We strongly condemn any form of racism and discrimination and are appalled by the acts of violence witnessed across the country.

Any violence, aggression or racial abuse will not be tolerated in general practice at any time and practices will be supported to take the actions they feel most appropriate to keep their patients and staff safe, including closing their surgery if that is deemed to be the most appropriate course of action.

If a practice becomes aware of a threat, the police should be notified by calling 101 and business continuity plans implemented to protect staff and patients.

We have agreed this guidance to help if you decide you need to close your doors to your patients.

We ask GPs and their team members to remain vigilant, particularly when traveling to and from work. Where possible, avoid known areas of unrest and report any incidents of abuse or violence to the police immediately. 

Kent Police has a dedicated website where you can report these – this is being regularly monitored.

Sukh Singh
Director of Primary and Community (Out of Hospital) Care
NHS Kent and Medway

Dr Gaurav Gupta
Chairman
Kent LMC