NMC responds to Health and Social Care Committee’s report into Black maternal health

Commenting on the report, Tracey MacCormack, Assistant Director for Midwifery at the NMC, said:

“Every woman, baby and family has the right to expect safe and effective maternity care. Yet, as the Health and Social Care Committee’s findings lay bare, this is often not the reality for Black women. The Committee’s conclusion that racism is one of the core drivers of poor maternal outcomes is completely unacceptable and highlights the urgent need for system-wide action.

“At the NMC, we stand four square against racism. Our Code and standards are clear that nursing and midwifery professionals must treat people with respect, compassion and without discrimination. As part of our new equality, diversity and inclusion targets, we have committed to updating our Code to more strongly address discrimination in different forms.

“Separately, we’ll be carrying out a snapshot review of midwifery curricula against our standards. This work will help us understand any gaps in education and practice that need to be addressed to ensure people receive safe, culturally competent care.

“Together, with our partners in health and care, we’re determined to play our part to tackle the scourge of health inequalities.”

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