In a statement, which is backed by the BMA, the RCN, the SoR, along with Unison, Unite and the HCSA, demands an end to the ‘escalating use of hostile language' against people from overseas living in the UK.

The statement calls on politicians and the media to end the spread of misinformation, which is resulting in the ‘blatant scapegoating of migrant communities'.

It says: ‘Our health and social care sector is built on the hard work and rich diversity of its workforce. Many of our colleagues, especially those from international backgrounds or perceived as ethnically distinct from the majority population, are facing a sustained campaign of anti-migrant rhetoric.

‘This rhetoric also comes at a time when the rights of those who live and work in the UK to continue to make the UK their home are being openly questioned, including tens of thousands of people working within the health and social care sector. People are unsettled and frightened, with some directly experiencing hate and violence at work and within their communities.'

The statement adds: ‘In the face of this blatant scapegoating of migrant communities, we stand united in our commitment to uphold the values of dignity, respect and equality for all individuals.

‘As leading trade unions and professional associations within the UK, representing workers within the health and social care sector, we reject any form of discrimination and oppose all forms of racism and xenophobia.'