Newcastle Hospitals has launched a new anti-racism framework as part of its commitment to creating a fairer, more inclusive environment for staff, patients and local communities.
The framework was formally introduced at a dedicated event bringing together colleagues and community representatives to discuss the impact of racism and the actions needed to tackle it.
The event included an introduction to the trust’s anti-racism framework, discussions on racial inequality, and a panel discussion featuring Newcastle United legend and Show Racism the Red Card ambassador Olivier Bernard, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner Susan Dungworth, Newcastle Hospitals Acting Chief Executive Robert Harrison, Medical Director Michael Wright, and Professor Donna Chambers, who shared their perspectives on the importance of tackling racism and creating lasting change.
Attendees also heard a powerful spoken word performance and were invited to make personal pledges in support of anti-racist action.
Alongside the launch, Newcastle Hospitals has rolled out anti-racism training for staff, delivered with support from Show Racism the Red Card.
The training programme is designed to increase understanding of racism, equip colleagues with the confidence to challenge it and empower them to take meaningful action across the organisation.
Racism can affect how people feel at work, the opportunities available to them and their experience of receiving care. Through the framework, the trust aims to listen to those experiences, understand where improvements are needed and take meaningful action to address inequalities.
Lee-Ann Naido, Head of Inclusion Culture & Belonging at Newcastle Hospitals commented:
“Now is the time for action, not just more conversations. I know from personal experience that the impact of racism can go far beyond what others see or understand.
“The launch of this framework is an important step in our journey towards becoming an anti-racist organisation. It means being honest about where we need to improve, challenging racism and changing the behaviours and systems that create unfairness.
“What matters most is making a real difference to the experiences of our colleagues, patients and families. We need to hold ourselves accountable and make sure people can see and feel that change.”
The framework will help focus efforts to challenge racism, improve experiences and opportunities for staff and ensure patients receive equitable care in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
While the launch event marked an important step, trust leaders emphasised that the work will be ongoing and that progress will be measured through meaningful action and accountability across the organisation.
