Would you like to become an RCM steward?
One of the objectives of the RCM is to recruit a steward in every workplace. Could it be you?
- Are you involved with the Royal College of Midwives?
- Do you take an interest in matters that affect your colleagues in general?
- Do you understand the issues facing midwives and maternity support workers?
If you can answer yes to any of these questions, then why not consider becoming a steward?
The role of the RCM steward is varied, interesting and demanding. It is a responsible position that can also be frustrating and thankless, but overall it is extremely rewarding and enables you to develop many new and transferable skills.
What do I need?
RCM membership (Full or MSW category)
An understanding of midwifery issues
An interest in protecting and enhancing the role of the midwifery team
Motivation to assist your colleagues and the profession
How do I become a steward?
Your peers, at a branch or workplace meeting, elect you to serve for the next year, and you are then accredited by the RCM.
How will the RCM help me?
The RCM will:
Provide dedicated training on an ongoing basis, with agreed expenses met
Assist in your professional development
Support you whenever it can
Provide specialist advice on employment and professional matters
Put you in contact with the hundreds of other members who also act as stewards for the RCM
Give access to Regional Officers/National Officers for advice and support
What would I be expected to do?
Represent the members in your area where necessary
Recruit midwives, maternity support workers and student midwives into the RCM Provide advice and act as a spokesperson
Perform individual casework
Conduct some negotiations
Provide feedback to members at meetings
Support the RCM Regional Officer/National Officer
Attend JSC and work in partnership with other NHS unions
What's in it for me?
Acquisition of easily transferable skills that will assist in your career development
A role in contributing to the changing role of the midwifery team
Gaining greater knowledge of the midwifery profession and service developments
Increased confidence and self-esteem
Training in employment and professional matters
The satisfaction of making a difference to members' working lives, helping others
Reasonable time off to carry out your duties as a steward
To find out more:
Contact your RCM Regional Officer if you work in England or Northern Ireland. Contact your National Officer if you work in Scotland or Wales.
The contact numbers, which are on the back of your RCM membership card, are as follows:
RCM UK Board for England 01332 444310
RCM UK Board for Northern Ireland (RCMUKBNI) 0289 024 1531
RCM UK Board for Scotland (RCMUKBS) 0131 225 1633
RCM UK Board for Wales (RCMUKBW) 0292 022 8111
