To pretend discrimination does not exist is damaging

31 March 2021


Commenting on a new report from the commission on race and ethnic disparities, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery said:

"We disagree with the conclusions of this report. Within the largest employer in the country – the NHS – there is clear and unmistakable evidence that staff from ethnic minorities have worse experiences at work and face more barriers in progressing their careers than their white counterparts.

"While some progress has been made, to pretend that discrimination does not exist is damaging as is denying the link between structural racism and wider health inequalities.

While some progress has been made, to pretend that discrimination does not exist is damaging as is denying the link between structural racism and wider health inequalities.

Saffron Cordery    Deputy Chief Executive

"The latest WRES data shows that for 82.7% of trusts, a higher proportion of Black, Asian and minority ethnic staff compared to white staff experienced harassment, bullying or abuse from colleagues in the last 12 months.

"Within the NHS, white applicants are more likely to be appointed from shortlisting compared to Black, Asian and minority ethnic applicants.

"The latest NHS staff survey results showed that ethnic background continues to be the most common reason for discrimination.

"To achieve change, there needs to be an honest conversation about racism, its structural roots and its impact. When these facts are acknowledged, it is only then that mindsets can change so that privilege and prejudices can be dispelled.

To achieve change, there needs to be an honest conversation about racism, its structural roots and its impact. When these facts are acknowledged, it is only then that mindsets can change so that privilege and prejudices can be dispelled.

Saffron Cordery    Deputy Chief Executive

"Concrete action is needed to tackle structural racism, bias and discrimination in the health service, across other public services and across society. For the NHS, the recommendations put forward by the chairs and chief executives ethnic minority network to NHS England yesterday will be good starting point."