RCM responds to PHE report on ‘Disparities in the risk and outcomes of COVID-19

on 02 June 2020 Midwives RCM Midwifery Maternity Services RCM CEO NHS Staff

Commenting on Public Health England’s report, Disparities in the risk and outcomes of COVID-19, RCM Chief Executive Gill Walton said:

“Today’s report tells us what we already knew: that those from black and Asian backgrounds have been disproportionately affected by this pandemic. While this affirmation is helpful, without clear steps by the Government, it does nothing to protect people, particularly NHS staff who are likely to have heightened exposure to the virus. 

“Clear guidance and support must be given to NHS Trusts and Boards so that risks are assessed sensitively, confidentially and in partnership with staff – and, most importantly, acted upon. And we all have a duty to ensure that our black and Asian midwives and maternity support workers, who are understandably anxious, are encouraged to seek out those assessments without fear. Racism and unconscious bias have no place in the NHS and we will do all we can to eradicate it from maternity services.”

ENDS

To contact the RCM Media Relations Team call 020 7312 3456 or email media@rcm.org.uk.

 

Notes to Editors

1. Public Health England (PHE) report: Disparities in the risk and outcomes of COVID-19 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/889195/disparities_review.pdf

 

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources www.rcm.org.uk