Andrea Sutcliffe CBE, Chief Executive and Registrar for the Nursing and Midwifery Council has issued a statement on winter pressures to reassure nurses.
In the statement, Ms Sutcliffe said:
“The current conditions in health and social care are incredibly tough. I know from talking to those working across, and using, different health and care services how difficult it is for professionals, and the impact it is having on people receiving care. I want to thank all nurses, midwives and nursing associates for the essential work you’re doing for those in your care and acknowledge the anxieties people are experiencing.
“As I set out in a joint letter with UK CNOs, you may have concerns about how you care for people in this period. Remember that the Code is there to guide your professional judgements. And please also remember that concerns are only raised with us about a tiny minority of professionals each year, and when they are, we always take context into account.
“Nurses, midwives and nursing associates make a positive difference to people’s lives and set out to give safe, kind, effective care, so I understand it is disheartening when you feel the pressure on the system you’re working in is impacting on the work you do. Your employer has a duty of care towards you, so please don’t hesitate to talk to your managers and leaders if you’re finding it hard to cope. It is more important than ever that you’re supported to look after your own health and wellbeing, so you can care for others.
“On behalf of everyone at the NMC, I want to thank every professional on our register for the kind and compassionate care I know you’ll be providing, despite the difficulties you’re facing.”
In November 2022, the GMC & NMC wrote to doctors and nurses to also reassure them that they will consider ‘winter pressures’ when fitness to practise issues arise.
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