Statement regarding recent racial violence

We have been shocked and horrified by the actions of a minority of people across the country who are using violence and intimidation to stir up hatred and distrust.

We stand with our people both at GOSH and across the NHS, the communities they live in, and we want to be very clear in our condemnation of this racist violence.

We know that many of our people are worried, anxious and scared by what has been happening. We hope that, following the examples of communities coming together all over the country to condemn the riots, clean up in their aftermath and show support to one another, that the tide is turning against this minority of people who do not speak for us or our values.

We treat patients from all over the UK and the world. Our ability to provide world class care to some of the most unwell children, and the support we can offer to their families is only made possible by the different experience, perspectives and insights of all in the GOSH community which, is made up around 40% from minority ethnic backgrounds and of individual from over 100 nations.

We celebrate our diversity, the expertise and vibrancy that it brings to GOSH and the contribution migrants have made to the NHS since its foundation.

At Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust we do not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying or violence and we challenge and address unwanted, harmful or inappropriate behaviours, words and actions.

We commit to upholding an environment where our people, patients and families can expect people to treat each other with courtesy, kindness and respect.

We have put in a wide range of support, both practical and compassionate, in place to support our people, we all have a responsibility in making both our hospital and our communities a place where we all feel we belong.

We believe very strongly that there is no place for hate in our hospitals, in our NHS or on our street.