"Black Service, Not NHS Service": Health Leader Condemns Racial Inequality in Mother's Death

A leading figure in the UK's health sector has launched a scathing critique of racial disparities within the NHS, revealing his profound distress over the "undignified" death of his 92-year-old mother, who he believes received a "black service, not an NHS service."

Lord Victor Adebowale, chairman of the NHS Confederation, shared his deeply personal and emotional account at the NHS ConfedExpo conference in Manchester. His mother, Grace, a dedicated NHS nurse for 45 years, passed away in January from suspected lung cancer, which tragically was only detected posthumously.

Lord Adebowale's powerful testimony underscored what he described as systemic racial inequalities plaguing the healthcare system. "I just think there are too many situations where people that look like me and shades of me don't get the service," he stated, his voice resonating with emotion. He lamented, "It was not the dignified death that we would have wanted for her. It wasn't the death she deserved. So it makes me clear about the need to address the inequity. I think she got a black service, not an NHS service."

He further asserted the urgent need to confront these persistent disparities: "So I have to address the inequity that still exists within the NHS, in terms of the experiences that people who look like me continue to receive. It just hasn't got any better." His remarks highlight a deeply ingrained issue that, despite efforts, continues to impact the quality of care received by certain demographic groups.

In response to Lord Adebowale's comments, an NHS spokesperson reiterated the organization's commitment to equitable care: "Everyone – no matter their background – should receive the best NHS care possible. That’s why we are working across the NHS to ensure that happens – from improving access to cancer diagnosis and treatment, to expanding health checks for Black and Asian communities and increasing uptake of blood pressure and cholesterol medication in under-served groups." The spokesperson acknowledged the significant work still ahead, stating, "But we know there is much more to do, and tackling health inequalities will form an important part of the upcoming 10 Year Health Plan."

Lord Adebowale's heartfelt condemnation serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge to achieve true health equity within the NHS, ensuring that care is delivered equally to all, regardless of their background or where they live.