Responding to the far-right race riots in recent days, RCN General Secretary and Chief Executive, Professor Nicola Ranger, said:
“Migrant nursing staff are precious members of our communities, hardwired into the very DNA of our health and care services – we ask government to ensure that anybody targeting them pays a very heavy price. Whether in their first months working here, or after decades working in our health system, our international colleagues are welcome, valued and owed a debt of gratitude.
“These scenes around the country are nothing short of despicable racism - they have no place in our society and we join fully in the condemnation of them. As an anti-racist organisation, the RCN will take a lead part in tackling this hatred wherever it rears its head.
“Employers have a duty of care to keep their staff safe at work. That includes those working in hospitals, but also those delivering care alone in community settings. Health leaders need to act urgently to reassure staff, review risk assessments and implement any measures necessary to keep workers safe.
“Nursing staff of every nationality and ethnic heritage are holding the health service together, dealing with the fallout of these racist attacks. They are a credit to our profession and a powerful reminder of the strength we find in diversity and unity.”
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