NHS Employers responds to Lord Mann's review of antisemitism and other forms of racism in the NHS

Responding to the government's acceptance of the recommendations of Lord Mann's review of antisemitism and other forms of racism in the NHS, Dean Royles, interim chief executive of NHS Employers, said:

“This is a critical and thorough review by Lord Mann which reveals beyond any doubt that antisemitism and others forms of racism in the NHS are rising, as they are within our wider society, and must be tackled with urgency by all of us.The priority must now be ensuring these recommendations are implemented effectively and consistently across the NHS.

“Antisemitic language and behaviour have become more visible and normalised - including within the NHS. They have no place in our communities, and certainly no place in our health service. Jewish staff and patients must feel safe at work and seek treatment without fear of prejudice or abuse.

“While there is lots of work for regulators and the wider system to act upon, Lord Mann has been unequivocal that employers are the first line of defence when it comes to dealing with antisemitism and all forms of racism.

“Employers and NHS leaders know that good employment practices and expectations around behaviour are paramount and will take on the recommendations and feedback from the review. We will be working with work chief people officers from across the NHS to support them with delivering the recommendations outlined in the review.

“The NHS is a universal service. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected in healthcare settings and we will do all we can to support employers in making the NHS safe for everyone.”