The recent Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Independent Culture REVIEW has exposed a shocking and urgent issue within our healthcare system:
Systemic racism against Black nurses. This revelation has sent ripples through our community, igniting a call to action. We invite nurses, doctors, carers, and members of the public to join us in a powerful protest demanding justice and equality.
Why You Should Care
The NMC review revealed that Black nurses are three times more likely to face disciplinary action compared to their white counterparts. This systemic bias has created an environment of fear and distrust, with many Black nurses feeling constantly monitored and targeted. The emotional and mental toll is devastating, leading to severe mental health issues and, tragically, even suicides.
Key Findings:
Disproportionate Discipline:
Black nurses are three times more likely to face disciplinary action.
Mental Health Crisis:
Six nurses undergoing the Fitness to Practise process took their own lives in the past year.
Systemic Racism:
The NMC's practices perpetuate systemic racism, leading to career stagnation and a pervasive sense of injustice.
A Personal Story: Neomi Bennett's Struggle
A recent ARTICLE in The Independent highlights the harrowing experience of Neomi Bennett, the founder of Equality 4 Black Nurses. After publicly addressing the racism she witnessed within the NMC, Bennett was hit with a complaint by a senior NMC representative. This complaint, which she described as a profound betrayal and abuse of power, was eventually cleared, but the incident underscores the pervasive issues within the NMC.
Ms. Bennett's words resonate deeply: "Being referred to the NMC by a chair of its independent panel felt like a profound betrayal. I had dedicated my life to nursing and supporting marginalised communities, yet I faced the same systemic racism I fought against." Her experience is a powerful reminder of the urgent need for change.
Why This Matters for Service Users and the NHS
Systemic racism within the NMC not only affects nurses but also has severe implications for service users and the National Health Service (NHS) as a whole.
When nurses operate in an environment of fear and discrimination, their quality of care is compromised. Nurses under undue stress and scrutiny may struggle to perform at their best, leading to potential lapses in patient care. Moreover, a healthcare system that does not address racism fails to provide equitable care to all patients, particularly those from the Global Majority who may feel alienated and mistrusted by the system. Ensuring fair treatment for all healthcare professionals is crucial to maintaining a high standard of patient care and trust in the healthcare system.
This systemic issue within the NMC also undermines the NHS's mission to provide comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality care to all. A workforce that feels unsupported and discriminated against cannot function at its best, leading to inefficiencies, increased staff turnover, and a decline in overall morale. Addressing these issues head-on can help build a more inclusive and effective NHS, benefiting all patients and healthcare workers.
Your Presence Matters
This is more than a protest; it's a stand against injustice. By joining us, you're supporting thousands of Black, Asian, and ethnic minority nurses who endure these injustices daily.
Your voice can help bring about the change we desperately need.
Event Details
Date:17th July 2024
Time:12 noon to 5 pm
Location: Outside NMC Headquarters
23 Portland Pl, London W1B 1PZ
What to Expect
We will gather to hear powerful testimonies from affected nurses and community leaders and share our demands for systemic change to make our voices heard.
Together, we can dismantle the structures that perpetuate racism in our healthcare system.
Join the Movement
Bring your friends, family, and colleagues. Spread the word. Every voice counts. Let's show the NMC and the world we stand united for justice and equality.
For more information, contact E4BN, Equality 4 Black Nurses 0208 050 2598
Racism is a Crisis: Stand with Black Nurses, Demand Justice!
Together, we can create a healthcare system that values and uplifts all professionals, regardless of race. Join us in this critical fight for justice.
Let's make history together. Your presence is powerful.
Unbelievably shocking what black nurses have to go through in this country.