Barts Health praised for tackling inequality in the workplace

• Workshops aim to increase the confidence, aspirations and attainment of female and BME staff so its leadership is more representative of the workforce and local community.
• The Trust’s own research shows that people from a BME background are more likely to be working in lower paid positions than white people.
• 59 people have undertaken the programme since June; six secured promotions or secondments into senior positions and others overcame psychological barriers to achieve life-long aspirations such as passing their driving test.

Barts Health is in the forefront of NHS efforts to develop female and Black Minority Ethnic (BME) leaders after dozens of staff completed an innovative development programme.

This is increasing the confidence, aspirations and attainment of female and BME staff at the east London Trust so its leadership can be more representative of the workforce and local community.

So far 59 people have undertaken the programme, of whom six secured promotions or secondments into senior positions and others overcame psychological barriers to achieve life-long aspirations such as passing their driving test.

Caroline Alexander, Chief Nurse for NHS England (London) described Barts Health as a “role model for other NHS organisations” at a recent celebration event at The Great Hall of St Bartholomew’s Hospital.

The Trust’s own research shows that people from a BME background are more likely to be working in lower paid positions than white people. They are also less likely to gain promotion through an interview process. BME women are doubly-hit, with a disproportionate number of women in senior roles even though they make up three-quarters of the workforce.

Karlene Akindele, the project lead said: “It is possible that a culture of negative behaviours and unconscious bias is influencing the recruitment process as well as demotivating staff and affecting their aspirations. To tackle this, we are making every effort to change our culture by embracing diversity.Ensuring we recruit and retain the best possible staff is the best way to ensure we provide safe care to the people of east London.”

Walburgh Manhungira, midwifery team leader at Barking Birth Centre, said: “Since attending the course in July I am now happier, more confident and ready to enjoy my success. Improvements begin with us but impact positively on everyone. A smiley midwife encourages women to talk about any concerns, and they say ‘I hope to see you again next time’.”

Rasheed Ogunlaru, a leading coach and motivational speaker who facilitated each workshop, said: “It’s been a delight to help some of the remarkable and dedicated staff who carry out their work with real passion and professionalism. This programme has been about enabling these talented people, who aren’t often seen at higher levels within organisations, enhance their own self and professional development and in doing so enhance our remarkable National Health Service.”