Public statement in response to riots and violence

Published: 8 August 2024

Over recent days we have been shocked and horrified by the actions of a minority of people across the country who are using violence and intimidation to stir up hatred and distrust.

We want to be very clear – we completely condemn this racist violence. We stand with our NHS colleagues and the communities they live and work in. We believe that in our diversity is our strength.

We know that many of our people have felt, and continue to feel worried, anxious and scared by what is happening. We hope that, following the examples of communities coming together all over the country last night, the tide is turning against this minority of people who do not speak for us or the values we hold dear.

We are proud of how our people and communities have come together to support each other this week. We have heard so many stories of kindness, care and consideration to our much-valued NHS and social care staff and colleagues working in partner organisations which have been truly heart-warming.

At Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust we do not tolerate any form of discrimination, harassment, bullying or violence and we challenge and address unwanted, harmful or inappropriate behaviours, words and actions. This is clearly laid out in our Board’s pledge to our people and in our culture charter.

We expect people who use our services to treat those who are caring for them with courtesy, kindness and respect and vice versa. We will take action against those who do not.

Our people priority is to build a culture at work where our people feel safe, healthy and supported. Sadly, these recent events have meant that a number of our people are reporting that they do not feel safe coming to work.

While we have a wide range of support (both practical and compassionate) in place to support our people, we all have a responsibility and role to play in making both our NHS and our country a place where we all feel we belong. We ask for your support in ensuring that all our NHS, social care, domiciliary care and care home colleagues feel safe and welcome. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive and respectful community where we can all live and work safely.

We believe very strongly that there is no place for hate in our homes, on our streets, in our clinics, in our hospitals, in our NHS or in our country.

We thank our people, our communities and our colleagues in emergency services locally, regionally and nationally for everything they are doing to help to keep our people and communities safe for everyone.

Please continue to take care of yourselves and each other.

Professor Chris Balch
Chair

Liz Davenport
Chief Executive