The Understanding the Career Trajectory of 
Black Women in the UK Healthcare Sector from an Intersectional Lens

Author: Odinakah Keazor

Affiliation: Cambridge Centre of International Research

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Abstract:​​​​

 

This study presents how multiple social factors affect Black women's career advancement in the UK’s healthcare sector. The intersectionality framework is used in this study to indicate that the restraints Black women face pursuing career progression are not identical and are influenced by various societal and structural factors. Ultimately, this study advocates for inclusive practices within the workplace. This study reviewed literature that highlighted how Black women’s early socialisation into caregiving roles, systemic and cultural barriers, in conjunction with intersectionality, shape why they are underrepresented in senior management healthcare positions in the UK. It explored the glass ceiling and the subsequent overrepresentation of white male employees in leadership roles, and the exclusion of Black women from the glass escalator effect, demanding deeper analysis for equity. This study adopted interpretivism to explore participants’ healthcare experiences, using focus group interviews. The focus groups were held with 20 Black women in various healthcare occupations, facilitating an understanding of their shared and individual experiences with microaggressions, workplace harassment and limited upward mobility. The findings chapter determined that the intersection of gender, race, class and education profoundly shapes Black women’s careers in UK healthcare. Participants highlighted that their race presented them with unconscious bias, underrepresentation, and racism in their workplaces. In addition, they faced gender disparities, unequal pay and limited mentorship as a result of social class. Recommending tailored mentorship, detailed DEI reporting, and equitable practices and contributing a deeper understanding of intersectionality and systemic barriers in career trajectory for Black women

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Keywords: Intersectionality, Black women, Healthcare sector, Career advancement, Glass Ceiling, Glass Escalator​

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ISSN 3069-8200