An overview of workforce data for nurses, midwives and health visitors in the NHS

One in every five nurses, midwives and health visitors in the NHS is from a black and minority ethnic (BME) background. However, evidence shows that the experiences of staff within this 20% of our workforce and their access to opportunities for development and progression still do not yet correspond with those of their white colleagues; the gap is still stark in many places.

This report outlines: where we are now on improving black and minority ethnic (BME) progression into senior nursing, midwifery and health visitor positions across the NHS; work already underway; and the next steps planned to support organisations to make continuous improvements over time and ultimately to deliver the 2028 commitment.