The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is the independent regulator for nurses, midwives, and nursing associates across the UK. As of March 2023, over 780,000 professionals are on the NMC’s permanent register, underscoring the vital role the regulator plays in promoting high standards to protect the public and maintain trust in these professions.
The NMC’s mission is to ensure “safe, effective, and kind nursing and midwifery practice that improves everyone’s health and wellbeing”. It achieves this by setting professional standards, overseeing education and training, and investigating concerns regarding an individual’s fitness to practise. Where necessary, the NMC takes action against those whose conduct may compromise patient safety or public trust.
Why Choose Regulation Resolution for NMC Proceedings?
We help nurses, midwives, and nursing associates navigate NMC investigations and hearings with expert legal advice and representation. Our team understands the stress and impact these proceedings can have on your career, finances, and personal life. With a strategic and compassionate approach, we provide the support needed to protect your profession and reputation during this challenging process.
Experience You Can Trust
Jonathan Meadows, founder of Regulation Resolution, has represented hundreds of nurses and midwives in complex cases, including high-profile matters like the Mid-Staffs inquiry and Operation Jasmine. His extensive experience allows him to tackle serious allegations, misconduct, and systemic healthcare issues with a proactive, evidence-based approach. By collaborating with expert barristers, he ensures the strongest representation for clients facing NMC investigations or hearings.
How We Can Assist
We provide expert legal support at every stage of the NMC proceedings, including:
- Advising during NMC investigations
- Preparing responses to formal allegations
- Attending NHS Trust or employer meetings
- Representing you at Interim Orders Hearings
- Representation at fitness to practise hearings
- Supporting you through inquest proceedings
What to Expect from an NMC Referral
Initial Screening
The NMC only investigates serious concerns that may require regulatory action to protect public safety or uphold confidence in the profession. These concerns typically involve:
- Misconduct
- Lack of competence
- Health issues that pose risks to patients
- Criminal convictions or police cautions
- Decisions by other regulatory bodies
- Inadequate English language skills affecting safe practice
Upon receiving a complaint, the NMC conducts a screening process to determine whether an investigation is necessary. If the case progresses, it will be passed to the investigations team, and you will be invited to respond to the concerns. Seeking legal advice at this stage is crucial, as early, well-crafted responses can often result in quicker resolutions.
Interim Orders
During an investigation, the NMC may refer your case to an Interim Orders Panel to decide whether temporary conditions or suspension on your practice are necessary. These measures are designed to protect public safety and are not a finding of fault or guilt.
Interim orders can include:
- Conditions of practice (e.g., working under supervision)
- Suspension orders (up to 18 months)
We ensure you are represented effectively at these critical early stages to achieve the best possible outcome.
Investigation and Case Examiners
The NMC gathers evidence for its investigation, including witness statements, patient records, and expert reports. Once the investigation is complete, the case is reviewed by case examiners, who will determine whether there is a case to answer.
Outcomes at this stage can include:
- No case to answer (closure, with or without advice)
- Warnings (publicly recorded for 12 months)
- Undertakings (conditions that allow continued practice)
- Referral to a Fitness to Practise Committee for a hearing
NMC Fitness to Practise Committee Hearings
Fitness to Practise hearings are held when allegations are serious enough to require formal consideration. The panel, consisting of professionals and lay members, reviews the evidence to determine:
- Whether the facts are proven
- If proven, whether your fitness to practise is impaired
- If impairment is found, what sanctions are appropriate
Sanctions may include:
- Caution orders (lasting 1–5 years)
- Conditions of practice (e.g., supervision, retraining)
- Suspension orders (up to 12 months)
- Striking off (removal from the register)
In some cases, a consensual panel determination can resolve the matter without a formal hearing, offering a quicker and less stressful resolution.
Our Expertise in Professional Discipline
We have vast experience defending healthcare professionals, including nurses, midwives, and nursing associates, in cases involving:
- Clinical incidents and errors
- Allegations of dishonesty or misconduct
- Substance misuse or mental health issues affecting practice
Our meticulous preparation and unwavering support have earned us a reputation for achieving excellent outcomes for our clients.
Cost-Effective Representation
We recognise the financial pressures faced by healthcare professionals, which is why we offer:
- Transparent hourly rates
- Agreed fee arrangements to cap costs and offer peace of mind
- Collaboration with insurance providers and defence organisations
At Regulation Resolution, our goal is to protect your professional future by offering efficient, expert legal support.
Contact Us for Expert NMC Defence
If you are under investigation or facing NMC proceedings, contact our specialist team at Regulation Resolution for a confidential, no-obligation discussion. With our experience and proactive approach, we can help protect your career and reputation. Let us guide you through this challenging process.