GMC statement on UK riots and civil disorder

Our Chief Executive and Registrar, Charlie Massey, has responded to the violent riots and disorder in the UK. ‘We are shocked and distressed by the racially targeted violence, Islamophobia and civil disorder taking place in some of the UK’s towns and cities. 

‘We recognise the significant impact these disgraceful acts will be having on doctors and other staff working in our health services, as well as members of the public - particularly those from the Muslim community or minority ethnic or non-UK backgrounds. We are also aware of the emotional impact of these events on our own staff, and are offering support to those who need it.

‘A significant number of the doctors on our register qualified abroad or are from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, and we are grateful for the invaluable contribution they make to our health services. Everyone has the right to come to work without fear of racism and it is wholly unacceptable that people should feel unsafe at work or at home. 

‘We have a dedicated resource on our website for doctors who experience racism in the workplace, which makes it clear such treatment should not be tolerated. Respecting people and treating them without prejudice is one of our main values. We welcome calls for healthcare leaders to show a zero tolerance approach and take definitive action on racism, discrimination or prejudice in any form.'

-Ends

• Our ethical hub, Racism in the workplace, provides advice on how our guidance principles on non-discrimination apply when tackling racism and makes it clear tackling discrimination and creating an inclusive working environment is everyone’s responsibility. This includes what to do in non-emergency and  emergency settings and what doctors should do if they witness racism.

This statement was updated on 29 October 2024. Islamophobia has no place in medicine and our wider society and we’re grateful to the British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) for their ongoing contribution to our work.