In this article, we take a look at the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), its origins, and its pivotal role in shaping the nursing and midwifery professions.
An overview of the NMC
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) holds a critical position in overseeing the nursing and midwifery professions in the United Kingdom. As the governing body, the NMC is responsible for setting benchmarks for education, training, and practice, thereby ensuring the safety and health of patients and the public as a whole.
Regulating nursing and midwifery is essential for upholding high standards of care and professionalism. This regulation ensures that nurses and midwives are skilled, qualified, and fit to practice, which in turn enhances the quality of healthcare services rendered to individuals and communities.
The NMC operates across the four nations of the UK—England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. While the NMC establishes the standards and regulations applicable to all nurses and midwives, there are subtle differences in the application and oversight of these standards within each country.
The history of the Nursing and Midwifery Council
The Nursing and Midwifery Council has a rich history that mirrors the growth and development of nursing and midwifery regulation in the United Kingdom. Since its inception, the NMC has played a key role in ensuring the highest standards of care and professionalism in these vital healthcare professions.
The NMC came into existence in 2002, following the merger of the United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (UKCC) and the Nursing and Midwifery Council for England and Wales (NMC). This union marked a significant milestone in the regulation of nursing and midwifery, combining the expertise and resources of two separate bodies.
The history of the Nursing and Midwifery Council is a testament to the continuous evolution and development of nursing and midwifery regulation in the UK. The Council’s journey, marked by key milestones and significant historical events, underlines its commitment to upholding the highest standards of care, professionalism, and patient safety.
Council structure and governance
The NMC is composed of twelve members, including nurses, midwives, and members of the public. The Council is tasked with setting the strategic direction and policies of the NMC, ensuring that it fulfils its statutory duties. The members of the Council are selected through a rigorous selection process, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the table.
The Council members have a range of responsibilities and functions. They oversee the regulation and registration of nurses and midwives, ensuring that they meet the required standards of education, training, and conduct. They also handle fitness to practice cases, investigating concerns and taking appropriate action when necessary. Additionally, the Council plays a role in developing and reviewing the NMC’s standards, guidance, and codes of conduct.
Effective governance is of utmost importance in nursing and midwifery regulation. It ensures that the NMC operates transparently, ethically, and in the best interests of the public. Good governance promotes accountability, integrity, and the delivery of high-quality care. By upholding professional standards and regulating the profession effectively, the NMC contributes to the overall safety and trustworthiness of nursing and midwifery practice.
The NMC Register
Maintained by the Nursing & Midwifery Council, the NMC register is a register of all individuals who can practice as a nurse or midwife in the UK, plus nursing associates in England. All professionals on the register are expected to act in line with the Code as set out by the NMC.
The Code outlines the professional standards that nurses, midwives, and nursing associates must uphold and is structured around four key themes:
- Prioritise people
- Practise effectively
- Preserve safety
- Promote professionalism and trust
To maintain NMC registration, nurses and midwives in the UK and nursing associates in England need to complete nurse revalidation every three years. Revalidation encourages practice reflection and ensures that people have confidence in the nurses and midwives that care for them.
Find out more about nurse revalidation and how our Clinical Governance team can support you.
