• NHS England and NHS Improvement has published the latest workforce race equality standard data.
• The number of Black, Asian and minority ethnic board members in trusts increased by more than 22% over the past year and very senior manager level representation has increased by 42% since 2017. 
• But persistent disparities face Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff working in the NHS compared to their white colleagues and they face more obstacles as they seek to make progress in their careers.
• More than 30% of Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff reported experiencing harassment, bullying or abuse from patients, relatives or the public.

Commenting on the NHS Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES): 2020 data report, the chief executive of NHS Providers, Chris Hopson said:

"Today's report shines a light on the persistent disparities facing our Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff compared to their white colleagues. While progress is being made on race equality in the NHS, it is clear that there is still a long way to go.

"The latest WRES data shows increased diversity amongst staff working in NHS trusts, which is incredibly welcome. We are particularly pleased that the number of Black, Asian and minority ethnic board members in trusts increased by more than 22% over the past year, and there has been further progress on very senior manager level representation, which has increased by 42% since 2017. It is vital that the NHS workforce and leadership reflects the diversity of our local communities.

More must be done to tackle systemic inequalities both within the NHS and society as whole.

"But we cannot – and should not – ignore the fact that on a day- to-day basis, our colleagues from ethnic minority backgrounds face considerably worse experiences in the NHS and face more obstacles as they seek to make progress in their careers.

"It remains deeply concerning that white applicants are more likely to be appointed from shortlisting compared to Black, Asian and minority ethnic applicants. This is also illustrated by the persistent, disproportionately low levels of progression for Black, Asian and ethnic minority staff into higher pay bands.

"Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff are still more likely to enter the formal disciplinary process compared to their white peers.

"It is also wholly unacceptable that more than 30% of Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff reported experiencing harassment, bullying or abuse from patients, relatives or the public. Trusts leaders are committed to ensuring that all staff are treated fairly and with respect, and to tackle discrimination and bullying.

"More must be done to tackle systemic inequalities both within the NHS and society as whole. This is particularly pertinent this year, given the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on our Black, Asian and minority ethnic colleagues."