UK: joint statement on nursing associates in maternity settings
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM), NHS England, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) have issued a joint position statement expressing concerns about the deployment of nursing associates in maternity settings, emphasizing that such practices may compromise safety and quality of care. The statement notes that nursing associates, while trained professionals, do not possess the specialized skills and knowledge required for midwifery practice. The RCM emphasizes that introducing nurses into maternity settings could lead to fragmented care and reduced continuity for patients. They advocate for maternity services to be staffed by appropriately trained midwives to ensure safe and effective care for women and their families.