The Society of Radiographers has joined seven of its fellow trade unions in cosigning a statement rejecting anti-migrant and racist rhetoric.
Following the ‘Unite the Kingdom' march in London this September, the British Medical Association (BMA) issued a statement addressing racism and anti-migrant sentiment and calling for trade unions to stand firmly against all forms of discrimination and prejudice, and send a strong signal of support to the international workforce.
The statement, which has been backed by organisations including the Royal College of Nursing, Unison, Unite and the Hospital Consultants and Specialists Association, calls on politicians and the media to end the spread of misinformation which is resulting in the “blatant scapegoating of migrant communities”.
Rejecting racism and xenophobia
Richard Evans, CEO of the SoR, said: “By signing this statement, the SoR stands firmly with colleagues across health and social care in rejecting the scapegoating of overseas workers. Our NHS depends on international expertise and dedication; without it, patient care would collapse. We also support this statement because fairness, respect, and inclusion are not optional - they are the essential foundation of a workforce that delivers for everyone.”
At a time of escalating hostile rhetoric towards migrants in the UK, the statement highlights the importance of upholding the values of dignity, respect and equality for all individuals, and rejects all forms of racism and xenophobia.
The rights of those who live and work in the UK to continue to make the UK their home are being openly questioned, including tens of thousands of people working within the health and social care sector.
During the Trades Union Congress conference last month, the SoR supported a motion seeking to assert that migrant workers should not be scapegoats for the difficulties facing the labour market.
'People are unsettled and frightened'
Signed by BMA deputy chair of council Emma Runswick, the statement also reaffirms the signatory unions' support and solidarity for the NHS’ international workforce and calls for the promotion of policies that foster inclusion, empathy and understanding towards all immigrants who have chosen to make the UK their home.
It adds: “People are unsettled and frightened, with some directly experiencing hate and violence at work and within their communities. Together we will continue to advocate for policies that promote inclusion, protect human rights, and foster a culture of empathy and understanding.”
The health and social care sector in the UK has always been reliant on the commitment and expertise of its international workforce. Figures from NHS England and Skills for Care show that in England, 776,000 workers – around a quarter of the total workforce – are non-British nationals.
Signatories to the statement affirm their solidarity with the international workforce and migrant communities, recognising their essential past and continued contribution to the NHS and wider society.
Read the full statement online here now.
(Image: Emma Runswick, BMA deputy chair of council, via the BMA)