Total Law
0204 502 8582 (local rate)

Mon - Sun, 8.30 am - 6pm

Menu

BAME NHS Staff Killed by COVID-19

The tragic deaths of key workers such as healthcare staff – many of whom are BAME and/or originate from overseas – due to coronavirus is horrifying the nation.

    Request a call back from our immigration experts

    An Overview

    NHS staff and care workers are particularly at high risk due to their exposure to the deadly COVID-19 virus on a regular basis.

    Amged El-Hawrani, 55, was the first confirmed NHS consultant to pass away after being diagnosed with COVID-19. El-Hawrani was an ear, nose and throat specialist at Queen’s Hospital Burton in Staffordshire.

    Amal El-Hawrani, his sibling, commented that the sense of community service is a key motivation for BAME individuals to choose medicine as a career path.

    El-Hawrani said: “It’s important that people recognise the influence of immigrants, not just in the NHS.”

    “Chowdhury had raised concerns about the lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for himself and his NHS colleagues just five days before he was admitted to hospital”

    He also spoke of his brother’s wishes to become an orthopaedic surgeon, yet this dream wasn’t a realistic avenue due to ‘racial prejudice.’ He hopes that the pandemic will cause a nationwide reflection on how immigrants contribute to the wellbeing of the UK as well as consideration to which jobs are more important as opposed to the ones society tends to favour.

    Immigrant Doctor's Sacrifice Sparks PPE Action in UK Healthcare

    The death of consultant urologist Abdul Mabud Chowdhury, a member of staff at Homerton hospital in Hackney, mirrors Amged El-Harwani’s experience.

    Chowdhury’s 18-year-old son, Intisar Chowdhury, said his Father came from “very humble beginnings” in Bangladesh before he became dedicated to saving lives in Britain.

    “He never took time off, he dedicated his entire life to helping others, making a difference and saving lives”, his son said.

    Mr. Chowdhury and his wife also experienced racism when arriving in the UK, “like every single immigrant”, his son commented.

    Chowdhury had raised concerns about the lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) for himself and his NHS colleagues just five days before he was admitted to hospital. He called for “appropriate PPE and remedies” to “protect ourselves and our families.”

    Chowdhury’s son believes it was his father’s words, and his death, that drove forward the government’s efforts in getting PPE delivered. Matt Hancock, Health Secretary, recently labelled the government’s actions as a ‘Herculean’ effort and admits the task ahead – to ensure the equipment is provided quickly and to all members of staff who need it – is ‘huge’.

    BAME COVID-19 Impact: Inquiry Launched for Equality

    “BAME people account for 14% of the British population yet make up 35% of COVID-19 hospital patients in intensive care”

    The has been a launch of an inquiry into the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on BAME communities. BAME people account for 14% of the British population yet make up 35% of COVID-19 hospital patients in intensive care.

    Both El-Hawrani and Chowdhury support the inquiry, with Intisar Chowdhury stating “I don’t know how I am going to process that” if a link between ethnic background and intensive care admission is proven.

    El-Hawrani said: “In war, you have people who are cannon fodder. There’s definitely an element of that here – BAME doctors don’t always get the prestigious cushy roles.”

    The reality is harrowing for all those experiencing the frontline and losing loved ones due to lack of PPE and government efficiency. BAME healthcare workers cannot be ‘cannon fodder’ in this crisis.

    You may be interested in reading about.

    We offer immigration advice sessions as face to face appointments at all of our UK offices, or via the phone. Contact Us

      Fill out the form

      Advice Package icon

      Advice Package

      Comprehensive immigration advice tailored to your circumstances and goals.

      Application Package icon

      Application Package

      Designed to make your visa application as smooth and stress-free as possible.

      Appeal Package icon

      Appeal Package

      Ensure you have the greatest chance of a successful appeal. We will represent you in any case.

      Fast Track Package icon

      Fast Track Package

      Premium application service that ensures your visa application is submitted to meet your deadline.

      Advice Package image

      The Advice Package

      During this untimed Advice Session with our professional immigration lawyers in London, you will receive our comprehensive advice, completely tailored to your needs and your situation.

        Fill out the form

        Request the Advice Package
        Application Package image

        The Application Package

        With our Application Package, your dedicated immigration lawyer will advise you on your application process and eligibility. Your caseworker will then complete and submit your forms to the Home Office on your behalf.

          Fill out the form

          Request the Application Package
          Appeal Package image

          The Appeal Package

          By choosing our Appeal Package, you can rely on our lawyers’ legal knowledge and experience to ensure you have the highest chance of a successful appeal. We will also fully represent you in any hearings/tribunals.

            Fill out the form

            Request the Appeal Package
            Fast Track Package image

            The Fast Track Package

            Our Fast-Track Application Package is a premium service for those who need to submit their application in time with their deadlines. Your case will become a top priority for our lawyers and you will benefit from our highest-quality services.

              Fill out the form

              Request the Fast Track Package