Violence in Belfast: ‘Racism has no place in our society’

Nursing staff in Belfast are facing disruption, fear and racism this week as a result of violence that has prevented some from getting to work and travelling home safely after their shifts, the RCN has warned.

Responding to this, Professor Rita Devlin, Executive Director of RCN Northern Ireland, said: “We’re deeply concerned about reports of nursing staff being prevented from getting to work and about their ability to travel home safely after their shifts. No member of staff should face fear or obstruction simply for going to and from their workplace.

“Some of these staff are the very same people who had to deal with the horrific injuries inflicted on an individual and they are now being prevented from going to work to help others.

“Racism has no place in our society and these attacks will have a detrimental impact upon many of our global majority colleagues who are working hard across all health care facilities in Northern Ireland.

“Employers have a duty of care to protect their staff, and health care leaders must act to reassure their workforce, review risk assessments and put in place any measures necessary to keep people safe.

“Nursing staff from all nationalities and ethnic backgrounds are holding our health service together. They are a credit to the profession, and a powerful reminder of the strength found in diversity and unity.

“Abuse of any kind, including racism, is completely unacceptable and must be called out. Whether in their first months working here, or after decades working in our health and social care services, our international colleagues are welcome, valued and deserve our gratitude. We must ensure they feel safe and valued, not just in health care environments, but throughout every aspect of society in Northern Ireland.”

If you have been affected by this and need support, get in touch with the RCN advice team.

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