Report finds East of England Ambulance Trust may have 'institutional culture of racism'
A respondent reported being told 'you don't look like I thought you would with your name'
A new report's found the East of England Ambulance Trust (EEAST) may have a 'historic and institutional culture of racism'.
It's after a survey of black and ethnic minority employees was conducted.
The trust has called the report an 'uncomfortable' and 'difficult' read.
What did the report find?
Some respondents reported:
- Staff mimicking 'monkey noises'
- Being treated differently due to the colour of their skin
- Being told 'you don't look like I thought you would with your name'
- Their names not being spelt properly on work systems
The stats
- A third of respondents said their colleagues don't make them feel included and valued
- 36% disagreed that the provided Equality and Diversity training offered was effective
- 36% said their colleagues don't recognise and respect differences that exist within diverse patient groups and the diverse locales in which they operate
- 43% disagreed that the Trust's senior management demonstrates visible commitment to promoting equal opportunities and embracing diversity
What does the trust say?
The EEAST says it's working hard to stamp out racism and wants to ensure all its staff have a sense of belonging, and are being valued and heard.
They've created an action plan, which includes:
- Bullying and harassment training included in virtual inductions
- Improving diverse imagery
- Funding for the appointment of an Ethnic Minority engagement officer included in 2023/24 business plan
- A review policies to improve equality