Recognising the pervasiveness of racism

Health inequalities experienced by communities of colour have been acknowledged by Walcott and Nightingale (2025), concluding that the government aims of better health for all cannot be realised without a diagnosis that understands how racism determines health. Their report cites examples of harrowing media stories such as the death of two children linked to air pollution and mould exposure. Although as a society we have had moments of recognition, mostly stubborn ignorance prevails to racialised patterns, with a reliance on seeing the matter solely as a social-class issue, or distraction by wanting to debate the genetic predispositions that some people may have to poor health, with neither being helpful.

The impacts on physical and mental health of racism in the NHS, as well as wider society, needs to be acted upon.

Kline and Warmington's report (2024) also questioned why concerns about racism are not heard or acted on. They focused specifically on the experiences of Black and minority ethnic staff within the NHS regarding racism and the challenges faced in raising concerns. It used survey data, analysis of employment tribunal cases, and qualitative testimonies to illustrate the pervasive nature of the problem and the institutional barriers that prevent effective action. Key survey findings from over 1300 NHS staff found: