BITC’s response to the rise in racial abuse towards NHS nurses 

Today, national and London-based newspaper outlets have reported on the rise in racial abuse towards nurses in the NHS, stating that calls to the Royal College of Nursing helpline regarding discrimination complaints have risen by 70%, with on average one incident of discrimination every 51 minutes.^[1] 

Addressing racial bullying and harassment in the workplaces has been a key part of Business in the Community’s (BITC) Race Equality campaign for a decade. Having a zero-tolerance policy in place for bullying and harassment at work is one of the commitments of BITC’s Race at Work Charter.^[2]  

Sandra Kerr CBE, Race Equality Director at Business in the Community, said: 

NHS carers and nurses look after the UK’s most vulnerable people, and should be treated with the same respect and kindness they demonstrate to their patients. BITC has been working for a decade to track the issue of racial bullying and harassment in the workplace, and from customers and clients. The evidence is clear: racial harassment must be stamped out in every workplace so that everyone feels comfortable, respected, and like they belong at work. 

Openness to the state of the challenge is the first step to tackling racial discrimination, followed by policy change, ensuring that all employees, customers, clients, and stakeholders are aware of the standards we all need to commit to. The final step is taking tangible action to eliminate any racial bullying and harassment incidents once and for all.

ENDS

Notes to editor

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