New anti-racism resource for NHS nursing and midwifery professionals

Combatting racial discrimination against minority ethnic nurses, midwives and nursing associates is designed to help nurses, midwives and nursing associates who experience or witness racism.

The resource includes practical examples and tools to help nursing and midwifery professionals discuss, explore and challenge racism safely and effectively.

Andrea Sutcliffe, NMC Chief Executive and Registrar, said:

“As an organisation committed to promoting anti-racism, the NMC is determined to support the professionals on our register to challenge discrimination wherever they see it. We’re proud to have joined forces with NHS England and NHS Confederation to offer this new resource, which supports all nurses, midwives and nursing associates working in the NHS to tackle racism. It is focused on the NHS but I hope it will be useful for everyone wherever they are working in health and care.

“I hope this resource will help our professionals to play their part in creating and sustaining an inclusive environment, where everybody is treated with the dignity and respect they have a right to expect.”

Dame Ruth May DBE, Chief Nursing Officer, England, said:

“There is no place for racism in the NHS, nor anywhere else. This resource, which is firmly rooted in our professional code of conduct, will support nurses, midwives and nursing associates so they feel empowered to take action if they experience or witness racism or discrimination. It’s also a useful tool for leaders and organisations.

“It is imperative that we continue to do more to tackle racism, create inclusive environments and learn what being anti-racist looks like, so we can support all our nursing and midwifery workforce, securing their wellbeing and enabling them to continue delivering high-quality care in safe environments.”

Joan Saddler OBE, director of partnerships and equality, and co-facilitator of the BME Leadership Network, NHS Confederation said:

“NHS staff are under unacceptable pressures particularly following the impact of COVID-19. Measures supporting staff wellbeing have been developed for all staff, including specific support for workforce stress and mental health. This resource begins to tackle another area, enabling staff on the ground experiencing and witnessing racism to take action.

“By tackling the raft of documented and consistent staff experiences of racism, NHS leaders will also be supported to ensure robust procedures deliver their NHS commitment to a safe and respectful environment for all.”

Read Combatting racial discrimination against minority ethnic nurses, midwives and nursing associates on the NHS England website.

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