A new review by the government's independent adviser on antisemitism, Lord Mann, recommends that NHS staff be barred from wearing political badges on their uniforms, such as pro-Palestinian symbols, to help tackle antisemitism.
The report, which examines antisemitism and other forms of racism within the NHS, found that some Jewish patients and staff have felt the need to hide their religious identity. Other recommendations include stronger accountability for NHS managers, improved recording of racist incidents, and allowing patients to record their ethnicity as Jewish.
Lord Mann told the BBC: "The NHS should not be a place where you bring in your views. And the stronger the views, the bigger the problem." He added that an "I support Palestine" or "I support Israel" badge is problematic for some people and should not be worn.
A Jewish A&E doctor in England said she felt uncomfortable seeing colleagues wearing pro-Palestinian badges. "The public should have trust in healthcare professionals and if you express political opinions, it can undermine that trust," she said.
The recommendation on political badges is expected to be adopted by NHS England, subject to consultation. It is also understood that Lord Mann will recommend that staff should not wear uniform at certain protests.
Health Secretary James Murray said the government would accept the recommendations in full. "I know that Jewish people – and everyone experiencing discrimination – need action not words. Together with NHS England, we will waste no time in setting these recommendations in motion," he said.
A spokesperson for the Jewish Medical Association supported the ban on political symbols, saying it should not be discriminatory. However, two doctors and a nurse have launched legal action against Barts Health NHS Trust, arguing that its dress code unlawfully discriminates against their pro-Palestinian beliefs.
Lord Mann's report was commissioned after the fatal attack at Heaton Park Synagogue in Manchester in October 2025. It found evidence of "routine ostracism" of Jewish staff, causing some to leave the NHS, and concerns that Jewish patients are avoiding care due to fear of antisemitism.