Taking an anti-racist approach

Taking an anti-racist approach means ensuring that how we behave or design and operate our services does not discriminate against BME people.  Discrimination means treating people less favourably due to their colour, nationality (including citizenship), ethnicity or national origin (Equality Act (2010)).  We all have an ethnicity.

As NHSGGC staff we need to recognise that racism – or any form of discrimination – is a fundamental cause of poor health in affected populations. 

We need to create an environment free from racism and stereotyping. We have a responsibility to deliver Person and Family Centred Care to all our patients, based on their individual needs and best practice. Do not make assumptions about a patient’s needs – ask them.

It’s important to recognise that being in the majority group brings with it a level of power and belonging that BME people may not attain. Pointing out perceived differences in appearance, describing BME patients as ‘not our patients' or as ‘foreign’ when they were born here, all contribute to ‘othering.’ 

This ‘othering’ can often take the form of using offensive language. Sometimes people will describe certain language as ‘banter’ or ‘having a laugh,’ which can make it difficult for someone to challenge. It is important to always speak up and address the use of offensive language that may be heard in our services. 

Racism is classed as a Hate Incident or Hate Crime and should be reported through the NHSGGC Datix Incident reporting system   Please note this page is available via Staffnet.