Every midwife and MSW knows better than to utter the ‘Q’ word. Reflecting on his first 100 days as the RCM’s Public Affairs Adviser, Mike Indian has learned that quiet is a rare commodity in the world of midwifery and maternity.
Harold Wilson famously said, “A week is a long time in politics.” Since joining the RCM in August, it feels like there hasn’t been a week when maternity services weren’t on the lips of ministers and politicians across the UK. The RCM has been at the heart of these conversations, building relationships so decision-makers better understand your work and the pressures you face. These connections help us respond to events—and, where possible, shape outcomes that benefit you.
Political party conferences are key opportunities to influence policy. Over the past few months, the RCM has attended almost all of them across the UK. And it’s far more than a quick coffee chat. At Labour’s Conference in Liverpool, RCM Chief Executive Gill Walton joined a high-profile panel discussion, speaking directly to stakeholders about the vital role of midwives in the health workforce.
In Westminster, multiple All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) bring MPs and peers together on key issues. The RCM supports the APPG for Maternity and works closely with its Chair, Michelle Welsh MP. During the recent Commons debate on Baby Loss Awareness Week—which Michelle helped secure—she urged the Health Secretary to involve the RCM more closely in discussions on maternity services. This is a clear example of how strong relationships deliver impact.
The Commons Health and Social Care Committee’s report on Black Maternal Health endorsed the RCM’s call for cultural competency training for midwives—a significant win. We now await the Government’s response and hope they act on this vital recommendation to tackle disparities.
Getting the RCM’s perspective into parliamentary debates means ministers must answer questions on issues that matter to you. Workforce concerns—having the right staff in the right place at the right time—are raised with us constantly. After meeting Maya Ellis MP, she called for a debate on maternity workforce in the Commons. We’ll keep you updated if that goes ahead.
With the Chancellor’s second Budget Statement due soon, the RCM has successfully lobbied MPs to press Rachel Reeves to include maintenance loan forgiveness for student midwives—a key ask for supporting future professionals.
Overarching all this are investigations into maternity and neonatal services, most notably the Rapid Review chaired by Baroness Amos. Progress has been slower than we’d like, and we continue to press for clarity on outcomes. Another report gathering dust is not acceptable.
Our political influencing focuses on building understanding of the vital role midwives play. Many MPs are supportive, and the overwhelming sense I’ve had is one of deep appreciation for your work. That sentiment must be reflected in public debate on maternity services.
This week has shown what progress looks like. On Monday, I joined RCM Chief Membership Officer Robbie Turner and Employment Relations Director Emma Jenkinson at 10 Downing Street to put members’ views directly to a senior adviser to the Prime Minister. On Tuesday, Chief Policy Officer Hannah Leonard met Layla Moran MP, Chair of the Health and Social Care Select Committee, to discuss maternity services. Layla, a new mother herself, was effusive about the quality of care she and her birthing partner received—exactly the kind of testimony we want to amplify.
There’s much to do before Christmas. Conversations with the Maternity Investigation team offer an opportunity for the RCM to help shape outcomes and deliver the ultimate prize: protecting and enhancing the vital relationship you have with women and families in your care.
Watch this space.
