Marie Curie responds to ONS report on BAME deaths from coronavirus

An analysis published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) today reveals that black, Asian & minority ethnic (BAME) people are significantly more likely to die with coronavirus than white people.

Bangladeshi and Pakistani, Indian, and mixed ethnicities have a significantly raised risk of death from the virus, while black people are more than four times more likely to die of the virus.

In response, Angharad Burden a Bereavement Services Coordinator at the end of life charity Marie Curie said:

“These figures are shocking. They show the devastating impact that coronavirus is having on people from BAME communities, with people of Bangladeshi and Pakistani origin nearly twice as likely to die, and black people up to four times as likely to die from coronavirus as white people. 

“While we support the inquiries needed to understand the causes of this disparity and how they can be addressed, they will take time. There is a need right now to support the loved ones of people who have died.

“Many families from BAME communities will be mourning the death of someone they love
from coronavirus and may be struggling to cope with grief at a time when the way we grieve has been disrupted by lockdown measures. The isolation that we are all now observing to protect the NHS and save lives will make grief harder for many, and likely to lead to complex grief. 

“Marie Curie’s information and support line is there for anyone who needs it. If you, or someone you know, is affected by a terminal illness and concerned about coronavirus, or if you’ve been bereaved and need support, our support line team is ready to help. Call 0800 090 2309.”