The profile of professional midwifery leadership in England

Abstract

Background The past decade has seen significant, system-wide changes to the midwifery profession as a result of major reports. A recurring theme throughout is the importance of professional midwifery leadership at a local, regional and national level. Aims To explore the profile of professional midwifery leadership in England following significant and system-wide changes to the midwifery profession over the past 10 years. Methods Access to an online survey was forwarded to Directors of Midwifery and Heads of Midwifery in England to gain understanding of the profile of midwifery leadership at a local, provider level. One-to-one meetings were conducted with senior, executive NHS professionals and chief executives from the Royal College of Nursing and Royal College of Midwives, politicians and members of the House of Lords. Findings Further recognition of midwifery as a separate profession is needed with due regard and formal authority afforded the profession at local, regional and national levels. Maternity services will benefit from employing a Director of Midwifery with direct access to the Trust Board. Conclusion There is a need for the national, regional and local senior midwifery structures to be reviewed with consideration given to a Chief Midwife nationally; Directors of Midwifery regionally and in every provider Trust in England.