As reported by the National Health Executive, a study commissioned by the NHS Race and Health Observatory warns that many people from racialised communities face significantly higher levels of trauma, while the public services meant to provide support can sometimes compound those experiences instead of easing them
Produced by Centre for Mental Health together with Coffee Afrik CIC, the report examines the relationship between racism, trauma and access to mental health care. It concludes that racism can both trigger psychological harm and create barriers that prevent individuals from receiving timely or appropriate support.
Researchers found that contact with major public systems — including healthcare, policing, housing and social care — can intensify existing trauma. Many participants described clinical environments where they felt dismissed, judged or unsafe. Others reported discriminatory treatment or structural hurdles that made it harder to access help, while some said their experiences were made worse by services that failed to recognise the role racism plays in mental health.
The report highlights several overlapping forms of trauma affecting racialised communities, including:
• Historical trauma linked to racism, slavery, colonialism and segregation
• Major national events such as the Windrush scandal, which caused lasting psychological and financial harm
• Continued discrimination and exclusion connected to hostile environment policies
• Persistent racial injustice in contemporary society
Taken together, the report says these experiences can shape many aspects of life, influencing wellbeing, identity, confidence, education and broader opportunities.
It also notes signs that overt racism is becoming more visible in public discourse, with divisive messaging from figures in positions of power contributing to its wider normalisation.
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