New research reveals NHS risks exodus of ethnic minority talent

Talented communications professionals from ethnic minority backgrounds are being driven out of careers in NHS communication due to pervasive feelings of poor relationships with managers, lack of career progression and structural racism, according to new research.

A survey conducted by the Taskforce for Diversity in NHS Communications collected views from over 300 ethnic minority communication and engagement specialists from the NHS, charity and commercial sectors. It examines their unique experiences and challenges.

The survey reveals that despite the high levels of education and career ambitions among ethnic minority communicators, many who were once drawn to the NHS by its mission to serve the community and make a difference, are now disillusioned and departing due to negative experiences.

Twenty-six per cent (26%) of ethnic minority NHS communications professionals do not envisage remaining in their roles three years from now, citing poor relationships with management (37%), dissatisfaction with the institution (34%) and structural racism (32%) as key reasons.