The NHS is set to restrict staff from displaying political symbols on their uniforms following a government-ordered review that found Jewish patients and staff face 'routine ostracism' within the health service. The review, led by Lord Mann, the government's adviser on antisemitism, highlights that anti-Jewish hatred is so pervasive that some Jewish patients hide their identity and staff 'suffer in silence'.
The 60-page report, due for publication on Thursday, warns that antisemitism threatens the NHS's basis as a universal service, with Jews not confident they will receive proper treatment. Lord Mann will outline 'shocking examples of intimidation and abuse', including Jewish patients delaying or avoiding treatment due to fear of discrimination.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting commissioned the review last year after reports of doctors making antisemitic comments. Two doctors, Manoj Sen and Mohammed Asif Munaf, have been struck off the medical register for antisemitic behaviour. Another doctor, Rahmeh Aladwan, is due to stand trial next year on charges including inviting support for Hamas.
The NHS will now implement changes as an 'urgent priority', including mandatory anti-racism training for all trust chairs and chief executives within six months. The moves will target all forms of racism, including Islamophobia and discrimination against black and ethnic minority staff. Jewish staff are the only religious group reporting growing discrimination from colleagues, with some considering leaving the profession.
Rebecca Gray, a director at the NHS Alliance, said the arson attack on a Hatzola ambulance station in Golders Green in April showed how antisemitism has reached health services. The General Medical Council received 779 complaints of alleged antisemitism by UK doctors between October 2023 and December 2025, investigating 86 cases.
