging environment for all staff. We are also committed to continuing to improve the diversity of the Health and Care work-force, and the Integrated Care System will strengthen our resolve to see diversity of leadership truly reflected in the NHS North West London workforce.’
Linda Jackson says: ‘The NHS Confederation’s survey results are incredibly disturbing. Verbal abuse and racist behaviour should not be tolerated in any workplace – and I support the recommendations they’ve made for reform.
‘Although the health and care workforce is more diverse than at any other point in its history, this survey demonstrates that systemic racism still exists and there is a clear need for culture change.
‘As an ICS we are committed to removing barriers, taking action, and building the trust and confidence of all our staff and residents. This will only start when people can see strong leadership combined with inclusive support to staff from a BME background.’