We often hear the phrase “We’ve come a long way” when talking about diversity in healthcare—and yes, it’s true. Across the UK, we’re seeing more Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic professionals entering medicine and rising into leadership roles. In areas where historically doors were firmly closed, some are finally beginning to open.

But let’s be honest. A few open doors don’t mean the whole building is accessible.

Yes, there’s growth in racial diversity across the sector. According to The Guardian, the General Medical Council reported that the UK now has more doctors from ethnic minority backgrounds than white ones, following a 78% rise in ethnic minority doctors between 2016 and 2023, compared to just a 10% increase in white doctors. That matters. But it’s not the full story—and we do ourselves a disservice if we pretend it is.

Many of the systemic barriers remain intact.

• Disparities in promotion and access to career progression continue to push minoritised professionals out of the pipeline.
• Discrimination—both subtle and overt—remains routine, not rare.
• And in too many boardrooms, the faces around the table still don’t reflect the diversity of the frontline—or the patients being served.

This isn’t just a moral issue. It’s a patient safety issue. Research from The King’s Fund shows that compassionate and inclusive leadership leads to more engaged and motivated staff with high levels of wellbeing, which in turn results in high-quality care. Similarly, studies published in BMJ Leader highlight that inclusive leadership in health professions education is essential for creating environments where all staff feel valued and can contribute effectively.

So the stakes are high—and deeply human.

Progress should be acknowledged, yes. But it must not be mistaken for a job done.

What’s needed now?

• Investment in mentorship and sponsorship pipelines that elevate Black and Asian talent.
• Leadership structures that don’t just ‘accommodate’ difference but value and resource it.
• Systems that go beyond performative allyship and actively dismantle barriers.

This is why we created the National B.A.M.E Health & Care Awards—to celebrate the people and programmes that aren’t waiting for permission to make change happen.

Nominations are open until 27 June. Let’s spotlight the innovators, advocates and changemakers who are shaping a more just, more inclusive future for UK health and care.

Nominate Someone Today

Because progress is worth celebrating—but equity is the goal.