Black Doctors Four Times Less Likely for NHS Training

Analysis of NHS England data indicates that black doctors are four times less likely to be offered specialist medical training positions than white doctors. This disparity is even more pronounced in certain fields; for example, black applicants for anaesthetics core training in 2024 had a less than 1 in 100 chance of an offer, significantly lower than white applicants.

While ethnic minority candidates are often shortlisted at similar rates to white candidates, they are considerably less likely to receive an offer. This suggests that systemic racism and implicit bias may be influencing final selection decisions. Experts point to potential issues with the selection process, including panel training and the impact of personal connections.

Concerns have been raised about NHS England's adherence to public service equality duties, given these ethnicity-based disparities. The figures have been described as "dismal" and "alarming," with calls for clear leadership, accountability, and evidence-based interventions to address racial inequity in medical training. NHS England states it is improving recruitment processes and requires regular diversity training for interview panellists.