The NHS is taking significant steps to address antisemitism following the findings of an independent government-commissioned review. The report, led by Lord Mann, the UK government’s independent adviser on antisemitism, revealed that many Jewish patients and staff experience discrimination, exclusion, and hostility within the health service.
According to the review, antisemitism has become a serious concern within parts of the NHS. Some Jewish patients reportedly feel uncomfortable revealing their identity and, in certain cases, have delayed or avoided seeking medical treatment because they feared prejudice or unfair treatment. Jewish members of staff have also reported feeling isolated and unsupported, with many choosing to remain silent about their experiences rather than speak out.
In response to these findings, the NHS has announced several measures aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive environment. These include limiting the display of political symbols on staff uniforms and introducing mandatory antisemitism and anti-racism training for the chairs and chief executives of all NHS trusts in England. The training is expected to be completed within the next six months.
Lord Mann’s report argues that discrimination against Jewish people undermines one of the NHS’s core principles: providing equal care for everyone. He stresses that no patient should feel the need to hide their identity when seeking healthcare, and no staff member should feel unsafe or excluded in their workplace. The report also highlights cases of intimidation, abuse, and discriminatory behaviour that have affected both patients and employees.
The review was commissioned by Health Secretary Wes Streeting after concerns were raised about antisemitic comments and behaviour by some healthcare professionals. In recent years, several doctors have faced disciplinary action for antisemitic conduct. Two doctors, Manoj Sen and Mohammed Asif Munaf, were removed from the medical register and banned from practising medicine in the UK. Another doctor, Rahmeh Aladwan, is due to face trial on charges related to alleged support for Hamas and the use of inflammatory and offensive language.
Although the review focuses on antisemitism, the proposed NHS reforms are intended to tackle all forms of racism and discrimination, including Islamophobia and prejudice against Black and ethnic minority staff. The aim is to ensure that every employee and patient is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
Recent NHS staff surveys indicate that Jewish employees are currently the only religious group reporting an increase in workplace discrimination. Some have stated that their experiences have become so distressing that they have considered leaving the profession altogether.
Healthcare leaders and professional organisations have welcomed the report. Rebecca Gray of the NHS Alliance emphasised the importance of ensuring that Jewish staff and patients feel safe and respected within healthcare settings. Similarly, Professor Nicola Ranger, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Nursing, warned that racism, harassment, and abuse have become increasingly common across the NHS and must be addressed urgently.
The General Medical Council (GMC), which regulates doctors in the UK, has also seen a significant rise in complaints related to alleged antisemitism. Between October 2023 and December 2025, the GMC received hundreds of complaints and investigated dozens of cases. While some resulted in disciplinary action, many investigations are still ongoing.
Overall, the report highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to combat discrimination within the NHS. The proposed reforms are intended not only to address antisemitism but also to strengthen equality, inclusion, and trust across the entire healthcare system.
