MedWorm: Royal College of Midwives

Royal colleges step up Health Bill opposition

Healthcare Republic News — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:33:00 +0100

The Royal College of Radiologists has joined the Royal College of Nurses (RCN) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in opposing the Health and Social Care Bill. (Source: Healthcare Republic News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Chief midwife brands Lansley's comments 'below the belt'

HSJ — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:01:00 +0100

The chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives has hit back at the health secretary over claims that clinicians were opposing the government’s health bill because of concerns about pensions. (Source: HSJ)

RCM to consult members on gov pension proposals

Nursing in Practice — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:17:46 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) will seek member opinion on the government’s final pension plan proposal read more (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Two royal colleges declare opposition to Health Bill

HSJ — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 10:13:00 +0100

The Royal College of Nursing and the Royal College of Midwives have declared all out opposition to the government’s Health and Social Care Bill. (Source: HSJ)

Foetus parties: Womb with a view?

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 01:31:22 +0100

Prof Cathy Warwick, chief executive of the Royal College of Midwives, outlines her fears about the "commercialisation of childbirth" (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Shift to midwife-led units plus HCAs could ease staff shortage

Nursing Times Breaking News — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 00:30:00 +0100

The growing number and complexity of births must be met with more training, more support workers and more midwife-led services, the Royal College of Midwives has said. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

'On demand caesareans' recommended on the NHS

NHS News Feed — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 11:46:00 +0100

Any pregnant woman can now ‘demand’ a caesarean section regardless of medical need, much of the media has reported. Many of the reports focused on mothers who fear birth trauma now having the right to request a caesarean. The reports are based on new full guidance on caesarean sections from the National Institute for Health Clinical Excellence (PDF, 228kb). NICE says this guidance may actually reduce the proportion of caesareans because new guidelines insist women should be given better advice about their options at childbirth. Currently around one in four UK babies is delivered by caesarean. Some papers have linked NICE’s recommendations to a shortage of midwives. These reports are based on a claim by the Royal College of Midwives, in September, that an extra 4,700 midwives are need...

"There will be terrible casualties".

Nursing Standard — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

"There will be terrible casualties". Nurs Stand. 2011 Nov 9-15;26(10):24-5 Authors: Moore A Abstract Royal College of Midwives general secretary Cathy Warwick is urging the government to act now to save UK maternity services from deteriorating further. PMID: 22206169 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Nursing Standard)

Colleges join forces to improve maternal care

Nursing in Practice — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 14:17:07 +0100

The Royal College of General Practitioners, Royal College of Midwives and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have produced a joint statement on the important role of the GP in maternity care (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Mothers and babies at risk over craze for collecting umbilical cord blood

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:24:16 +0100

According to the Royal College of Midwives and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the procedure ‘distracts’ midwives at a very risky time during births. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Mothers-to-be at risk as parts of England are dangerously short of midwives

the Mail online | Health — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 22:09:46 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives claims midwife numbers have not kept pace with the birthrate in England, which has risen 22 per cent in the past two decades. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

The National Midwife Shortage

Gurgle — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:23:40 +0100

In parts of the UK mothers-to-be are being put at risk due to a dangerously short number of midwives. According to a new report from the Royal College of Midwives, midwife numbers have not kept pace with the birthrate in England, which has rise . . . (Source: Gurgle)

Midwife shortages 'risking lives'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:59:06 +0100

Parts of England are facing big midwife shortages, putting the safety of mothers and babies at risk, according to the Royal College of Midwives. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Mothers die because overworked midwives can’t cope

OnMedica Latest News — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Royal College of Midwives says England needs 4700 more midwivesRelated items from OnMedicaWomen’s health czar needed to lead on radical overhaulNICE to review fertility guidanceChanges to health visiting service will put kids at risk Half of trusts turn away expectant mothersStillbirths claim 17 babies every day in the UK (Source: OnMedica Latest News)

Birth defects linked for first time to smoking in pregnancy

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 23:01:03 +0100

Clubfoot and missing limbs among malformations in newborns proven to be associated with expectant mothers who smokeDoctors are urging mothers-to-be to give up cigarettes after new research linked smoking in pregnancy to babies suffering birth defects such as clubfoot, missing limbs and deformed limbs.Those who smoke while expecting a baby increase the risk of their child being born with a serious malformation by as much as 50%, the study found. The disclosure led to calls for new measures to reduce what the authors called "staggeringly high" levels of smoking among pregnant women.Although smoking by pregnant women has already been linked to a higher risk of a woman having a miscarriage or her baby being born prematurely or having a low birth weight, 45% of women under 20 do so while one in...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

ICM 2011: New president sworn in

WHO Maternal, Newborn and Child Health — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:29:00 +0100

23 JUNE 2011 – Frances Day-Stirk, Director of Learning Research and Practice Development at the Royal College of Midwives in London, UK, has taken over the top position at the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM). (Source: WHO Maternal, Newborn and Child Health)

RCOG Release: Electronic Fetal Monitoring Project Launched To Improve Birth Outcomes And Reduce Medical Litigation, UK

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 19 May 2011 09:00:00 +0100

Improving birth outcomes and reducing medical litigation costs are the aims behind the new Electronic Fetal Monitoring (eFM) project, launched today by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and e-Learning for Healthcare. Approximately 300,000 pregnant women undergo electronic intrapartum fetal monitoring (cardiotocography, CTG) in the UK annually. It is used to monitor the fetal heartbeat and uterine contractions. Medical litigation costs in this area are on the increase... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

National guidance on pregnancy and diabetes

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives and NHS Diabetes have published joint guidance for managing pregnant women with diabetes. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

RCM concern over midwifery cuts

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 10:04:00 +0100

Royal College of Midwives general secretary Cathy Warwick has described potential cuts to midwifery training places as “extremely worrying”. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

RCM honours top midwives

Nursing Times Breaking News — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 14:55:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives annual awards have honoured the makers of an educational DVD to help treat women that have undergone genetic mutilation and an initiative that has improved home birthing rates in Bradford. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Saturday 15- Monday 17 January

Royal College of Nursing News Alert — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:00:00 +0100

Health leaders warn: The Times has published a letter from medical and health professionals including Dr Hamish Meldrum of the British Medical Association, Dr Peter Carter of the Royal College of Nursing, Karen Jennings of Unison, Karen Reay of Unite, Professor Cathy Warwick of the Royal College of Midwives and Phil Gray of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, concerning the speed for reform in the NHS. The letter mentions they fear the speed and scale of the reforms, suggesting that the proposal to introduce price competition between the NHS and private companies risks undermining the care of patients by putting cost before quality. The letter accompanies an article in The Times, discussing the concerns over the NHS reforms. Peter Carter was interviewed by BBC News and Sky News. Health...

Meltdown on our maternity wards

Telegraph Health — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:12:10 +0100

In a shocking Telegraph investigation, midwives and parents tell Laura Donnelly that hospital staff shortages have made giving birth a dangerous lottery (Source: Telegraph Health)

Midwives accuse sceptical doctors of causing 'home birth backlash'

the Mail online | Health — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 01:02:33 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives has warned of a backlash against home births, because doctors are too quick to refer women for hospital deliveries. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Mothers-to-be 'scared away from having home births'

Scotsman.com News - Health of the NHS — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

THE Royal College of Midwives has warned of a "calculated and concerted backlash" against home births, saying some doctors are too prone to refer women automatically f (Source: Scotsman.com News - Health of the NHS)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Midwives condemn 'campaign against home births'

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 10:03:57 +0100

Researchers scare women into thinking home birth is not a safe option, says Royal College of MidwivesThe head of the Royal College of Midwives has condemned what she called a calculated campaign against home births intended to scare women into believing it was unsafe.Maternity services in the NHS were "embedded in a medicalised culture", meaning many women did not realise a home birth was a viable option, Cathy Warwick, general secretary of the organisation, said in a new year message.Speaking later on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Warwick said many UK obstetricians and gynaecologists favoured the option of home birth. Asked who was spreading the anti-home birth message, she said: "Researchers from across the world, who seem to be collaborating with the media … publishing studies which ...

RCM highlights maternity care variations

HSJ — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 10:34:00 +0100

Women should receive good maternity care wherever they live and should not have to rely on “chance and plain old good luck,” the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) has said. (Source: HSJ)

PM denies breaking midwifery pledge

Nursing Times Breaking News — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 10:18:00 +0100

David Cameron denied claims by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) that the coalition had reneged on a pre-election pledge and insisted he wanted to “see an increase in midwives”. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

'Government broke midwife pledge'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 12:01:22 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives general secretary Cathy Warwick has said the government has not delivered a pre-election pledge to increase midwife numbers in England. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Ministers 'broke midwife pledge'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 08:09:45 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives accuses the government of backing down on a pre-election pledge to increase their numbers. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Midwives warn of cuts to services

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:05:17 +0100

The head of the Royal College of Midwives has said she fears for the future of midwifery because of tight budgets in the face of a high birth rate. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Advice on weight management in pregnancy 'lacking' (BBC News Online, 15 November 2010)

Society for Endocrinology — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:00 +0100

A survey by the Royal College of Midwives and website Netmums has suggested that women may suffer from a lack of advice on weight management during and after pregnancy. Full article (Source: Society for Endocrinology)

'Celebrity mothers who lose weight quickly after giving birth put pressure on women'

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 08:46:21 +0100

Almost two-thirds of new mothers said they felt a degree of coercion to slim to their original size as soon as possible, a survey by the Royal College of Midwives found. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Midwives warn against maternity plans

Management in Practice — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 19:55:55 +0100

GPs should not be put in charge of commissioning maternity services, says the Royal College of Midwives (Source: Management in Practice)

Midwifery recruitment target 'still not clear'

Nursing Times Breaking News — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 07:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives says it is still trying to establish whether the government has a target for recruiting more midwives, noting that when in opposition, prime minister David Cameron had pledged to recruit 3,000. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

NHS 'scaring' women out of home births, top midwife says

Telegraph Health — Sat, 16 Oct 2010 15:06:05 +0100

Too many pregnant women are being treated as though they are "abnormal," and told their age or weight could put their child in danger, one of Britain's leading midwives has said. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Midwives warn increasing competition could destabilise services

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:59:00 +0100

The government’s proposals for an increasingly pro market NHS could result in the “disintegration” of the maternity care pathway, the Royal College of Midwives has warned. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Midwives warn increasing competition in NHS could destabilise services

HSJ — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 17:20:00 +0100

The government’s proposals for an increasingly pro market NHS could result in the “disintegration” of the maternity care pathway, the Royal College of Midwives has warned. (Source: HSJ)

Breastfeeding better than vaccines at preventing infection

NaturalNews.com — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Researchers in Greece are urging mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies for at least the first six months of their lives, based on new research findings. According to the study, babies who are exclusively breastfed for the first six months experience fewer infections than those who are either breastfed for a shorter period of time, or fed formula in addition to breast milk.Professor Emmanouil Galanakis and his colleagues tracked nearly 1,000 infants for a year, keeping track of their health. They then evaluated how the children were fed throughout their early months of development, and compared the results. They found that fully breastfed kids had significantly fewer infections than the other children."Mothers should be advised by health professionals that, in additio...

RCM freezes membership fees

Nursing Times Breaking News — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 07:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives announced that its membership fees would remain frozen at 2009 levels next year for the second year running. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Leading midwife hits back against claims that home births are dangerous

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:14:52 +0100

The general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, Cathy Warwick, said the benefits of home birth have been downplayed. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Midwives attack hysteria over home births

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 04:00:34 +0100

Leader of Britain's midwives disputes survey's claims that home birth is riskier than hospital deliveryA "concerted and calculated" backlash by some doctors is downplaying the benefits of home births and has involved the use of "flawed" evidence to support claims that babies were more likely to die if not born in hospital, the general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives claims today.Cathy Warwick, who heads the body that represents 38,000 midwives in Britain, has been incensed by a recent paper presented by US academics last month that claimed a home birth carried three times the risk that a baby would die.It prompted the respected medical journal the Lancet to write, in an editorial, that "women have the right to choose how and where to give birth, but they do not have the right to...

Home birth risk report criticised

Nursing Times Breaking News — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:29:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives has rejected claims that women who opt for a home birth put their baby at risk. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Home birth danger claim rejected

Nursing in Practice — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 06:25:16 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives has rejected claims published in The Lancet that giving birth at home is too risky (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Maternity guidelines published by RCM

Nursing Times Breaking News — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 06:17:15 +0100

Learning and development guidelines and standards specifically for maternity support workers have been published by the Royal College of Midwives. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Care during the third stage of labour: A postal survey of UK midwives and obstetricians

BioMed Central — Thu, 20 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Active management of the third stage of labour is widely used by both obstetricians and midwives in the UK. Syntometrine is usually used for vaginal births and oxytocin for caesarean births; when this is given and when the cord is clamped varies. (Source: BioMed Central)

Midwives call in investment pledges

Nursing Times Breaking News — Thu, 13 May 2010 07:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives has called on the new coalition government to honour promises made by the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties to invest in midwives and maternity services. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Andrew Lansley welcomed by NHS professionals

HSJ — Wed, 12 May 2010 15:38:00 +0100

The British Medical Association, Royal College of Nursing and Royal College of Midwives have all welcomed the appointment of Andrew Lansley as the new health secretary. (Source: HSJ)

Royal College of Midwives warns against NHS cuts

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 05 May 2010 11:06:00 +0100

Cuts being planned for the NHS could lead to the emergence of “baby factories”, the disappearance of some hospitals from cities and a general worsening of healthcare in the UK, the Royal College of Midwives trade union has said. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Midwives themselves are barrier to reducing C-sections

Nursing Times Breaking News — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Many midwives remain unconvinced of the need to reduce Caesarean section rates, the general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives has warned. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

High impact actions for nursing and midwifery

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:01 +0100

A group of experienced nurses and midwives posted 600 submissions over three weeks identifying high impact actions that have the potential to not only transform the care patients receive, but to also reduce costs. Eight high impact actions were announced at the Chief Nursing Officers conference in 2009. These were: your skin matters (pressure ulcers); staying safe preventing falls; keeping nourished getting better; promoting normal birth; important choices where to die when the time comes; fit and well to care; ready to go no delays and protect from infection. This work is being led by the chief nurses from the 10 strategic health authorities in collaboration with the Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Nursing, the Nursing and Midwifery Council, the NHS Institute for...

Safer births : supporting maternity services to improve safety

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:01 +0100

The Safer Births initiative, a partnership between The Kings Fund, Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries, NHS Litigation Authority and the National Patient Safety Agency, aims to improve the safety of maternity services in England. This resource outlines the project brief, describes a number of regional events held by the Safer Births team in 2009, and provides links to related reports. The site includes the names and positions of the project team and a short description of each organisational partner. (Source: Latest Internet resources added to Intute: Health and LifenSciences nursing gateway)

NHS Confederation Comments On Andrew Lansley's Speech To Royal College Of Midwives

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 10:00:00 +0100

NHS Confederation director of policy Nigel Edwards comments on shadow health secretary Andrew Lansley's speech to the Royal College of Midwives. "It is right that political focus remains on maternity services and we welcome today's proposals which would give greater support to mothers to-be. We must always remember the safety of mother and child must be paramount in any reform. "While much effort and investment has been put into improving maternity and midwifery services, there still remains a shortage of midwives available and issues with how services are configured... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

British First Lady Highlights Maternal Mortality Worldwide

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Sarah Brown, wife of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and head of the Maternal Mortality Campaign, highlighted global maternal mortality at the Royal College of Midwives annual conference on Friday, the U.K. Press Association reports. "Every one of these maternal deaths is a tragedy but that's not all. The tragedy is not only the loss of too many mothers because when one mother survives a lot survives with her. A mother's survival is crucial to her baby's welfare and often her baby's life," Brown said... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

20% of student midwives "in debt"

Nursing in Practice — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:53:13 +0100

A fifth of all midwives can expect debts of more than £10,000 when they graduate, the Royal College of Midwives says (Source: Nursing in Practice)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

One in five student midwives will be left with £10k debt

Nursing Times Breaking News — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:56:00 +0100

A fifth of all student midwives will graduate with debts of more than £10,000, the Royal College of Midwives says. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Problems persist in maternity care

Nursing in Practice — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:04:23 +0100

A third of new mothers are left alone and uninformed after giving birth, the Royal College of Midwives has said (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Maternity should be exempt from spending cuts, says poll

Nursing Times Breaking News — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:27:00 +0100

Two thirds of people in England believe NHS maternity services should be excluded from cuts in Government spending, according to the Royal College of Midwives (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

Domestic use of foetal heart monitors putting babies at risk

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:05:16 +0100

• Expectant mothers should not rely on devices• Inexperienced users often hear their own heartbeatFoetal heart monitors, which growing numbers of expectant parents use at home to listen to their unborn child's heartbeat, are potentially dangerous to the mother and baby's health, doctors warn today.The devices are routinely used in hospitals by doctors and midwives to assess a baby's health in utero. They have also become increasingly popular in recent years among parents, some of whom rent one or buy one from high street shops or chemists for use at home.But doctors writing in the British Medical Journal warn that parents-to-be may receive false reassurance that a baby is well and they might delay seeking urgent medical help. They cite the case of a pregnant woman in Sussex who noticed...

Domestic foetal heart monitors put babies at risk

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:05:16 +0100

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Spending on maternity 'now increasing'

HSJ — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Hospital trusts are significantly increasing their maternity spending for the first time in several years, according to research by the Royal College of Midwives. (Source: HSJ)

Home Births with Midwife Safe As Hospital for Babies, Fewer Infections and Less Bleeding for Moms

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has a long-standing opposition to home births. In fact, their official statement released last year actually accuses women who want a home birth of placing "the process of giving birth over the goal of having a healthy baby". The statement goes on to say "ACOG believes that the safest setting for labor, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period is in the hospital, or a birthing center within a hospital complex..." While ACOG may "believe" whatever that organization wants to, it would be more professional for them to base their policy on science-based facts. New research shows planned home births attended by registered midwives is every bit as safe as a hospital birth for babies. What's more, it appears to be a...

'Don't tell women how to give birth'

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:38:02 +0100

Birth shouldn't be a tug-of-war between pro home birth advocates and pro Caesareans - women should simply be given the information they need to make a choice, says Cathy Warwick of the Royal College of Midwives. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

RCOG/RCM Statement - Advice On Swine Flu And Pregnancy

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 07:00:00 +0100

Update 20 July 2009: Statement from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) about the recent news about advice for pregnant women in Australia and New Zealand. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Academy of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting Research (UK)

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:01 +0100

The Academy of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting Research (UK) was established as a collaborative enterprise by the Royal College of Nursing, CPHVA UNITE and the Royal College of Midwives in partnership with The Council of Deans for Health, the Nurse Directors group of the Association of UK University Hospitals, the Association for Leaders in Nursing, the Queens Nursing Institute, Mental Health Nurse Academics UK, the UK Clinical Research Facility Network and Nurses in Primary Care Research. The Academy aims to be an expert voice on all matters relating to research that involves UK midwives, nurses and health visitors, and the website is intended for this audience. The site provides advice on the issues relating to the employment of clinical academics, a number of case studies ...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Swine influenza 'flu' : the new type A (H1N1) influenza

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:00:01 +0100

This 5 page guidance, created by the Royal College of Midwives on 8th May 2009, aims to support midwives in providing information to pregnant and breastfeeding women about the health implications of the recent 'swine flu' outbreak in the United Kingdom. Using a question and answer style format, the guidance provides information on the different types of influenza, the symptoms of swine flu, how to prevent and reduce transmission of infection, the latest advice on the use of face masks, and the specific considerations for pregnancy and breastfeeding women. The guidance includes a number of links for further information and advice sources. (Source: Latest Internet resources added to Intute: Health and LifenSciences nursing gateway)

Clinical learning environment and recruitment : report of a joint working party

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:01 +0100

This joint report from the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) recommends strategies for improving the clinical environment for healthcare students within the UK. Using several undergraduate student surveys, the report reviews the experiences of medical and midwifery students on clinical placements and identifies the key issues which may act as barriers to a positive learning experience. The report is intended for a wide audience within healthcare, from students to senior professionals and was published in 2008. (Source: Latest Internet resources added to Intute: Health and LifenSciences nursing gateway)

NHS not focused on home births

Nursing in Practice — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 05:27:04 +0100

While home births have been proven to be as safe as hospital births, the NHS is not ready to meet demand, says the Royal College of Midwives (Source: Nursing in Practice)

Giving birth at home "is as safe as in hospital"

Management in Practice — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 20:47:15 +0100

... but the NHS needs 5,000 extra midwives for home births to become widespread, according to the Royal College of Midwives (Source: Management in Practice)

Midwives hit back at government drive to reduce weight of NHS staff

Nursing Times Breaking News — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:01:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives has hit back at the Department of Health’s suggestion that NHS staff should lose weight. (Source: Nursing Times Breaking News)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Health inequalities review: commissioners announced

HSJ — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:44:00 +0100

The 11 commissioners include national workforce director Dame Carol Black, Royal College of Physicians president Professor Ian Gilmore, Birmingham University professor of health policy and management Chris Ham, East London and City Mental Health trust chair Baroness Molly Meacher, Young Foundation director Professor Geoff Mulgan and Royal College of Nursing and Royal College of Midwives vice president Baroness Julia Cumberlege. (Source: HSJ)

Midwives 'more overworked than in past 10 years'

Telegraph Health — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:05:36 +0100

Midwives are more overworked than they have been at any time in the past 10 years new figures show. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Hospitals failing to help mothers breastfeed babies: Unicef

Telegraph Health — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:21:00 +0100

Just one in ten babies in England is born in a hospital that adequately promotes breastfeeding Unicef has found. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Sharing a bed with a baby does not increase risk of cot death research shows

Telegraph Health — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 15:50:34 +0100

Sharing a bed with a baby does not increase the risk of cot death according to a major new study which could change the way infants are cared for. (Source: Telegraph Health)

NCT information sheet : straightforward birth

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 03:30:00 +0100

One in a series of information sheets produced by the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), this resource is available on the Web and also as leaflets which can be purchased from the NCT. This resource discusses what women can do for themselves to make a straightforward birth more likely. Topics covered include: care during pregnancy, choosing birth partner(s), helping the baby into the best position for birth, dealing with anxiety, tips for managing labour, and preparing for a hospital birth if a home birth is not possible or desired. A link to the Royal College of Midwives 'Campaign for Normal Birth' website is provided. (Source: Latest Internet resources added to Intute: Health and LifenSciences nursing gateway)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

The Quality Of Maternity Care, Staffing Levels And Pay Top Table Of Midwives' Worries, UK

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:00:00 +0100

The quality of maternity care, overstretched staffing levels and low pay are the issues that most concern midwives, reveals a survey published by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM). The survey of midwives across the UK also showed that most midwives felt that working today as a midwife is more challenging than it was five years ago. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

NICE Labour Induction Guidelines Welcomed By Midwives, UK

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:00:00 +0100

Mervi Jokinen Practice and Standards Development Adviser at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: "The RCM always welcomes information to support informed choice. As induction of labour is one of the most common interventions in pregnancy - on average 1 in 5 women undergo an induction in England - they will be important to women and professionals alike. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Maternity Services Should Be Priority Say Midwives, UK

Nursing News From Medical News Today — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:00:00 +0100

Commenting on the release recently of the Healthcare Commission Report 'Better Births - A Review of Maternity Services in England', Dame Karlene Davis, general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The good news is that many women are happy with the service, and that many Trusts are making great efforts to further improve their maternity care. It is a great shame that the good examples are overshadowed by the bad ones. (Source: Nursing News From Medical News Today)

RCOG Releases Standards In Maternity And Gynaecology, UK

Pregnancy News From Medical News Today — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) releases two important documents focusing on women's healthcare. The documents are: - Standards for Maternity Care. A report from a working party, jointly produced by the RCOG, and Royal College of Anaesthetists, Royal College of Midwives, and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)

Royal College of Midwives

RDFunding RSS feed — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 21:55:56 +0100

RCM Midwifery Awards Amount: Unspecified Closing Date : 03 October 2008 (Source: RDFunding RSS feed)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Nursing & Midwifery Council - joint union response to CHRE report

Royal College of Nursing - UK- National News — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 12:33:35 +0100

Responding to the damning report by the Council for Regulation of Health Excellence (CHRE) into the conduct of the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council), health unions, the Royal College of Nursing, UNISON, Royal College of Midwives and Unite have issued a joint statement: (Source: Royal College of Nursing - UK- National News)

Midwives reject Government 3 year pay offer

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:28:16 +0100

Members of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) have overwhelmingly rejected the 3 year pay deal negotiated by Unison, RCN, the DH and NHS Employers. RCM members expressed strong support for the 2.75% one year pay deal recommended by the National Health Service Pay Review Body. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwives Announce New General Secretary

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 23 May 2008 15:09:51 +0100

One of the country's leading midwives, Professor Cathy Warwick CBE, has been appointed as the next General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM). She will succeed Dame Karlene Davis who retires in October this year. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwives welcome minister's intervention in Gwent Trust

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 21 May 2008 15:39:36 +0100

Responding to the announcement today by Health Minister Edwina Hart, that Gwent NHS Trust maternity services are to be put under special measures, Helen Rogers, Royal College of Midwives (RCM) Director for Wales, said: "We welcome the minister's actions to put Gwent Trust's maternity services on special measures. It is indicative of the depth of the problems there that such action is needed." (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

NHS South Central Vision Document given guarded welcome

Royal College of Midwives — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:01:42 +0100

Commenting on the release today of the South Central, Strategic Health Authority Vision Document, Judy Slessar, South Central Regional Officer for the Royal College of Midwives, said: "I am glad to see that the Strategic Health Authority (SHA) acknowledges the impact of the increasing birth-rate and complexity of births on the quality of care that women and babies in the area receive. It is very welcome and encouraging that the Vision Document sets out steps to address these issues. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Poor staffing levels anger Royal College and Gwent midwives

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 14 May 2008 00:12:03 +0100

Community Midwives in Gwent are appealing to health minister Edwina Hart to step in over a staffing dispute with Gwent Health Care Trust. The midwives - supported by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) - are calling for an extra sixteen full time midwives at the Trust to ensure a good standard of care for women and babies. The midwives and the RCM were originally asking for thirty-one extra staff. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

New DVD To Help Midwives Support Mums With Breastfeeding, UK

Nursing News From Medical News Today — Mon, 12 May 2008 08:00:00 +0100

To mark the start of National Breastfeeding Awareness Week (11-17th May 2008), Best Beginnings, the UK child health charity and the Department of Health, NHS Health Scotland, Welsh Assembley Government and the Health promotion agencies in Northern Ireland are today launching a new breastfeeding DVD at the Royal College of Midwives Annual Conference. (Source: Nursing News From Medical News Today)

RCM inaugurates midwife with 30 years NHS experience as new president

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 08 May 2008 20:08:59 +0100

Liz Stephens, a passionate advocate and activist for midwives, mothers and babies, is the new president of the Royal College of Midwives. Ms. Stephens, a consultant/ caseload midwife, has more than 30 years experience in the NHS. Throughout her career, Ms. Stephens has continued in clinical practice and is an active midwifery practioner. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Babies in danger on overstretched maternity wards - while midwives cannot find jobs

the Mail online | Health — Mon, 05 May 2008 19:24:24 +0100

The Government was accused last night of putting lives at risk because of a chronic shortage of jobs for midwives. A shock survey published today by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) concludes that overstretched maternity services face breaking point (Source: the Mail online | Health)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Student Midwives: Delivered into debt and uncertainty about job prospects.

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 04 May 2008 20:02:48 +0100

More than 90 percent of final year midwifery students are struggling to find a job, a new survey published today by the Royal College of Midwives reveals. The survey also showed that 58 percent of midwifery students were concerned about getting a job. The survey comes as the midwifery profession is moving into a new era as an all graduate profession. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Welsh Student Midwives: Delivered into debt and uncertainty about job prospects.

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

More than ninety percent of final year midwifery students are struggling to find a job, a new survey published today by the Royal College of Midwives reveals. The survey also showed that 58 percent of midwifery students were concerned about getting a job. The survey comes as the midwifery profession is moving into a new era as an all graduate profession. The Head of the RCM in Wales Helen Rogers said: "Midwifery in Wales has been an all graduate profession for some time now. However, the RCM is aware that student midwives are under considerable financial pressure. We are also aware that newly qualified midwives are finding it much more difficult to find jobs." (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Northern Irish Student Midwives: Delivered into debt and uncertainty about job prospects.

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

More than ninety percent of final year midwifery students are struggling to find a job, a new survey published today by the Royal College of Midwives reveals. The survey also showed that 58 percent of midwifery students were concerned about getting a job. The survey comes as the midwifery profession is moving into a new era as an all graduate profession. The RCM's Regional Officer for Northern Ireland Mary Cadell said: "Irish midwifery students are telling us that they are mired in student debts and childcare costs. Our student members have told us that they are facing considerable personal financial problems while they are training to be midwives. What message is this giving to potential student midwives who are caring for the next generation of mothers in Northern Ireland?" (Source: Roya...

Scottish Student Midwives: Delivered into debt and uncertainty about job prospects.

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 04 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100

More than ninety percent of final year midwifery students are struggling to find a job, a new survey published today by the Royal College of Midwives reveals. The survey also showed that 58 percent of midwifery students were concerned about getting a job. The survey comes as the midwifery profession is moving into a new era as an all graduate profession. The RCM UK Board for Scotland Director Gillian Smith said: "For several years, we have had a guarantee of 12 months employment in Scotland on qualification, however it is often difficult for recently qualified midwives to get a placement in a maternity unit of their choice and they may have difficulties with moving because of other commitments." (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwives Concerned At New Diet And Baby Gender Research, UK

Pregnancy News From Medical News Today — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:00:00 +0100

Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of The Royal College of Midwives, said: "We do empathise with mothers who may want a baby of a particular sex. However, having a good diet before conception and during pregnancy can lay the foundations for a healthier life for the unborn child, and the mother. Midwives are there to advise and support mothers about a healthy diet that produces a healthy child and one that will also improve and sustain the health of the mother. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Midwives' Council rejects Government three year pay offer

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 20:29:47 +0100

In a meeting today, The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) governing council voted to recommend to RCM members that they reject the Government's three year pay offer for midwives. The Council has authorised the College to consult with its members on the offer. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

The RCM slates bully-boy tactics on NHS pay

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 20:12:51 +0100

David Nicholson, NHS Chief Executive has written to NHS stakeholders outlining the current situation on the proposed NHS pay deal. In the letter he says: "If the proposed agreement is not accepted by union members, the Government reserves the right to review its response to the NHS PRB (Pay Review Body) recommendations and decide whether to accept, stage or abate them in the context of a one year settlement.' (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

The RCM responds to the Fatherhood Institute's report: Mothers and babies will remain our priority

Royal College of Midwives — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 07:49:56 +0100

Responding to the release today (14th April) of the Fatherhood Institute's report "The Dad Deficit: The Missing Piece of the Maternity Jigsaw" and its 12-point action plan, Janet Fyle, professional policy advisor, of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "Midwives are women's advocates. They will continue to serve and promote the interests of mothers and babies so that women have a positive outcome to their pregnancy and birth. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Mary Seacole Award Steering Group seeking new member

NHS Networks — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:14:23 +0100

The Mary Seacole Award Steering Group wishes to appoint an independent member to the Group. This is a voluntary role. The Group meets quarterly and its purpose is to support awardees during their award year and to manage the awards process. The awards are given annually in recognition of Mary Seacole's leadership and outstanding contribution to nursing. The Group is comprised of one representative from each of the following: Department of Health NHS Employers Royal College of Midwives Royal College of Nursing UNISON Unite CPHVA Previous Mary Seacole Award winner Independent member The Appointee will be expected to have the capacity to dedicate sufficient time and energy to the work add value and offer different perspectives to decision making bring...

Antenatal Care: Routine Care for the Healthy Pregnant Woman

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:39:00 +0100

Educational Launch Meeting: NICE Guideline Update (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Maternity Safety in Practice - Seminar 1

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 08:38:53 +0100

Measuring for Improvement - moving beyond learning from incidents. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

The RCM will not recommend long-term pay offer for midwives

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 18:58:55 +0100

Commenting on the long-term pay deal for midwives and 1.2 million NHS workers, Dame Karlene Davis, general secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said that that RCM would not recommend the long-term pay offer. The Pay Review Body recommendation of 2.75 percent for 2008/09 is due to be announced today. NHS staff have also been offered 2.4 percent for 2009/10 and 2.25 percent in 2010/11. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Health Unions React to NHS Pay Offer

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Health unions representing healthcare scientists, health visitors, speech and language therapists, clinical psychologists, chaplains, mental health nurses, skilled support staff in maintenance and estates, midwives, physiotherapists, radiographers, chiropodists, orthoptists, dieticians and clinical scientists have issued the following statement in response to a multi-year pay offer for NHS staff: (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Home Birth Safe But Support Services Needed, UK

Nursing News From Medical News Today — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 10:00:00 +0100

Responding to research on home births published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dame Karlene Davis, General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The research is welcome, but it is far from conclusive. Women planning a home birth should not be worried, because with the proper support and resources in place a home birth is safe. "The nature of transfer means that complications are anticipated or evident. (Source: Nursing News From Medical News Today)

Home birth safe but support services needed

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:44:07 +0100

Responding to research on home births published today (2 April 2008) in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dame Karlene Davis, General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The research is welcome, but it is far from conclusive. Women planning a home birth should not be worried, because with the proper support and resources in place a home birth is safe. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Avoid alcohol in pregnancy says Royal College

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 11:31:17 +0100

Responding to the release today of new NICE antenatal guidelines for pregnant women, Mervi Jokinen of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "We welcome the guidelines which are evidence based, but feel that more clarity is needed about pregnancy and alcohol. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Avoid Alcohol In Pregnancy, Says Royal College Of Midwives, UK

Pregnancy News From Medical News Today — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 10:00:00 +0100

RCM respond to new NICE antenatal guidelinesResponding to the release today (26 March 2008) of new NICE guidelines for pregnant women, Mervi Jokinen of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "We welcome the guidelines which are evidence based, but feel that more clarity is needed about pregnancy and alcohol. "Midwives are there to discuss the evidence with women and encourage informed choice about drinking alcohol when pregnant. (Source: Pregnancy News From Medical News Today)

The RCM responds to new NICE guidance on diet and nutrition for babies and toddlers

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Responding to the release today (26 March 2008) of new NICE guidelines on diet and nutrition for pregnant women, Janet Fyle, professional policy advisor, of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "We welcome the guidelines which call for a national consistency in the support available to address disparities in nutrition of mothers and young children from low income and disadvantaged families. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Size not everything in maternity services

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:18:12 +0100

Commenting on the release today by the Conservative Party of figures on maternity unit sizes and number of closures, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "This is welcome research and we will be looking at it with interest. Size is not everything in maternity care, big does not mean better, and we would question whether bigger maternity units means better care for women and their babies. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwives not getting jobs wastes taxpayers' money

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:28:07 +0100

Responding to the figures released by the Liberal Democrats today on the number of midwives unable to find jobs after qualification, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "Workforce planning around midwife numbers has been a rollercoaster ride of peaks and troughs, and not planning for the future or learning from the past. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

RCM welcomes pension payments fo rvoluntary work overseas

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 20:39:25 +0100

Responding to the announcement by Douglas Alexander, Secretary of State for International Development, that the Government will pay the pension contributions of public sector staff who volunteer overseas, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "This is a very positive and welcome move that will ultimately help to save lives and improve the health and wellbeing of mothers and babies in developing countries. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

RCM welcomes pension payments for voluntary work overseas

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Recruitment Of Midwives Needs A Boost, Says The Royal College Of Midwives, UK

Nursing News From Medical News Today — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 09:00:00 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives says the numbers of NHS midwives is not enough, despite the increase. Responding to the latest NHS workforce statistics published today, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The slight increase in the number of midwives is welcome, but it trails in the wake of the rapidly rising birthrate which is swamping midwives and affecting the quality of care they can give. (Source: Nursing News From Medical News Today)

Women and midwives working together can tackle birth pains

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 20:00:45 +0100

Commenting on the release today of new research 'More in hope than expectation: Women's experience and expectations of pain relief in labour' from Newcastle University, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "I welcome this report because it highlights how important it is for women to discuss the forthcoming birth with their midwife, looking at the issue of pain and how it can be managed. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwife recruitment needs accelerating

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100

Responding to the latest NHS workforce statistics published today, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The slight increase in the number of midwives is welcome, but it trails in the wake of the rapidly rising birthrate which is swamping midwives and affecting the quality of care they can give. Our latest figures also show that almost half of all midwives are set to retire over the next decade. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Cutting the cuts: Focus on normality and reducing the Caesarean section rate

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 08:01:15 +0100

"Cutting the cuts"- Focus on normality and reducing the Caesarean section rate Date/time:13 March 2008 1030-1630 Venue: RCM Leeds Fee: Band B There is increasing concern about the current number of caesarean sections being performed and the longer-term health implications for both the mother and the baby. The Institute for Innovation and Improvement has undertaken intense work to identify a number of steps, which can be taken by midwives and doctors to reduce the caesarean section rate. This interactive workshop provides an opportunity for midwives to address practices in their own unit and to consider simple cost effective approaches to improve the normal birth rate. All midwives will gain something from this day and senior clinical midwives and heads of midwifer...

VSO health information day

Royal College of Midwives — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 09:02:18 +0100

VSO Health Information Day8th March 2008, Putney, LondonVSO is hosting an Information Day for health professionals in London on Saturday 8th March. If you are interested in international work with VSO, attending an information day will enable you to find out more about our current health placements in your professional area. The event includes presentations from returned volunteers, giving you an insight into what it is really like to be a VSO volunteer. Further information about the event can be found at www.vso.org.uk/events . Attendance must be pre-booked, so please call 020 8780 7500 or e-mail enquiry@vso.org.uk to reserve your place. Places are limited, so please book early. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

NHS Trusts must pull fingers out on maternity services say midwives

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 20:52:19 +0100

This report is welcome because it places the safety of the mother and baby where it should be, and that is right at the heart of care. The key issue is that the report recognises that the UK is still one of the safest places in the world in which to give birth. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Promoting and facilitating normal childbirth

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 08:57:53 +0100

15 credits at Level 3Download flyer (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives announces retirement from post in October 2008

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 20:46:59 +0100

Dame Karlene Davis to retire in October (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Top UK midwife to step down as Royal College General Secretary

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100

After leading the midwifery profession as General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) for the last 10 years, Dame Karlene Davis announced today that she will be standing down from her post in October this year. Breaking the news to the UK Council of the RCM, Dame Karlene told midwives that whilst she was leaving the RCM's employment she still intended working to support midwifery and the NHS in the future. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

FSA money guide for parents is welcome move

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 21:09:30 +0100

Commenting on the publication of the Financial Services Authority 'Parent's Guide to Money' published today, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: "Having a baby can put huge pressures on people's finances so a common-sense guide such as this will help women and their families to plan and manage their money, so it is welcome and has our support. It will help midwifes to direct women to the information they require. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

The RCM responds to baby mix-up case at East Midlands hospital

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 08:33:51 +0100

The Royal College of Midwives Board Secretary Breedagh Hughes expressed her concern at the incident at the Bassetlaw Hospital, Nottingham, where two babies were accidentally swapped. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

The RCM's statement on the Conservative Party's proposal for Maternity Nurses

Royal College of Midwives — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 20:34:33 +0100

Commenting on the Conservative Party's plan to provide a dedicated maternity nurse for every new mother in her home for up to six hours a day for the first week after a baby's birth outlined in The Observer (Feb. 3rd), Louise Silverton, deputy general secretary, of the Royal College of Midwives, said the plan put the spotlight on post-natal care, but criticised it as expensive and unrealistic. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

RCM Statement on Immigration and the Maternity Crisis

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:51:12 +0100

Dame Karlene Davis, General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "The Royal College of Midwives believes that all women should be given access to maternity care in this country, irrespective of their immigration status. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Government needs jolting from maternity services slumber

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:31:13 +0100

Commenting on the Healthcare Commission (HCC) Review of Maternity Services published today (Friday, 25 January 2008), Dame Karlene Davis, General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: "This review provides a good base to measure Trusts' delivery of maternity services, and it is encouraging that over half of the Trusts are performing well. The key thing for women reading this review is to remember (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Liverpool midwife and advocate for ethnic communities wins midwifery lifetime achievement award

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 11:08:40 +0100

A Liverpool midwife with 32 years experience in the profession has been awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM). Dorcas Akeju OBE received her award Thursday (Jan. 17). She received a glass trophy from RCM General Secretary Karlene Davis at the RCM's sixth annual midwifery awards. More than 200 midwives from across the UK attended the ceremony at the Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwife crisis looms for London

Royal College of Midwives — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 01:49:43 +0100

London tops league for the number of midwife vacancies in the UK as RCM asks for fair pay deal for midwives. The numbers of midwives joining the NHS in London fell sharply this year a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. At the same time births in the region have increased from 104,162 in 2001 to 120,883 in 2006, a 14% increase.* The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

South East's Midwife numbers head south

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

The numbers of midwives leaving the NHS in the South East increased this year, a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. At the same time births in the region have risen from 88,510 in 2001 to 98, 529 in 2006, a rise of 11.3%.* The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Eastern England's Midwife numbers are moving in the wrong direction

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Midwife recruitment and retention in the East of England is among the worst in the UK, a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM is submitting to the Independent Pay Review Body (IPR), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. The number of midwives joining the NHS in the region has fallen with 84.1 joining this year compared to 102 in 2006. The region also fares badly for the number of midwives leaving with 102.6 leaving this year, up from 80 in 2006. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

East Midlands' recruitment rate falls while birth rate rises

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

Midwife numbers in the East Midlands are dropping a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. At the same time the region's birth-rate is increasing sharply. The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

North West midwives struggling with baby boom; Midwives vacancies rise in North West as birth rate soars

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

RCM asks for fair pay deal for midwives Midwife recruitment is failing to keep up with the rising birth-rate in the North West a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Drop in number of midwives joining the NHS in Wales, while the country's birth rate rises

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

The number of midwives joining the NHS in Wales dropped this year according to figures released today by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM). The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM is submitting to the Independent Pay Review Body (IPR), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

South West has few midwives but more births

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

The numbers of midwives leaving the NHS in the South West has risen this year, a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. At the same time births in the region are increasing. The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

West Midlands midwife numbers falling as birth-rate rises

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

The numbers of midwives leaving the NHS in the West Midlands is outstripping the numbers joining, a new survey from the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) reveals. At the same time births in the region have increased by 11.9% over the last five years, going from 60,818 in 2001 to 67,688 in 2006.*The figures from surveys of Heads of Midwifery (HoMs) and midwives form part of the evidence the RCM has submitted to the Independent Pay Review Body (PRB), which will recommend the pay award for midwives for 2008. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Find the best January Sales in the UK.

Drop in the number of midwives joining the NHS in Wales, while the country's birth-rate rises

Royal College of Midwives — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100

CEMACH report 2003-2005: Saving mothers' lives

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 01:42:08 +0100

CEMACH have launched their most recent report on maternal deaths (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

RCM concerned about 26 midwives in "registration limbo"

Royal College of Midwives — Sat, 08 Dec 2007 01:51:36 +0100

Commenting on the Nursing and Midwifery Council's decision Thursday to reverse its decision to allow specialist community public health nurses to renew their NMC registration without first renewing their midwifery registration, the Royal College of Midwives has expressed concern about 26 midwives on the SPCHN (Specialist Community Public Health Nurse) who no longer have an effective midwifery registration. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Midwives can bridge the chasm of health inequality

Royal College of Midwives — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 01:44:50 +0100

This report throws a spotlight on issues that need urgently addressing. More has to be done to improve women's health and to bridge the chasm of health inequality separating rich and poor. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Saving mothers' lives: 2003-2005 report launch

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 01:37:41 +0100

Saving mothers' lives continues the series of reports previously entitled Why mothers die and presents the findings of the confidential enquiries into maternal deaths in the UK during 2003-2005. This major conference event is aimed at all health care professionals involved in the care of pregnant and recently-delivered women both in primary and secondary care. Additionally the findings and recommendations are highly relevant to managers of services, service planners and providers, risk and clinical governance managers and lecturers of education in this area of health care. December 4th: Royal National Hotel, Russell Square, LONDON WC1 December 5th: Mercure Holland House Hotel, CARDIFFDecember 6th: Lancashire County Cricket Ground, MANCHESTER The event in Manchester also has a video confere...

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Please support the Doctors In Chains campaign for the medics tortured and sentenced for up to 15 years in Bahrain. #FreeDoctors

Midwife Numbers Key to Improving Maternity Services

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 14:13:24 +0100

Responding to the Healthcare Commission's Survey on women's experiences of maternity services, Louise Silverton, Deputy General Secretary of the Royal College of Midwives, said: "It is vitally important to hear the views of women about the care they receive from maternity services, and I am delighted to see that so many are pleased with their care. Only by hearing and listening to women's views can the service improve and adapt to meet their needs. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Baby milk advert changes long overdue say midwives

Royal College of Midwives — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 02:01:06 +0100

Commenting on the introduction of tighter controls on labelling and advertising regulations on infant and follow on formula, Frances Day-Stirk, Director of Learning Research and Practice Development at the Royal College of Midwives, said: "We have been calling for a long time for the Government to tackle this issue, so this is a very welcome first step. We are calling for a complete ban on promotion of breast-milk substitutes, so it is a little disappointing that this has not been implemented. We will continue to work with the Government to achieve the best possible regulations, to ensure that women are given the information to make an informed choice about how they feed their baby. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

Don't drink say midwives

Royal College of Midwives — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 14:09:47 +0100

Commenting on the release of research today (14 November 2007) on pregnancy and binge drinking, Mervi Jokinen, Practice & Standards Development Advisor at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), said: "The RCM is deeply concerned that this study could imply that there is little substantive evidence that binge drinking while pregnant seriously harms a developing foetus and gives the impression that drinking during pregnancy is safe. (Source: Royal College of Midwives)

AMRC announces new Chair

Society for Endocrinology — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 12:00:00 +0100

The Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) has announced that Baroness Cumberlege CBE DL will be its new chair. Baroness Cumberlege is an active life peer in the House of Lords with extensive health sector experience. She was a junior health minister from 1992 to 1997, covering all health and social services matters in the House of Lords, and a member of the NHS policy board between 1989 and 1997. Julia is a co-Chair of the Associate Parliamentary Health Group, and the All Party Parliamentary Osteoporosis Group and secretary of the Dying Well Parliamentary Group. She served on the select committee reviewing the Draft Mental Health Bill and the select committee examining the issues surrounding Stem Cell Research and Cloning. Julia Cumberlege is a Vice President of the Royal Co...