Can we talk about Race? Tackling bullying harassment and abuse in the NHS

Our Can we talk about race? series focuses on how leaders are enabling conversations about race and involving staff, patients, and communities in these. These sessions have been designed to help leaders understand the lexicon of race and to enable them to speak about race authentically and recognise that this is a critical part of leading change and supporting staff.

Last year in 82% of NHS trusts, a higher proportion of ethnic minority staff (27.8%) compared to white staff (24.1%) experienced harassment, bullying or abuse from patients and the public. In October 2025, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) also reported a 55% rise in ethnic minority members facing racist abuse. Trust leaders have told us about the concerning surge of overt racism being directed at their staff.

In this 90-minute peer learning event, you will hear from NHS leaders and practitioners who are supporting staff experiencing bullying, harassment and hate crimes and creating cultures focused on inclusivity and anti-racism.

• The lived experience of ethnic minority leaders and the role of the board as allies.

• Actionable strategies to support staff who experience bullying, harassment and abuse including hate crime.

• Insights on barriers to speaking up and reporting alongside approaches to developing a culture of psychological safety to tackle the surge of racism being faced by staff.

• The role of trust leaders as active white allies, including case studies from trust leaders.

• Executive directors
• Non-executive directors
• EDI leads

This event is exclusive to NHS Providers members and free to attend as part of your membership. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.