NMC safeguarding hub reviews more than 7,000 fitness to practise referrals

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has reviewed over 7,000 fitness to practise (FtP) referrals through a safeguarding lens, as part of a strengthened approach to identifying risks and protecting the public.

The regulator confirmed that its Safeguarding Hub — launched in September 2024 — has assessed 7,104 new referrals between its launch and December 2025. Each referral was reviewed by a safeguarding specialist to ensure that any potential risk of harm, abuse or neglect was identified at the earliest stage. Of these, 2,100 referrals were flagged as containing potential safeguarding concerns.

The NMC said the Hub was created to ensure vulnerable people receive timely protection and that registrants facing wellbeing risks are supported appropriately. The model is now considered a developing example of best practice within the organisation.

To reinforce this work, the NMC has also updated its Safeguarding Policy. The revised policy outlines how the regulator responds when it encounters individuals at risk, requires all staff to complete safeguarding training, and provides access to an emergency helpline for immediate advice.

Prof Donna O’Boyle MBE, Acting Executive Director of Professional Practice, said the Hub’s impact has been significant:

“Thanks to the Safeguarding Hub and the expertise of our Safeguarding Team, we’re able to quickly identify and escalate potential risks, to ensure people who are at risk of harm, abuse or neglect receive the support they need. Since the Hub launched, we have continued to evolve a model of best practice to ensure that safeguarding concerns receive the right level of oversight and are managed safely.”

The NMC emphasised that safeguarding remains central to its regulatory role, particularly as fitness to practise referrals often involve individuals in vulnerable circumstances. The organisation said the Hub’s work ensures that safeguarding risks are not only identified but acted upon swiftly to protect the public.

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