Response to Anti-Immigrant and Anti-Refugee Protests Sept 2025

“These marches were instigated by people who are against immigrants and refugees in this country. We at the Foundation are appalled and saddened to witness such views and acts, against some of the most vulnerable people in our society. We stand firmly against racism, in all its forms.

Irresponsible political and business leaders, extremists, racist organisations and influential individuals are using these protests and social media to exploit public concerns and grievances. Grievances about cost of living, housing, and public services have real causes, which we seek to address. Blaming the issues on the some of the most vulnerable people in society is wrong. And it will not solve the problems.

These public figures are deploying their platforms and voices to foster hate and division in our society. Their words and actions serve to divide and NOT unite us. But they do not speak for everyone.

We remain hugely proud of our work at the Foundation in Lambeth and Southwark to build a healthier society for all, in one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the UK – London. Collaborating with our partners in the community, black-led organisations and businesses and supporting the diverse and dedicated 26,000 staff at the NHS Trust, patients and their families is core to how we work.

We know that ill health disproportionately affects people from disadvantaged communities and particularly Black and Asian people, and those on low incomes. This includes asylum seekers. From Black maternal health to Air pollution and Diabetes, we hear the devastating effects poor health has on individual lives, families and communities.

Inclusion is one of our organisation’s core values and central to all of the work we do. We are working hard to make the Foundation an inclusive, safe and healthy working environment for all.

Our work with our partners to tackle health inequalities and racial injustice, to improve the health of those most affected in society will not stop. It will continue. Our commitment to our mission is unwavering, and our work more urgent than ever.”

Laurie Lee, Chief Executive Officer, Guy’s & St. Thomas’ Foundation