In the UK, individuals from ethnic minorities have experienced a disproportionate impact on their employment and work hours during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to research conducted by campaigner Hope Not Hate, which relied on three surveys and data from external sources like Public Health England (PHE), BAME individuals were significantly more likely (13%) to report a reduction in their work hours, as compared to a nationally representative sample (9%). They were also nearly twice as likely to report job losses (7% compared to the national average of 4% in May and 3% in June).
Furthermore, a higher percentage of BAME respondents had difficulties paying their rent (9% compared to the national average of 5%) and falling into debt (also 9% compared to 5%) in comparison to the UK average.
A diversity expert commenting on the report suggested that BAME individuals might continue to face a disproportionate impact from layoffs due to the influence of unconscious bias in decision-making.
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