NHS staff should be banned from wearing pro-Palestinian badges while on duty, according to a government-ordered review that found Jewish patients and staff face “routine ostracism” in the health service.
The recommendation, made by Lord Mann, the government’s adviser on antisemitism, is one of several from his review examining antisemitism within the NHS. The report, which was commissioned by the government, found that anti-Jewish hatred in the NHS means some patients hide their identity and staff “suffer in silence”.
“A government-ordered review by Lord Mann has recommended banning NHS staff from wearing pro-Palestinian badges, after finding 'routine ostracism' of Jewish patients and staff in the health service. The NHS has pledged to take action.”
Lord Mann’s review described “routine ostracism” of Jewish staff and patients across the health service. The report said that political symbols on uniforms, including pro-Palestinian badges, can create a hostile environment for Jewish colleagues and patients. The ban would apply to all political badges, with a particular focus on those related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, to ensure neutrality in the workplace.
The NHS has confirmed it will take action to tackle antisemitism in response to the findings. The review was commissioned amid growing concerns about the impact of the Middle East conflict on community relations in the UK, particularly in public institutions. The report noted that incidents of antisemitism had risen across the country since October 2023, and the NHS was not immune to this trend.
The review’s findings highlight a systemic problem within the health service. Jewish staff reported feeling isolated and unable to raise concerns for fear of being branded as troublemakers. Patients said they sometimes avoided disclosing their Jewish identity to healthcare providers due to fear of discrimination or substandard care. The report called for stronger whistleblowing protections and mandatory antisemitism training for all NHS staff.
While the review focused on England, the issue of antisemitism in healthcare is UK-wide. NHS England, which oversees the health service in England, will implement the recommendations. However, the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will likely consider similar measures, as the report’s findings are seen as relevant across the whole of the UK. The problem is not confined to one region, and Jewish communities across the country have expressed similar concerns about their safety in healthcare settings.
Lord Mann said: “The extent of antisemitism in the NHS is deeply troubling. Jewish staff are suffering in silence, and Jewish patients are hiding their identities. This is unacceptable in a public service that prides itself on inclusivity.” He added that the ban on political badges was a “proportionate and necessary step” to ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone.
The NHS has welcomed the report and pledged to implement its recommendations. An NHS spokesperson said: “We are committed to rooting out antisemitism in all its forms. We will work with staff and patient groups to ensure that the NHS is a place where everyone feels safe and respected.” The spokesperson confirmed that updated uniform policies would be issued within the coming months, clarifying which symbols are permitted.
Next steps include the NHS drafting new guidance on political symbols on uniforms, with a consultation period expected later in 2026. The Department of Health and Social Care will oversee the implementation, and Lord Mann will continue to monitor progress. The government has said it will ensure that the recommendations are enforced across all NHS trusts in England, with equivalent measures expected in the devolved nations.
What This Means For You
For Jewish patients and staff, the report acknowledges the discrimination they have faced and promises action. The ban on political badges aims to create a more neutral environment, so patients no longer feel they need to hide their identity. For NHS workers, clearer rules on what can be worn will remove ambiguity and reduce potential for conflict. For all patients, the changes are intended to ensure that the care they receive is not influenced by political divisions. However, some staff may feel the ban restricts their freedom of expression – a balance the NHS will need to manage carefully.