Recognising the role black and ethnic minority colleagues play
Black History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions people of African and Caribbean heritage have made to Britain's economy, culture, and history.
We are proud to recognise the key role black and ethnic minority colleagues play, not just this month but every day.
Their role in our NHS dates back to 1948. This was the year that saw the birth of the NHS. It was also the year that over 1,000 people from the West Indies arrived in the UK on board HMT Empire Windrush.
In the early days of the health service, black and ethnic minority colleagues did not always have an easy journey. They were not always welcome, and many were faced with racism, discrimination and public outcry.
Today, those colleagues make up almost a quarter of the NHS workforce and 42% of medical staff.
Black History Month 2023
We know that black women in the UK have been making a difference across many industries for decades, but perhaps without the recognition they deserve.
The theme for this year's Black History Month is 'Saluting our Sisters'. It aims to recognise the achievements of black women and honour the crucial role they have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities.
As part of Black History Month, we are celebrating the talent and achievements of our senior leaders of female ethnic minority colleagues.
We are proud to showcase the stories of those who now call Cornwall home, as their NHS careers continue to thrive.
Visibility in leadership and senior roles can speed up our ability to provide equitable access to care and innovation. We hope that sharing these stories will inspire, attract, grow, and retain staff as we continue our work to become more inclusive.