RCM welcomes publication of new workforce strategy for Northern Ireland
By RCM on 15 May 2018 Health and social care Northern Ireland RCM Midwives Midwifery Workforce
A long term strategy for Northern Ireland’s health and social care workforce has been launched today (Monday 14th May) by the by the Department of Health alongside details of new staffing-related investment.
The health and social care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for Our People sets out goals for a workforce that will match the requirements of a transformed system. It also addresses the need to tackle serious challenges with supply, recruitment and retention of staff.
The Department of Health has also confirmed details of an initial allocation of £15m in workforce development, from the £100m transformation fund for 2018/19.
Commenting, The Royal College of Midwives (RCMs) Director for Northern Ireland Breedagh Hughes said; “The RCM welcomes the publication of this strategy and in particular achieving parity of esteem for mental health services as the RCM has campaigned for improved perinatal mental health services in Northern Ireland for many years.
“We are also pleased that midwifery- specific workforce challenges such as recruitment, retention and retirement have been highlighted as fundamental issues that must be tackled.
“Multidisciplinary working has also been identified as a key priority and having health and social care teams that have the right mix of skills, recognising the value and contribution of other healthcare professions is something the RCMs advocates for and supports.
“The RCM looks forward to working with the Department of Health on delivering the strategy and also sincerely hopes the absence of a Government in Northern Ireland does not the delay the implementation of this vital workforce strategy.”
The Workforce Strategy is available at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/health-and-social-care-workforce-strategy-2026
For media enquiries related to this strategy please contact the Department of Health Press Office team on 028 9052 0575 or email [email protected]
To contact the RCM Media Relations Team call 020 7312 3456 or email [email protected].
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The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/