We must do all we can to combat health inequalities

Read our response to evidence from Public Health England that COVID-19 is having a disproportionate impact on people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities.

Following the events in the US and news here about the disproportionate impact COVID-19 has had on people from Black, Asian, and Ethnic Minority communities, our National Director, Imelda Redmond said:

“We stand in solidarity with people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities we serve. Recent events must make us all stop, question ourselves and ask what we can all do better.

“What can we do to stand up against racism? How can we help society understand the reasons why people from Black and Asian communities have been so disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 outbreak? What more can we do to ensure equality and celebrate diversity?

“Local Healthwatch services have done much to champion the voices of those who are often overlooked or go unheard, but we must do more to help change the ways things are done.

“In our work to help communities recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to all listen to the stories of those affected, make sure that everyone’s voices matter and that lessons are learned.

“If you have had an experience of health and care support, whether good or bad, that services could learn from, I appeal to you come forward, talk to your local Healthwatch and have your say”.

Together we can play our part in tackling health inequality and creating a fairer society for all.

How can I share my experience?

We are calling out for people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds to share their healthcare experiences during COVID-19, to help services learn and improve.

You can share your experience by completing our online form, or contacting your local Healthwatch.

Have your say