Expected behaviours
We want everyone who interacts with the NMC to be treated with respect. We understand that people may contact us when they are worried, frustrated or dealing with difficult circumstances, and we will always aim to listen and respond fairly. In return, we expect people to communicate with our colleagues and others involved in our work respectfully. This page explains the behaviours we expect, what we consider unacceptable or unreasonable, and how we may respond when these expectations are not met.
Our statement on racist or discriminatory behaviour
Statement Published on 03 September 2026
The NMC will not tolerate racist, offensive or discriminatory behaviour towards our staff.
The NMC will not tolerate racist, offensive or discriminatory behaviour towards our staff. Neither will we condone the use of racist, offensive or discriminatory language directed towards professionals on our register or others involved in our fitness to practise processes.
We will always take action in respect of racist or discriminatory behaviour towards our staff or, where appropriate, nurses, midwives and nursing associates or members of the public who come into contact with our regulatory processes.
Our Fitness to Practise Process
Our first priority is to protect the public and address any risks to public safety, public confidence or professional standards. However, in respect of any fitness to practise matter we will always:
- Challenge the use of racist, offensive or discriminatory language towards our staff, nurses, midwives, nursing associates or members of the public
- Consider whether the use of racist, offensive or discriminatory language towards a nurse, midwife or nursing associate indicates that the referral or whistleblowing disclosure has a discriminatory motivation
- Consider whether to restrict contact to the NMC in line with our Respectful Behaviour Policy, and/or refer the matter to the police
Behaviour towards our staff
The NMC has a values and behaviours framework which sets out our clear expectations of how our staff should behave in line with our NMC Values of Integrity, Fairness, Respect, Equity and Effectiveness.
Equally, our staff have the right to work without fear of discrimination, abuse, or harassment.
Our Respectful Behaviour Policy and Process sets out what we consider to be unacceptable behaviour, including racist, offensive or discriminatory behaviour. Unacceptable behaviour includes, but may not be limited to:
- Racial Slurs: Using derogatory or abusive language, insults, or jokes relating to race, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or citizenship.
- Aggressive Conduct: Verbal or physical threats, intimidation, or hostility.
- Prejudiced Demands: Making unjustified complaints about or requesting to not have dealings with a member of staff based on their race or ethnic background.
Action we may take includes referring matters to the police and/or restricting contact with the NMC.
