Standing Together Against Antisemitism and All Forms of Hatred

An open letter sent on behalf of Vanessa Whatley, Executive Lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and Chief Nursing Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

Dear colleagues, 

As part of our shared commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for everyone, we are taking further action to strengthen our stance against all forms of hatred and discrimination, including antisemitism. 

NHS England has formally adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism. This is in line with the UK Government and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). 

The definition helps us identify and address antisemitism in contemporary contexts - including the denial of the Holocaust, the use of antisemitic conspiracy theories, or the targeting of Jewish people by using Israel as a proxy. It is also clear that criticism of Israel, comparable to that made against any other country, is not antisemitic. 

This is part of our zero-tolerance approach to antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, and all other forms of hatred or discriminatory behaviour. Our goal is to ensure that every NHS workplace and service within our system is a place where everyone feels safe, valued, and supported - regardless of their background, faith or identity.  

Through our ‘Everyone Belongs Here’ campaign, we are championing a culture of inclusion, equality, and belonging across our health and care system in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin. We will continue to build on this commitment so that everyone feels valued, supported, and part of our shared mission. 

What’s changing? 

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Training:
  We are updating the ‘Equality, Diversity and Human Rights’ mandatory training module to include strengthened content on antisemitism and Islamophobia. Once available, all staff within NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin will be asked to refresh this training. 

• Uniform and Workwear Guidance:
  Updated guidance across all NHS trusts and organisations will ensure we continue to support freedom of religious expression, uphold patient comfort and safety, and maintain professionalism in all health and care settings. 

• Future Framework:
  Nationally, a new Statutory and Mandatory Training Competency Framework will replace the current Core Skills Training Framework by April 2026, further embedding these commitments across the NHS. 

Why it matters? 

In times of tension and division, our workplaces must continue to be safe, inclusive spaces. During recent national events, NHS organisations have shown leadership in standing against racism and Islamophobia. We must now show the same determination in addressing antisemitism and all forms of hate. 

Thank you for your ongoing compassion, and commitment to equality and inclusion. By standing together, we send a clear message:

Hatred and discrimination have no place in NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, or anywhere across the NHS.

Kind regards, 

Vanessa Whatley  

Executive Lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) and Chief Nursing Officer
NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin