Introduction to Anti-Racism: Understanding Racism and Its Impact on Social and Patient Care

A practical introduction to anti-racism, unconscious bias, cultural competence, microaggressions, intersectionality and inclusive practice in social and patient care.

Introduction to Anti-Racism: Understanding Racism and Its Impact on Social and Patient Care Training Course

Introduction to Anti-Racism: Understanding Racism and Its Impact on Social and Patient Care

This Introduction to Anti‑Racism Training Course supports delegates in understanding racism, its impact on social and patient care, and the practical steps needed to create inclusive, equitable environments. The course explores unconscious bias, cultural competence, microaggressions, intersectionality and the role of allies in challenging racism. Delegates gain confidence in recognising discriminatory behaviours, addressing inequalities and developing meaningful action plans for change.

Racism continues to affect experiences, outcomes and access within both social care and patient care settings. This course provides a clear, accessible introduction to anti‑racism, helping delegates understand how racism operates at individual, organisational and systemic levels.

Through reflective discussion, practical examples and sector‑specific insights, participants explore how unconscious bias, cultural misunderstanding and microaggressions can impact the care provided to ethnically diverse individuals. The training encourages delegates to examine their own assumptions, build cultural competence and develop confidence in challenging discriminatory behaviour.

The session is suitable for all staff working in health, social care or community‑based roles, and is tailored to reflect your organisation’s needs.

Reflective Practice

Anti‑racism work begins with honest reflection. Delegates are encouraged to explore their own experiences, assumptions and blind spots, recognising how personal beliefs and cultural conditioning can influence interactions with colleagues, patients and service users. This reflective space helps participants identify areas for growth, understand the impact of privilege and develop a deeper awareness of how everyday behaviours can either reinforce or challenge inequality. The aim is not to assign blame, but to build confidence, empathy and accountability — essential foundations for meaningful anti‑racist practice.

Real‑World Scenarios

These scenarios help delegates explore how racism, bias and cultural misunderstanding can appear in everyday social and patient care settings.

Scenario 1: Cultural Misunderstanding

A patient’s cultural or religious needs are overlooked during assessment, leading to discomfort and reduced trust in the service.

  • Where cultural competence breaks down
  • How staff can adapt communication and practice
Scenario 2: Microaggression in Care

A colleague or patient experiences a subtle microaggression, dismissed as “harmless” or “just a joke”, causing emotional harm.

  • Understanding the impact of microaggressions
  • Safe and effective ways to intervene
Scenario 3: Intersectional Disadvantage

A service user faces compounded discrimination due to race, disability and gender identity, affecting the quality of care they receive.

  • Recognising intersectional barriers
  • Strategies to reduce harm and improve outcomes

Course Modules

These modules outline the key learning areas covered throughout the Introduction to Anti‑Racism Training Course.

Anti‑Racism Foundations

Understanding racism, its history and its impact on social and patient care.

Unconscious Bias

Recognising bias and understanding how it shapes decisions and care outcomes.

Cultural Competence

Developing cultural understanding and sensitivity to provide equitable care.

Microaggressions

Identifying and addressing subtle discriminatory behaviours in care settings.

Intersectionality

Understanding how race intersects with gender, disability, sexuality and other identities.

Challenging Racism

Building confidence to challenge racism and advocate for inclusive practice.

Inclusive Policies

Reviewing and improving organisational policies to embed anti‑racist practice.

Building Allies

Supporting and amplifying ethnically diverse colleagues and patients.

Self‑Reflection

Reflecting on personal biases, privilege and areas for growth.

Action Planning

Developing practical steps to address racial inequalities in care settings.

Proposed Outcomes

  • Deeper understanding of racism and its impact on care.
  • Confidence to challenge racism and discriminatory behaviour.
  • Ability to recognise and address unconscious bias.
  • Improved cultural competence and communication.
  • Actionable plans to support organisational change.

Course Structure and Cost

All our courses are tailored to ensure the training reflects your organisation’s goals and priorities.

Delivery Options

The course can be delivered face to face or online, via Zoom or Teams.

Delegate Numbers
  • Online sessions: maximum of 15 delegates
  • Face-to-face sessions: recommended maximum of 20 delegates

Course Fees

  • £595 for a half-day session
  • £895 for a full-day session
  • Two half-day sessions delivered on the same day are charged at the full-day rate

Please note: the half-day rate is not always available for face-to-face sessions.

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