The National Health Service is introducing measures to address antisemitism after a government-commissioned review revealed that Jewish patients and employees encounter routine exclusion within the system. The findings indicate that anti-Jewish prejudice leads some individuals to conceal their identity and others to endure mistreatment quietly. Lord Mann, the government’s adviser on antisemitism, conducted the review and will publish his 60-page report on Thursday. Recommendations include restricting NHS staff from displaying political symbols on uniforms and requiring leaders of England’s 205 health trusts to complete antisemitism training. The report states that antisemitism undermines the NHS principle of universal care, as Jewish people lack confidence in receiving equitable treatment. It describes cases where patients avoided or delayed care due to prejudice and notes instances of intimidation and abuse. The review was commissioned last year following reports of doctors making antisemitic remarks. Two physicians have since been removed from the medical register for such conduct, while another faces trial next year on related charges. The NHS will implement changes to become a more inclusive employer, addressing all forms of racism including discrimination against minority staff and Islamophobia. Recent workforce surveys show Jewish employees as the only religious group reporting increased bias from colleagues, with some considering leaving their roles. Health providers are expected to serve as the primary defense against discrimination. Trust chairs and chief executives must complete mandatory anti-racism training, covering antisemitism, within six months. Professional bodies have recorded hundreds of complaints about alleged antisemitic behavior by doctors since late 2023, leading to investigations and sanctions. Health officials and nursing leaders welcomed the steps to reduce racism across the service.
