The theme of Black History Month 2024 was “reclaiming the narrative”.
Staff told their stories about how they and their families have worked in the NHS since its foundation and how proud they are of their contribution. Unfortunately, they also said that racial abuse and discrimination is still too present in their working days. The NHS does not tolerate such abuse and is committed to tackling it.
As part of highlighting and valuing black people’s contribution to the NHS we are proud that our chair, Cedi Frederick has been recognised as one of the NHS’ 50 most influential Black, Asian and minority ethnic people in the Health Service Journal.
Cedi Frederick, Chair of NHS Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “I am honoured to have been recognised in this way. There is more to do in building the ICB but I am pleased to see Black History Month used to give recognition of the current and past contribution of black staff to building the NHS and the Kent and Medway health system.”