NMC commits to improving revalidation experience for disabled nurses

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has published new research that explores the challenges disabled members can encounter when revalidating, and how it can improve their experience.

In the latest NMC revalidation report, more disabled professionals revalidated this year compared to 2022-23. However, rates for disabled professionals remain lower than for those without disabilities.

To better understand the challenges disabled professionals face, the NMC conducted in-depth interviews and discussion groups with 29 people – including those on the register and those who had left – from across the UK, representing a wide range of disabilities and impairments.

The findings build on insights from the NMC’s Ambitious for Change research, which indicated that disabled professionals are less likely to begin the revalidation process compared to non-disabled professionals and those who prefer not to disclose their disability status.

The research reveals that the most challenging revalidation requirements for disabled professionals are practice hours, continuing professional development (CPD), and reflective discussions and confirmation.

Many of the professionals the NMC spoke to were uncertain about when to declare a disability and what the implications of doing so might be. There was also confusion around who is eligible to confirm their revalidation.

Disabled professionals also told the NMC that they did not always receive enough support from their employer, often due to discrimination or because they have moved to more flexible employment such as agency or Bank work.

Additionally, they told the NMC challenges posed by disability and neurodiversity in life and work also impact the revalidation process.

In their feedback, disabled professionals suggested that the NMC should ensure communication across all points of contact is clear and consistent, and that it proactively supports and engages with those who are struggling to revalidate.

Using this insight, the NMC is committed to help break down the barriers disabled professionals' experience.

This includes being more proactive in its support by updating supporting information on its website to make it more accessible.

The NMC will also provide clearer and more regular information across its newsletters, emails and social media posts. Importantly, the NMC will also factor these research findings in a future refresh of revalidation.

Emma Westcott, Assistant Director of Strategy and Insight at the NMC, said: “Revalidation is an essential part of professional practice for nurses, midwives and nursing associates to maintain their registration.

“However, we know that disabled professionals are more likely to opt out of making a revalidation submission, with our latest research highlighting some of the main reasons behind this.”

She added: “We’ve listened to the feedback and are adapting our existing guidance into more supportive resources tailored for disabled professionals.

“This research will also help inform what further support we can provide for disabled professionals as part of a future refresh of the revalidation process.

“It’s vital every professional has access to the opportunities, accurate information and right support to ensure revalidation is an equitable experience - so they can continue to develop their knowledge and skills throughout their careers for the benefit of the people in their care.”

Read the report here.