NMC executive director on why insight matters in fitness to practise

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has underscored the importance of insight in strengthening nursing and midwifery practice, with Executive Director of Strategy and Insight Emma Westcott outlining how evidence and reflection are shaping reforms to the fitness to practise (FtP) process.

Westcott explained that the NMC’s vision for safe and effective practice depends on listening, learning, and acting on evidence. The regulator’s annual fitness to practise insight publication, released this week, highlights how data and registrants’ experiences inform decision‑making. Key findings include that dishonesty, often driven by fear or workplace pressure, is linked to the most serious sanctions; that many employer referrals are unnecessary and could be resolved locally through training and support; and that registrants who feel supported during investigations are more likely to see early closure or lighter outcomes.

Since launching its FtP Plan in April 2024, the NMC has been working to make the process faster, fairer, and more compassionate. Initiatives include a Professional Support and Engagement Team to provide tailored help for vulnerable registrants, a bespoke pathway for health‑related cases such as dementia, and improvements to first contact with registrants, recognising the stress of receiving a referral. Westcott emphasised that insight is not only about individual reflection but also about fostering open workplace cultures where staff feel safe to speak up, reducing the likelihood of concerns escalating to the regulator.

The NMC’s Employer Link Service continues to advise managers on whether referrals are necessary, helping reduce unnecessary stress and allowing the regulator to focus on serious cases. By embedding insight into fitness to practise processes, the NMC aims to balance public protection with compassionate regulation. Westcott concluded:

“Insight strengthens practice by helping us understand why things go wrong and how they can be put right. It’s central to building a fairer, more supportive fitness to practise process and ensuring safe care for the public.”

Disclaimer: The accuracy and information of news stories published on this website is accurate on the date of publishing. We endeavour to update stories if information change. You can contact us with change and update requests. Where possible, we will link to sources. Content on this website is for guidance purposes only. We cannot accept any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.