Regulator vows to prioritise racism review recommendations

The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has said it will prioritise the implementation of recommendations made to health regulators as part of the Mann review on antisemitism and other forms of racism in the NHS. 

The pharmacy regulator said in a statement, made following publication of the review on 4 June 2026, that it would also “carefully consider the review’s findings and recommendations as we review and update our standards and guidance”.

Kathie Cashell, chief executive of the GPhC, said that the regulator published both an anti-racism statement and a statement on discrimination in May 2026, which respectively set out a zero-tolerance approach to racism, and emphasised that fairness, equality and respect must underpin all pharmacy services and regulatory decisions.  

“This report lays bare the shocking impact of antisemitism and other forms of racism within the NHS, experienced by both staff and patients. We agree with Lord Mann that urgent, demonstrable and visible action is needed by all leaders across health and social care to address this,” Cashell said.

“We are committed to tackling antisemitism and all other forms of racism, and to lead by example in promoting and embedding equality, diversity and inclusion across pharmacy and other health and care settings.

“We welcome the review’s recommendations and will prioritise reviewing and implementing the recommendations for health professional regulators. We will also carefully consider the review’s findings and recommendations as we review and update our standards and guidance.”

The review, commissioned by then health secretary Wes Streeting, and prime minister Keir Starmer in October 2025, asked Lord John Mann, the government independent adviser on antisemitism, to lead a review into how the NHS and its regulatory system recognises, reports and tackles antisemitism and other forms of racism.

Among the recommendations for regulators included in the report are that they should develop a clear process for securing expert advice on fitness to practise decisions, particularly where they involve matters relevant to those with protected characteristics, and that they work with the government and NHS England to develop a clear, single set of national guidance for employers, clearly defining employers’ responsibilities in tackling discrimination incidents.

Commenting on the Mann review, Amandeep Doll, director for England at the Royal College of Pharmacy, said: “We welcome the government’s clear commitment to tackling antisemitism and all forms of racism across the NHS. It’s vital that every member of the pharmacy workforce, and every patient, feels safe, respected and able to be their true self.

“The findings underline the need for strong leadership, accountability and a culture where discrimination is actively challenged. Mandatory, high-quality training and clear national standards play an important role and must be supported by meaningful action, effective reporting mechanisms, and consequences where standards are not met.

“Pharmacy teams work at the heart of communities and across the health system. Creating inclusive, anti-racist workplaces is essential to retaining a diverse workforce, improving staff wellbeing, and ensuring person-centred patient care.”