An investigation into why BAME groups are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 in the UK

In the light of recent events where race and ethnicity are at the forefront of everyone’s thoughts, I decided to undertake a voluntary investigation on the reasons behind why so many Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) groups have been so badly affected by COVID-19. I started it a couple of weeks ago when reports started emerging that BAME groups were being disproportionately affected by COVID-19 and I managed to finish it just as Public Health UK published their report.

I was looking forward to reading what our top government officials would determine, but I am a little disappointed. Whilst their report breaks down the data in a very analytical way, it falls short of coming to any real conclusions as to why this has occurred. This is where the two reports differ.

It is obvious from my investigation that there are clear differences between white ethnic groups and BAME groups. Being born BAME puts you at a socio-economic disadvantage compared to your White counterparts. Not only are you more likely to be poorer and have worse living conditions, but you will also suffer from underlying health conditions due to your environment. Then when you eventually get a job, your chances of reaching the most senior positions are lower. You will most likely fill junior positions, proving deadly if you work for the NHS.

We are facing institutional racism which is reflected in disparities such as income, housing, employment and also covert racism. They tolerate us, like you would tolerate pain or a foul smell. Deep down we are not equal and the COVID epidemic has highlighted the inequality. Interestingly, tolerance is a fundamental British value, so I suppose BAME groups should be grateful that we are tolerated.

Below you can read my full investigation. Please let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

https://1drv.ms/b/s!AmFbYLj-1IhegwVMk2GDKpk259HO?e=OmlopT