The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has demanded an urgent meeting with Health Secretary Wes Streeting, warning of a deepening crisis in maternity services across the UK. With severe staffing shortages and rising pressures, the RCM highlights the growing risks to both mothers and newborns.
Staffing Shortages Reach Critical Levels
The RCM has raised alarms over the unsustainable workload faced by midwives, with many units operating well below safe staffing levels. The college reports that burnout and attrition rates are soaring, leaving remaining staff stretched to their limits.
Call for Government Action
In a letter to the Health Secretary, the RCM outlined key priorities for the new government, including:
- Immediate investment in midwife recruitment and retention
- Expansion of training places to address long-term shortages
- Better support for existing staff through improved working conditions
The college warns that without swift intervention, the quality of care for pregnant women and new mothers will continue to deteriorate.
Impact on Patient Care
Recent reports have shown increasing numbers of maternity units being forced to close temporarily due to staffing issues, with some mothers being turned away from their local hospitals. The RCM emphasizes that this situation cannot continue without serious consequences for maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
The Health Secretary's office has acknowledged receipt of the letter but has not yet confirmed when the requested meeting will take place.
