Overview
NIPEC has been commissioned by the Chief Midwifery Officer (CMO) to lead a regional review of the professional mandatory training requirements for midwives working in clinical practice across Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts in Northern Ireland.
The previous regional mandatory training matrix was developed in 2015. Since then, there have been significant changes in maternity services, workforce pressures, and regulatory and safety requirements. This project will deliver a revised framework that will ensure that mandatory training remains current, proportionate, and supports safe, consistent, and equitable practice across all HSC Trusts.
A Regional Task and Finish Group, will be co‑chaired by the Head of Midwifery and Gynaecology Services (WHSCT) and a Midwifery Officer from the Department of Health. Membership will include representation from HSC Trusts, education providers, professional bodies, and relevant stakeholders.
Using a co‑production approach, the Group will meet regularly to guide the review process, support stakeholder engagement, and ensure alignment with professional standards, including the NMC Code, and regional and national maternity safety priorities.
Aim
The aim of this project is to review and agree a regionally consistent set of professional mandatory training requirements for midwives in clinical practice that reflects statutory, regulatory, and service requirements, and provides a robust framework for governance, accountability, and assurance.
Objectives
The project will:
- Define the meaning of ‘core midwifery mandatory training programmes’
- Review the 2015 Professional Mandatory Training Matrix for Midwives
- Map and analyse current mandatory training requirements across all HSC Trusts
- Identify duplication, variation, and gaps in existing provision
- Agree a regionally standardised set of professional mandatory training requirements and training frequency
- Recommend governance, assurance, and monitoring arrangements to support consistent regional implementation
- Submit a final report and recommendations for approval through regional governance structures
Timescales
The project commenced in April 2026 and is scheduled for completion by December 2026.
Contact
The Senior Professional Officer responsible for this project is Fiona Bradley