Jewish NHS staff and patients have reported feeling compelled to conceal their identity and 'suffer in silence', according to a government-commissioned review into anti-Semitism within the health service. The Department of Health and Social Care stated that the review, led by Lord Mann, the government's independent adviser on anti-Semitism, uncovered instances of routine ostracism, with some employees contemplating leaving the NHS altogether.
Key findings and recommendations
Lord Mann's report, which is set to be presented to Parliament, highlights that some Jewish patients have delayed or avoided seeking NHS treatment due to concerns about anti-Semitism. The review calls on the NHS to become 'a responsible and inclusive employer' and outlines a series of recommendations to address the issue.
Government response
In response, the government has announced several measures. A new staff standard will be established to set expectations for how NHS organisations must prevent, respond to, and learn from incidents of racism. Additionally, mandatory anti-racism training, specifically covering anti-Semitism, will be introduced for NHS bosses and trust chairmen within six months. Existing mandatory training on equality, diversity, and human rights for all NHS staff will be updated to include 'quality assured content' on anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim hostility.
Health Secretary James Murray condemned racism and discrimination, stating they 'betray everything the NHS stands for and its ability to provide safe, world-class care'. He confirmed the government is accepting Lord Mann's recommendations and will work with NHS England to implement them promptly.
Context of rising anti-Semitism
The review follows a separate report published in July 2025 by Lord Mann and former Conservative minister Dame Penny Mordaunt, which warned of rising anti-Semitism across British society, including a 'specific issue' within the NHS. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commissioned the latest review, citing 'clear cases' of anti-Semitism in the NHS that were not being addressed.
Lord Mann emphasised the need for consistency: 'Jewish people have to be confident that they will receive the same treatment as everyone else, at all times, in all situations. If people feel, as they do, that some have to hide their identity as patients or suffer in silence as staff, then the universality of the NHS is fundamentally breached.'
