Nursing and midwifery to benefit from new code and funding - McGimpsey

Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey has endorsed the launch of the new code from the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

The Minister approved proposals put forward to establish significant improvements to the training and development of nurses and midwives in Northern Ireland.

The Minister said: “The key aim of this code is to provide nurses and midwives with principals broad enough to apply in every area of practice, whilst giving them clear guidance on key standards and ensuring clarity and simplicity of language.

“Whilst I firmly believe that all nurses and midwives are working to the best of their ability and in the best interests of patients and clients, it is reassuring to know that their practice is governed by standards for education, training and practice.

“This new code will strengthen the relationships between nurses, midwives and those in their care.

“In addition I am committing funding to secure the appointment of senior nurses and midwives who will support those who mentor students in training. Better governance of, and support for students during their training will improve quality of care.”

Speaking at the launch of the new code, Chief Nursing Officer, Martin Bradley welcomed this revised document: “It is vital that nurses and midwives understand their responsibilities towards patients and clients in their care. This new Code clarifies what is expected from them as a professional. For patients it sets out the standard of care they can expect to receive.”

Announcing the proposal to appoint a network of senior nurses with a responsibility to support learning and assessment in practice, the Chief Nursing Officer said: “This investment will provide an underpinning framework to sustain and assure the delivery of safe and effective care from a well trained and competent nursing and midwifery workforce.”

Notes to Editors:

1. For enquiries relating to the Northern Ireland Infrastructure to Support Learning and Assessment in Practice contact: Kathy Fodey, Nursing Officer, Education Regulation and Workforce, kathy.fodey@dhsspsni.gov.uk
2. Media enquiries to DHSSPS Press Office on 02890 520505, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.