NMC supports forcibly displaced professionals to join its register

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has published a new policy to support forcibly displaced people to join its register safely.

The policy explains how the organisation will work with eligible applicants to take account of alternative evidence that shows how they meet NMC’s standards when applying to join its register, when it is safe and reasonable to do so.

Everyone joining its register must demonstrate they have the knowledge and skills to deliver the high standards of care that people have a right to expect – whether they were educated in the UK or internationally.

The NMC says it has made its processes as fair and proportionate as possible for the record numbers of international applicants to its register in recent years.

However, it recognises meeting its registration requirements can be difficult for those who have moved due to conflict, persecution, terrorism, human rights’ abuses, or violence.  For example, the documents it asks for may have been lost or destroyed, or it can’t contact third parties to verify the information someone has sent the NMC.

In these circumstances, the NMC may consider other types of evidence. This needs to demonstrate the applicant has the skills and knowledge they need to deliver safe, effective and kind care for people.

It says it will consider every application carefully and make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

Matthew McClelland, NMC Executive Director for Strategy and Insight, said: “Our registration processes are enabling record numbers of skilled, knowledgeable professionals from around the world to join our register as quickly and safely as possible.

“However, it can be harder for people who’ve been forcibly displaced to meet our requirements in the usual way.

“Our new policy will help us to support eligible applicants through the registration process, while also ensuring they meet our standards and can provide the safe, effective and kind care people have the right to expect.”

Applicants can read its Forcibly Displaced Person’s policy here.