The findings from the independent review of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)’s culture are extremely unacceptable. They have revealed issues of racism, discrimination and bullying within the organisation, leading sometimes to patient safety concerns.
Some of the main findings in the report were:
- Lack of safeguarding for people involved in NMC processes. Tragically six people have died by suicide or suspected suicide while under, or having concluded, fitness to practise investigation.
- Negative internal culture has led to poor behaviours and concerning case outcomes in some areas.
- Multiple experiences of racism, discrimination and bullying within the organisation.
- Failure of senior leadership to rise to the challenges facing the NMC. Staff feeling uncomfortable or even unsafe to speak up.
Nurses and midwives will want to see immediate change and we stress that the recommendations in the review must be implemented in full, as soon as is possible.
It is also extremely important that all employees, indeed all nurses and midwives, can speak up without fear.
For any nurses or midwives who are experiencing distress because of these findings, please seek support. A few options are signposted below:
- If you are involved in NMC fitness to practise process, the Fitness to Practise Careline is available on 0800 587 7396 to provide support. The service is free, independent, confidential and non-judgemental.
- Nurse Lifeline offer a listening service for Nurses, Midwives, Nursing Associates, Health Care Assistants, students in these professions and family and friends of these groups.
