Recent NMC Case Involving Independent Midwife

Independent Midwives UK (IM UK) cannot comment on specific cases but wish to make it clear that independent midwives are fully qualified and registered professionals who are required to undertake regular ongoing training and updating of skills by their regulatory body, the NMC. The regular updates ensure that midwives are able to deal with birth emergencies such as shoulder dystocia which can occur in any birth setting. The training involves learning the series of manoeuvres and actions necessary to try and ensure the baby is delivered as quickly as possible to prevent brain damage or death. 

There is no professional indemnity insurance (PII) currently available to independent midwives in the UK. Because of our small numbers it is not commercially viable for insurance companies to offer it. Independent Midwives are required by their regulator, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, to inform all clients that they do not have PII and the implications of this before booking. IM UK has been working closely with the Department of Health for a number of years now to find a solution to this problem and would welcome the option of having PII available to them.