Across the UK, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals have faced weaponised referrals to regulators or employers for their support and advocacy for Palestine. Other healthcare workers have faced discrimination, racism, and Islamophobia in the workplace.

A recent BIMA survey, published in Medicine, Conflict and Survival, revealed that healthcare professionals who speak out against injustices, such as the genocide in Gaza, often face silencing and retaliation. 

Our BIMA Support Clinic was established to meet this urgent need,  providing confidential, trusted support to healthcare professionals (HCPs) facing disciplinary action, investigations, or workplace discrimination. We offer pastoral care, mental health referrals, and access to legal guidance for those navigating the distressing process of employer or regulator complaints. In the last year, we have supported almost 80 cases, but we need to do more.  This vital work is currently carried out largely on a voluntary basis, and we are seeking to expand our capacity so we can offer greater support to all healthcare workers who face discrimination, censorship, or repercussions for speaking out with compassion and integrity.

One healthcare worker faced repeated referrals to their regulator and even the police following complaints about social media posts in support of Palestine. These claims were dismissed, but the process took a heavy toll on their wellbeing. BIMA, alongside other organisations,  provided crucial legal and emotional support throughout.

Several medical students have reached out to us for help, from guidance on navigating fitness-to-practise proceedings to accessing urgent mental health support during times of grief and distress.

A consultant’s educational event was cancelled after concerns were raised about a planned talk from a speaker in Gaza. They turned to BIMA for both legal guidance and pastoral support.

Another healthcare worker raised concerns about discriminatory content in their workplace training. With BIMA’s advice, they were able to formally raise the issue,  resulting in the material being reviewed and removed.

We’ve also supported professionals who have faced Islamophobic abuse while receiving care themselves, helping them make formal complaints and seek justice.

These stories highlight a growing reality: many healthcare workers are being silenced for standing up for what’s right. The emotional and professional toll is immense, but with your help, we can ensure no one faces it alone.

By donating, you can help ensure that doctors, nurses, and allied healthcare professionals get the support they need. Your contribution will go towards expanding our support services, providing resources for mental health, legal consultations, and guiding healthcare workers through their most challenging times.

Your donation, no matter the size, will make a direct impact on healthcare professionals in need. Here’s how your contribution helps:

• £2 – Helps cover the cost of a phone call to provide urgent support to a healthcare worker facing a regulator or employer referral or needing pastoral care.
  
   
• £10 – Supports the provision of mental health resources and guides for healthcare professionals dealing with stress and burnout.
  
   
• £25 – Can fund staff offering guidance and advice to a healthcare worker in crisis.
  
   
• £50 – Helps fund a legal consultation, ensuring healthcare professionals have access to the advice they need to navigate complex challenges.
  
   
• Or donate what you can to help with more complex legal support.
  
   

Your support ensures that healthcare professionals are not silenced and have the resources they need to continue their vital work.