NMC commits to improving revalidation experience for disabled nursing and midwifery professionals

In our latest annual 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, we 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.

Findings

Our findings build on insights from our 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 we 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 us 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 us challenges posed by disability and neurodiversity in life and work also impact the revalidation process.

NMC’s response to the research

In their feedback, disabled professionals suggested that we ensure our communication across all points of contact is clear and consistent, and that we proactively support and engage with those who are struggling to revalidate.

Using this insight, we’re committed to help break down the barriers disabled professionals' experience. This includes being more proactive in our support by updating supporting information on our website to make it more accessible. We will also provide clearer and more regular information across our newsletters, emails and social media posts.

Importantly, we 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.

“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.”

Further information:

• Revalidation is the process that all professionals on our register need to follow to maintain their registration with the NMC.
• To support people going through the revalidation process, we’ve asked nurses, midwives, nursing associates and employers to share their revalidation stories.
• We have updated our health and character guidance on our website.
• Any professional who needs help working through revalidation requirements due to personal circumstances can contact our registration team for support.

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