A midwife who lives with a neurodivergence disability successfully secured workplace adjustments and a renewed confidence in her role with support from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM).
The RCM member in the North of England said she was feeling increasingly unable to practice safely and was finding it difficult to communicate with her managers about the support she required following a period of absence from work.
After reaching out to the RCM, she was accompanied to a return-to-work meeting by a local RCM rep, who advocated for her needs to be met. During the meeting, the Trust acknowledged delays and poor communication and agreed to several important actions to help the member feel supported in her role.
These actions included the introduction of a disability passport to support ongoing conversations around reasonable adjustments, a phased return to work, and a discussion about how changes to benefit the whole team.
In a follow-up meeting, the member was involved in reviewing a new job description to reflect her current responsibilities. There were also discussions around flexible working and a non-clinical day to support her neurodivergence.
Lynne Galvin, RCM Regional Head North of England, said:
“This is a great example of how effective advocacy can lead to better outcomes, not just for the individual but for the whole team. We’re pleased this member now has the support she needs to thrive. She has a clear plan in place and feels far more supported in her role.”
Reflecting on the outcome, the member said:
“I couldn’t have done it without the RCM’s representation. When it all gets you down, remember what a difference the RCM makes every day.”
It was also agreed for plans to be put in place to ensure all staff had appraisals and that escalation routes were clear.
Following the meeting, the member’s manager invited the whole team to book appraisal meetings and secured interim funding for an additional Band 6 midwife to support the team for six months.
What advice does Lynne have for other midwives and MSWs who feel they need reasonable adjustments in their workplace?
“It’s important that you don’t struggle in silence. Everyone has a right to work in an environment where their needs are understood and met, whether this is returning from sickness absence or managing a disability or a long-term health condition. Workplace adjustments can make a huge difference to your working lives, which can also have a positive effect on your personal life too. Speak to your manager early and explain the difficult you’re facing. Contact your local RCM rep or RCM Regional Officer for support and advocacy too – our reps are able to attend any formal meetings or return-to-work discussions you may have.”
More information on how the RCM can support you with in your workplace is available here.
