NHS Dorset has said it has a “zero tolerance” stance on racism and discriminatory behaviour as it hits out at “appalling acts” in the riots.
Dorset’s healthcare leaders – including Patricia Miller the chief executive of the integrated care board, University Hospitals Dorset’s chief executive Siobhan Harrington and Matthew Bryant, the chief executive of Dorset County Hospital and Dorset HealthCare trusts – have condemned the far-right riots seen across the country.
In an open statement by the three, they said they “stand together as one” to condemn the “appalling acts of racism” seen in recent days.
They added that there is “no excuse” for those rioting or being racist, adding they don’t represent the country and its values that “led to the creation of the NHS and have kept it going ever since”.
Almost 200 nationalities work in the NHS nationwide making up 19 per cent of the workforce - around 265,000 out of 1.5 million staff reported a non-British nationality in June 2023.
The leaders said: “We believe these protests do not represent the values and beliefs of the people of Dorset – in the work we do we see so many positive examples of strong, diverse communities, where difference is welcomed and people of different backgrounds come together to offer each other help and support.
“We want to praise and thank health and care colleagues along with our emergency service partners who have supported those people who have been affected by violence and those who have perpetrated it.
“We have zero tolerance for racism and discriminatory behaviour. We stand together against hate and are proud to welcome people of all backgrounds as valued members of our communities.
“We must remember that many people might feel scared and unwelcome because of the racism seen during these events and the violent and abusive way in which people have protested.
“To our NHS colleagues, our message is simple: we pride ourselves on our diversity and you are welcome. You are a valued member of our community.
“To anyone witnessing racism or discriminatory behaviour, it is vital hate crimes are reported. Advice on what to look out for and how to report is available on the Dorset Police website at www.dorset.police.uk/hatecrime.”
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