WIREDGOV

A new model of clinical supervision for midwives in Wales was launched by Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Professor Jean White. The model will provide support and advice to midwives, giving opportunities for learning and improved practice to provide support to women in choices of care.

Speaking at a special event in the Senedd, Cardiff Bay the CNO announced the introduction of a new employer-led model of clinical supervision for midwives in Wales. 

The new model will change from the previous statutory supervision of midwives in Wales provided through Healthcare Inspectorate Wales and the Local Supervising Authority.  

The new employer led model will see full time clinical supervisors for midwives working within health boards, providing dedicated time and support to midwives, increasing their visibility and accessibility to midwives and supporting women’s birth experiences.  

The change from the current model is a consequence of investigations into maternity services at Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust and the decision by the Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman that midwifery supervision and regulation be separated. 

Professor White said:

“We expect the NHS in Wales to deliver maternity services which place the needs of the mother and family at the centre, so pregnancy and childbirth is a safe and positive experience where women are treated with dignity and respect.

“Clinical supervisors for midwives will motivate and support midwives to embrace the quality and safety culture that improves outcomes for women and their families.  The new model will also support and enable midwives to help women in making choices about their maternity care.”