The statement follows the “civil unrest, criminality and racist attacks” reported across the UK in August 2024.
Attacks have been reported on healthcare professionals, “especially those of ethnic minorities”, with violent and abusive behaviour having been witnessed.
Chris Kenny, MDDUS chief executive, said, "Healthcare workers from minority ethnic backgrounds and those who qualified overseas and are registered to practise here are part of the backbone of the NHS.
"We stand on the side of everyone working at the frontline of healthcare. We are appalled to hear of healthcare workers being targeted with abuse and violence amidst the civil unrest and rioting in recent days.”
Amanda Pritchard, NHS chief executive, has also spoken out against the attacks and violence, calling it a “flare-up of racism”.
She has prompted leaders to show in their conduct that the NHS has “zero tolerance of racism” and that they “really mean it”.
Chris added, "There is no excuse or justification for what has been happening on our streets. All healthcare workers deserve to go to work in safety and without fear of racist abuse or attack.
"The whole NHS leadership must now demonstrate that everyone working in healthcare is welcome and valued and that the anger and violence we have witnessed will not prevail."
References available on request.