Racism in care work often takes subtle forms. You may be asked where you are really from, have your qualifications questioned, or be given the worst shifts. You may be told you are too sensitive or that it was just a joke.
This guide helps you recognise racism and microaggressions, protect yourself, and challenge discriminatory behaviour.
What Are Microaggressions?
Microaggressions are subtle, often unintentional acts of discrimination. Examples include:
Mispronouncing or refusing to use your correct nameAsking where you are really fromTouching your hair without permissionExpressing surprise at your qualifications or English fluencyAssuming you are less qualified than white colleaguesThese may seem small, but they accumulate and create a hostile environment.
Recognising Patterns
Racism is often a pattern, not a single incident. Watch for:
Being given the least desirable shiftsBeing excluded from meetings or social eventsHaving your work scrutinised more than othersBeing interrupted or spoken over in meetingsColleagues making jokes about your culture or accentHow to Respond in the Moment
If safe to do so, address it calmly:
My name is [name]. Please use it.I was born in [city]. Where are you from?I would prefer you did not touch my hair.That comment made me uncomfortable. Can you explain what you meant?You do not have to educate anyone. But sometimes, calmly naming the behaviour can stop it.
Document Everything
Keep a record of:
Date, time, and locationWhat was said or doneWho was presentHow it made you feelWhether you reported itThis evidence is critical if you decide to raise a grievance or tribunal claim.
When to Escalate
Raise a formal grievance if:
The behaviour continues after you have addressed itIt is affecting your work or mental healthYour manager is not taking it seriouslyYou are being treated differently because of your raceLegal Protections
Under the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from:
Direct discrimination (being treated worse because of your race)Harassment (unwanted conduct that creates a hostile environment)Victimisation (being treated badly because you complained about discrimination)You can bring a claim to an employment tribunal if your employer does not address the issue.
What If the Racism Comes from Residents?
Residents may say racist things due to dementia, confusion, or learned prejudice. However:
Your employer must still protect youYou should not be expected to tolerate abuseYour employer should offer you support and alternative assignments if possibleIf your employer tells you to just deal with it, this is not acceptable.
Find Support
Talk to:
Your union repACAS (0300 123 1100)Equality Advisory and Support Service (0808 800 0082)A trusted colleague or mentorYou do not have to face this alone.