[ad_1]
The dictionary definition of racism is discrimination and prejudice against people based on their race or ethnicity.
However, this does not adequately describe the horrific reality of racism experienced by nurses and other staff in the NHS, which can come from patients or colleagues.
“Concerningly, a major investigation by Nursing Times has revealed that incidents of racism against NHS staff are increasing”
It can include physical or verbal abuse – like being shouted at, spat on or physically attacked – and being referred to in derogatory terms or asked unwelcome questions about their background.
It can also include being routinely passed over for promotion or a higher likelihood of being referred for disciplinary procedures. All forms are unpleasant, undermining, unfair and unacceptable.
Concerningly, a major investigation by Nursing Times has revealed that incidents of racism against NHS staff are increasing.
Our analysis of freedom-of-information data provided by 137 trusts supports anecdotal evidence from nurses that, despite awareness of race and racism increasing in recent years, the problem is getting worse, not better.
A total of 8,835 incidents of racism were reported in 2023 – equivalent to 24 every day – which indicates an 18% increase since 2022 and a 105% increase since 2019.
These deeply disturbing findings mean efforts must be redoubled at every level to tackle the scourge of racism wherever it rears its head.
Individual nurses and their teams, however, already do invaluable work to boost equality, diversity and inclusion in many parts of the country.
In this month’s Nursing Times – our sixth annual edition dedicated to equality, diversity and inclusion – we highlight some of those staff, including two of our award winners and a nurse who is working to make palliative care more equitable.
We also have articles on nurses supporting international staff to stay and thrive, helping to understand faith-based issues for Muslim families after suicide and boosting healthcare engagement for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.
A Manifesto by Nurses
In addition, with the general election on 4 July very much dominating thoughts and headlines, this month we are publishing the final chapter in our Manifesto by Nurses, which focuses on mental health policy.
We will combine all the chapters into one document to send to the key political parties. You can find out more about A Manifesto by Nurses and the topics already covered by visiting the Nursing Times website.
[ad_2]
Source link