Joined-up working
“As a profession, we’re entrenched in writing longhand notes – that’s why midwives love a free pen,” says Zoe Meneilly, deputy head of midwifery at the South Eastern Trust and chair of the expert working group for the Encompass digital platform. In November 2023, the South Eastern Trust was the first to go live with the […]
Come together
The right platform No longer does a community require close physical proximity. Digital networks allow colleagues to connect and share day-to-day support. For certain groups, such as those working in remote and rural settings, this is vital. During the COVID-19 lockdown particularly, student midwives unable to attend lectures or bond with their cohort relied on […]
“If you want change for the members you represent, you can’t stay on the sidelines”
An RCM member came to me because she had quite a bit of time off sick and she faced possibly losing her job and her livelihood. I said: “I really need you to be honest with me and tell me what’s going on, otherwise it makes it difficult for me to build a defence and […]
Failure of oversight means NMC is letting down midwifery educators and students and not fulfilling its duty to protect the public, says RCM
Following a Sunday Times investigation into midwifery education published today, the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has reiterated its calls to invest more in the education of the next generation of midwives and those working in the university sector. The RCM said the Sunday Times’ findings reflect long-standing issues it has raised repeatedly about inadequate […]
Perinatal mental health
Maternity professionals have an opportunity to identify women who are at risk of perinatal mental illness and to help them and their families get care. First steps The first step is to reduce the stigma associated with poor mental health. Midwives and maternity support workers should discuss mental health in all care appointments and treat […]
The RCM says no time to waste as Scottish Government launches national review into maternity services
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has said there is no time to waste, following the Scottish Government’s announcement of a new national review into maternity care. The RCM has previously expressed concern that reviews and investigations risk halting progress and improvement. The College said any such review must lead to urgent action as any […]
RCM members celebrate victory over pay in Northern Ireland
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has today thanked its midwife and maternity support worker members in Northern Ireland for all their efforts in securing victory in their fight for pay parity. The eleventh hour announcement from Health Minister Mike Nesbitt today means that those HSC staff will receive the promised pay rise, fully backdated […]
A week Is a long time in politics – and in maternity care
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 […]