Isle Of Wight Healthcare Trust Commits to Becoming Anti-Racist Organisation

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has announced a bold new action plan to tackle racism — with Island staff, patients and communities at the heart of its commitment.

The Trust, which delivers healthcare across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire, says it is determined to become an anti-racist organisation, embedding equity across all areas of its work.

It follows national evidence showing people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds often face stark inequalities when accessing mental health services.

The Trust’s own figures also revealed that nearly 39% of staff from ethnic minority backgrounds reported experiencing harassment, bullying or abuse from patients or the public in the past year.

Anna Rowen, the Trust’s Director of People and Culture, said:

“The data is clear; racism is harming our staff and our communities, and we cannot and will not look away. This is not just a campaign; it’s a cultural transformation.”

The new Anti-Racist Action Plan was co-developed with input from 1,500 staff and more than 500 people across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, including service users, carers, faith leaders, young people and people with disabilities.

Islanders were among those who helped shape the plan, which sets out nine areas of focus — including leadership, workforce diversity, digital inclusion and cultural awareness.

The Trust’s Board has pledged zero tolerance for racism in any form, saying:

“Everyone has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued.

"We are taking active steps to challenge discrimination, remove barriers, and build an inclusive culture where equity is at the heart of everything we do.”

Chief Executive Ron Shields added:

“This is a defining moment for our organisation. We are moving beyond recognising inequality — we are actively dismantling it.”

Island residents are encouraged to take part in the journey by reporting incidents of racism, raising awareness in their communities, and engaging with staff networks and workshops.