The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has revealed a 55 percent rise in racist incidents reported by nurses over three years, describing the trend as a “mark of shame” for Britain’s health system. The data shows calls to the union’s advice line have increased from nearly 700 in 2022 to more than 900 in 2024, with projections topping 1,000 by the end of this year. Most calls come from the global majority and migrant nursing staff who report being insulted, ignored, or denied protection after racial abuse at work. The RCN warns that anti-migrant rhetoric from politicians and media has made conditions worse and urges the government to act.

The Human Toll of Racism in the NHS

Behind every call to the RCN lies a pattern of hostility that nurses say has become routine. Managers told some members they “shouldn’t have come to the UK,” denied them annual leave unfairly, and directed racist comments at them. Others report patients rejecting their care or using slurs that liken them to “slaves” or “creatures.” Many said their employers failed to act when they complained. Professor Nicola Ranger, the RCN’s general secretary, called the findings “absolutely disgusting,” saying employers have a legal duty to protect staff from abuse. The union warns that when racism goes unchecked, staff leave and wards become more dangerously short-staffed.

Government and Institutional Response

The RCN’s report prompted the government and NHS employers to respond. A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care called the figures “shocking and unacceptable,” adding that the Prime Minister has ordered a review of racism across the NHS. The RCN, however, argues that symbolic gestures are not enough. It is calling for employers to adopt stronger anti-racism policies, work with trade unions to improve reporting, and hold senior managers accountable for inaction. NHS Employers echoed this call, describing the reported behaviour as “utterly disgraceful.” The RCN has also condemned government plans to double the waiting period for migrant nurses to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. They have called it “pandering of the worst kind.”

Public Outrage and the Call for Change

Public reaction to the RCN’s findings has been immediate and emotional. Nurses, patients, and MPs have voiced outrage online and in Parliament. Labour MP Janet Daby said her mother, a retired nurse, faced racism throughout her career. She added that nurses deserve honour, not abuse. Unions like UNISON and social care groups shared the RCN’s statement online. Many users called the rise in racism “disgusting” and “a national disgrace.” Others linked it to far-right politics and divisive public rhetoric spreading into hospitals. For most, the message is simple: racism is driving away the very staff the NHS depends on.

Final Thoughts

The RCN’s report exposes the reality that racism in healthcare is not fading; it is spreading. Nurses who dedicate their lives to public care are being met with hostility instead of respect, while the institutions meant to protect them continue to falter. The NHS cannot run on diversity while tolerating discrimination. Protecting those who protect others is not optional; it is the measure of a nation’s humanity.

Discover more from Feminegra

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.