Positive step says RCM in Wales on midwifery training numbers increase

By RCM on 20 February 2017 Wales Bursaries and Scholarships Student midwives

Today the Welsh Government announced a 40% increase in the number of university places for student midwives in the coming academic year. Commenting on the announcement, Vicky Richards, National Officer at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in Wales said: “This is a very welcome increase in the numbers of student midwives. It will go a long way towards offsetting the large numbers of midwives due to retire in the coming years.

“We would like to see this increase maintained over the coming years to ensure our maternity services have the number of midwives needed to deliver safe, high quality care for women, babies and their families.

“Just two weeks ago the RCM published a report* highlighting the growing age of the midwifery workforce and the increasing pressures on maternity services in Wales, and stressing the need to ensure we replace those that will retire. I am glad that the Welsh Government has recognised this.

“This positive move by the Welsh Government is also helped by their continuing support for bursaries for student midwives.”

To contact the RCM Press Office call 020 7312 3456 or email pressofficer@rcm.org.uk.

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Notes to editors

*The RCM’s State of Maternity Services Report was published earlier this month and can be read at https://www.rcm.org.uk/sites/default/files/SoMS%20Report%202016_New%20Design_lowres.pdf

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/.