The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has welcomed a new direction from Cavell, the charity supporting midwives and nurses, which will see a greater focus on helping people before financial, emotional and wellbeing challenges reach crisis point.
Cavell today unveiled plans to expand its support services over the next three years, with new initiatives aimed at building confidence, resilience and wellbeing among midwives and nurses across the UK.
While Cavell will continue to provide vital support to those facing financial hardship or emotional difficulties, it will increasingly focus on early intervention, helping professionals access support sooner and preventing problems from escalating.
For RCM members, that could mean access to enhanced wellbeing support, financial coaching and practical guidance designed to help them navigate challenges before they become overwhelming.
The changes come at a time when many midwives and maternity support workers are facing intense pressures both at work and at home. Demand for support from organisations such as Cavell has risen in recent years, reflecting the ongoing challenges affecting the nursing and midwifery workforce.
Gill Walton, RCM Chief Executive, said: “Midwives and maternity support workers are working under enormous pressure and we know that many are facing challenges that extend beyond the workplace. That’s why support from organisations like Cavell is so important.
“We welcome Cavell’s decision to place greater emphasis on early intervention and prevention, as too often people seek help only when they reach crisis point and are at rock bottom. Expanding support that helps people manage financial worries, protect their wellbeing and build resilience earlier can make a real difference.
“The RCM has a longstanding relationship with Cavell and we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact its support can have on our members. We look forward to continuing to work together to ensure midwives and maternity support workers can access the help they need, when they need it.”
Alongside expanding support services, Cavell will also continue its work recognising the contribution of nurses and midwives through initiatives such as the Cavell Star Awards and will use insights from those accessing its services to help influence national conversations about workforce wellbeing.
The charity’s ambition is to support more than 10,000 nursing and midwifery professionals each year by 2029.
RCM members can find out more about the support available through the Cavell website.