Written question WQ93835
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 9 days
Question
Does the Cabinet Secretary agree with comments made by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to the PA news agency on 6 August 2024 that people who are racist to NHS staff can and should be refused care?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care
NHS staff have the right to come to work without being in fear of racial abuse.
NHS Wales chief executive Judith Paget wrote to all NHS organisations last month, to reinforce that racism, violence, intimidation and hate has no place in Wales. She confirmed our commitment to working with the NHS to create an environment where all staff feel safe, supported and valued while delivering care.
The professional regulators are clear in their guidance to healthcare professionals about their right to refuse care when faced with racism, violence or aggression by a member of the public.