NMC responds to Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry findings

The shocking episode at Muckamore Abbey was one of the largest cases of systemic abuse and neglect in the history of the NHS, involving people with learning disabilities and mental health conditions – some of the most vulnerable in society – who should have been able to rely on safe, compassionate and respectful care.

As the regulator of nursing and midwifery professionals in Northern Ireland, the NMC has a clear responsibility to uphold standards and take appropriate action when concerns are raised that a professional’s fitness to practise has been impaired.

The NMC currently holds 54 open cases relating to Muckamore Abbey. Of these, four are at Screening, the initial assessment stage of the process. A further 50 are currently undergoing full investigations. From these, 25 registrants are subject to Interim Suspension Orders, meaning that they cannot practise while the NMC investigates. A further 15 are subject to Interim Conditions of Practice Orders to restrict their practice while the regulator investigates.

The NMC recognises that its fitness to practise proceedings can be stressful for all parties involved, and is committed to resolving all cases as soon as practicable, in cooperation with other investigating bodies.

Outside of the inquiry, the NMC has been working with partners in Northern Ireland to strengthen how regulation, safeguarding and criminal processes work together in complex cases.

Since the period investigated by the inquiry, the regulator has strengthened the way it assesses risk, works with partners, and supports more accessible and trauma informed engagement with families.

Paul Rees MBE, Chief Executive and Registrar, said:

“The shocking abuse at Muckamore Abbey should never have happened, and it’s right that these failures have been fully brought into the open.

“The inquiry has shed light on how serious abuse was able to occur over a long period, and how different parts of the health, safeguarding and justice systems responded.

“Its findings are deeply upsetting – we must all recognise the profound and lasting impact this abuse has had on people’s lives. There must now be lasting and meaningful change, and we’ll play our part in a coordinated, whole system response to help ensure such widespread abuse is never repeated.

“The NMC will now carefully consider the inquiry’s findings in full. It is committed to learning from recommendations relevant to its regulatory work, and will be transparent about the actions it takes forward.”

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