Racism is still a “harsh reality” for many ethnic minority doctors in Scotland, with a new report revealing nearly two-thirds have experienced or witnessed incidents in the workplace.

A survey carried out by BMA Scotland has revealed alarming levels of inequality, including a widening gap in first-time job application success rates between white and non-white doctors, and that ethnic minority doctors are more likely to raise grievance complaints, but be less satisfied with the outcome.

The findings also show an increase in reports of racist incidents since the survey was last carried out in 2021 and suggests many racist incidents are going unaddressed, perpetuating a workplace culture where racism remains underreported and unchallenged.

The main findings of the report include:

• 64% of non-white doctors report they have either experienced (41%) or witnessed (23%) incidents of racism. Among Asian doctors, the figures are particularly striking, with 44% experiencing racism and 24% witnessing it.
• This is an increase compared to the previous survey in 2021, when 62% of all non-white doctors reported they had either experienced (40%) or witnessed (22%) incidents of racism.
• Only 11% of non-white doctors took the step to formally raise a complaint about a racist incident, a 6% decrease on the 2021 survey.
• The success in first-time job applications for non-white doctors fell from 48% in 2021 to 43% in 2024. In contrast, white doctors saw success rates rise from 61% in 2021 to 67% in 2024.
• Among those who filed workplace grievances, 41 percent were ethnic minorities compared to only 20 percent of white doctors. However 79% of ethnic minority doctors reported dissatisfaction with their complaint resolutions, compared to 63% of white doctors.

Dr Sajid Farid, Chair of BMA Scotland’s Race Equality Forum, said: “This report shines a light on the harsh reality that many ethnic minority doctors in Scotland are still experiencing racism personally or witnessing incidents.

“It shows that racism is clearly still far too common and serious an issue in the medical profession. Little has changed in the four years since we last carried out the survey – indeed, the findings suggest it is an issue which is getting worse.

“Despite increasing recognition and awareness of the deeply entrenched issues of racism and inequality, there has been a lack of progress in tackling discrimination which exists in the NHS and it remains far too prevalent.

“This report highlights the need for urgent and effective action and we call on the Scottish Government and NHS boards to do much more to address the issue and do more to prioritise the wellbeing and professional growth of all ethnic minority doctors, which will also ensure high-quality patient care.

“Tackling inequality within the NHS workforce is a complex issue which does not have one solution and a number of different approaches will be required.
“This includes working to increase the diversity of those who are recruited, for example by reviewing recruitment processes and removing potential barriers to entry,

“There must be proactive steps taken to create a culture of inclusion in the NHS, which must start at the top with managers and leadership and include making sure that all employees receive training on topics such as unconscious bias, cultural awareness, and diversity and inclusion.

“Mentoring can play a crucial role in encouraging and supporting individuals from underrepresented groups to progress and strategies must be developed to help non-white doctors develop their careers, including into senior medical leadership roles.

“The findings of the survey show that far more has to be done to investigate and take action on complaints raised by non-white doctors regarding racist incidents, as well as other workplace issues. A zero-tolerance approach must be taken to discrimination and harassment, so that ethnic minority doctors, who are a vital part of the workforce in Scotland, feel valued and supported to have a long and fulfilling career in the NHS.”

 

Notes to editors

• The 2024 Scottish Race Equality Forum survey received 715 responses from members and non-members from health boards across Scotland. In terms of ethnic minority doctors, Asians made up the largest group at 27%, with other ethnic groups including mixed (4%), African (3%), and other backgrounds (4%).
• The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.