Covid ‘heroes’ face hidden harassment


BAME health and social care workers who played a crucial role during the Covid-19 pandemic have suffered hidden harassment, bullying and racism at work, an inquiry by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has found.


Launched in November 2020, the inquiry examined the experiences of lower-paid workers such as healthcare assistants, porters, cleaners, security staff and care workers. It revealed that poor data collection by employers masked the scale of discrimination against BAME workers in these insecure sectors, while fear of victimisation meant many declined to raise concerns.


“Health and social care staff, particularly those on the frontline, are among the heroes of the Covid pandemic. They faced significant pressure and risk in keeping us safe,” said EHRC chairwoman Kishwer Falkner.