East and South East Asian Heritage Month returns this September

Health and social care organisations across the UK are being encouraged to recognise East and South East Asian Heritage Month this September, celebrating the cultures, histories and contributions of East and South East Asian communities.

Taking place throughout September, the annual awareness month provides an opportunity to celebrate, acknowledge and learn more about the many ways East and South East Asian communities have helped shape modern Britain.

The month also provides an important opportunity for the health and care sector to recognise the contribution of East and South East Asian professionals working across the NHS, social care, community services and the wider healthcare workforce.

From doctors, nurses and pharmacists to care workers, researchers, allied health professionals and support teams, people from East and South East Asian backgrounds form an important part of the workforce delivering services to communities across the country.

For employers, the month can also provide a platform for conversations around inclusion, representation and cultural understanding in the workplace, while giving colleagues an opportunity to share their heritage and experiences.

Organisations can mark the month through staff events, educational sessions, cultural celebrations and by highlighting the stories and achievements of East and South East Asian colleagues.

Within patient and social care services, greater cultural awareness can also support more personalised care. Understanding different languages, traditions, family structures and attitudes towards health can help professionals build trust and ensure the people they support feel heard and respected.

East and South East Asian Heritage Month runs throughout September 2026, offering the health and care sector an opportunity not only to celebrate the contribution of its East and South East Asian workforce, but to continue building workplaces and services in which people from every background feel represented and valued.

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