Statement on the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds

Commenting on the disproportionate impact of Covid-19 on people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, Andrea Sutcliffe CBE, Chief Executive and Registrar of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), said:

“We are very concerned about reports that mortality rates from Covid-19 may be higher in ethnic minority groups. Every death is devastating, and especially so when it’s a health or care professional working to save the lives of others.

“We’ve heard from many of our partners across health and social care about concerns that the virus may be exacerbating existing inequalities and we’ll be looking closely at the relevant information we hold about the nursing and midwifery workforce as our data and understanding of the situation develops.

“We agree that this should be looked into urgently, and we hope the voices of ethnic minorities and groups representing them are listened to and taken seriously during the Government’s review in order to reach outcomes which protect everyone during this crisis.”

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