On Maternity Support Workers Day, the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Cymru is celebrating a long-awaited deal which will bring pay rises for maternity support workers (MSWs) in Wales.
Following negotiations through the Welsh Partnership Forum, MSWs and other health care support workers in Wales will now be re-banded from Agenda for Change Band 2 to Band 3 where their duties match Band 3 responsibilities. This re-banding recognises that many MSWs already carry out complex clinical work and provide essential maternity care.
The agreement also ensures backdated pay and recognition payments, acknowledging MSWs who have been operating at the higher level for some time.
Julie Richards, Director of RCM Cymru, said: “MSWs in Wales do vital, skilled work in our maternity services and for too long, their pay hasn’t reflected that. Today, on MSW Day of all days, we are proud that their contribution is being formally recognised. The whole process is about fairness and respect – and making sure that if you’re doing more you’re getting recognised for it, both in your job title and your bank account.”
The RCM has consistently raised concerns about MSWs carrying out Band 3 clinical duties while remaining on Band 2 pay. In a blog earlier this year, the College outlined the scale of this issue and the need for a transparent, fair system that properly reflects the work MSWs do every day.
Under the new framework, which the Welsh Government has committed to funding to support the implementation across NHS Wales, all eligible Band 2 MSWs will be assessed and re-banded to Band 3 where duties align with the national profile. Backdated pay and recognition payments will be provided to staff who have been performing Band 3 duties prior to re-banding.
The new process begins in January 2026, when job evaluations will start, with a target to complete re-banding, including back pay, by July 2026.
Julie added: “As assessments begin early next year, RCM Cymru will continue to support members through every step of the process. If you’re unsure about your duties, your job description, or the re-banding process, we’re here to help.”
On MSW Day, the RCM acknowledges the dedication, compassion and professionalism of MSWs across the UK, with a focus on supporting all our MSW members.
