Identity and experiences of minority ethnic dementia care workers during COVID-19

Key messages 

• participants described experiences of racism and discrimination in the workplace 

• care workers reported feelings of injustice and being undervalued 

• strong senses of personal and collective responsibility shaped care delivery during the pandemic 

• workplace support structures influenced how workers coped with pressures 

• identity intersected with pandemic conditions to shape everyday working experiences. 

Policy implications 

• employers need to address racism and discrimination within dementia care settings 

• culturally responsive support structures are needed for minority ethnic staff 

• recognition and valuing of care work are central to workforce wellbeing 

• inclusive leadership and clear reporting mechanisms may improve staff experiences. 

Gaps 

• online recruitment may have excluded workers with limited access to technology 

• participants had limited exposure to COVID-related deaths, affecting transferability 

• findings are based on self-selected qualitative accounts 

• future research should include randomly selected samples. 

Commentary 

This study highlights how identity influenced the working lives of minority ethnic dementia care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants’ accounts show how experiences of racism and exclusion sat alongside strong professional commitment and a sense of responsibility to those they supported. 

The findings underline the emotional labour involved in dementia care, particularly under crisis conditions. Where workplace support was limited or inconsistent, feelings of being undervalued were intensified, shaping how workers understood their role and status within care settings. 

From a care equity perspective, the study exposes how structural inequities within the workforce affect both staff wellbeing and the delivery of care. Minority ethnic workers faced additional burdens linked to discrimination and lack of recognition, reflecting wider inequities in the social care sector. These conditions risk reinforcing disparities in retention, progression and workforce stability. 

Overall, the paper demonstrates that equitable dementia care depends on equitable treatment of the workforce. Addressing racism, strengthening support structures and recognising the contributions of minority ethnic care workers are essential steps toward a fairer and more resilient care system.