RCM statement on Chancellor’s commitment to recruit 2,000 more midwives

on 17 November 2022 RCM Maternity Services MSWs - Maternity Support Workers Midwifery Midwives Staffing Levels Government RCM Member Pay NHS Pay Review Body Pay and Agenda For Change NHS England NHS Staff Safety

Following today’s Autumn Statement, the Royal College of Midwives has given a cautious welcome to the commitment by the Government to recruit 2,000 more midwives in England.

Dr Suzanne Tyler, Executive Director Trade Union at the RCM, said:

“The RCM has been telling anyone who will listen – including Jeremy Hunt in his previous roles as Health Secretary and Chair of the Commons Health & Social Care Committee – that we have a chronic and crippling workforce shortage in maternity care. While we are delighted that our persistence has paid off and our influence has resulted in this commitment to recruit 2,000 more midwives, as always the devil will be in the detail. How will the Government meet this commitment, and what is the timescale?

“What was also missing from today’s statement was any movement on NHS pay, which plays such a fundamental role in attracting and retaining staff. There is an ongoing risk that, if the Government drags its feet, we will lose even more of our existing workforce, deepening the staffing crisis yet further. We need a clear plan, we need a decent pay deal, and we need both of them now.”

ENDS

To contact the RCM Media Office call 020 7312 3456, or email [email protected].

The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team.  We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance, and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences, and online resources. For more information visit the RCM | A professional organisation and trade union dedicated to serving the whole midwifery team.