Statement from the SPF co-chairs condemning racist violence

The SPF has been horrified by recent unacceptable events which have seen communities across the country experience overt racist violence and abuse.

Helga Pile and Danny Mortimer, the trade union and employer co-chairs of the national SPF, have responded with the following statement:

"We welcome the work of NHS England, system and local leaders to develop a comprehensive NHS response to the recent riots. We value and celebrate the rich diversity of our staff and the communities they serve and commit to working in partnership to stand against violence, hatred and discrimination. 

"We welcome the clear messages about the need to support staff, prioritise safety and wellbeing, and act in in close partnership with local trade unions that are set out in the NHS England letter issued yesterday.

"We encourage regional and local partnership forums to be focusing on how best to help and protect staff both through this immediate period and beyond.

"These terrible events have underlined the importance of redoubling our efforts around equality, diversity and inclusion. This remains an ongoing and urgent priority due to insufficient progress and the continued impact this has on staff experience and retention."