We invite you to join us for our second protest outside the NMC offices in Portland Square this week Friday August 2nd, 2024 from 1pm till 5pm
In our ongoing fight for justice and equality, we must unite our voices to demand change.
Today, we call for the immediate removal of Sir David Warren as Chair of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). His leadership has been marred by persistent issues of racism, discrimination, and harmful practices that have severely impacted the wellbeing of staff and the integrity of the organization. It’s time for a change, and we need your support to make it happen.
Why Sir David Warren Must Go
Sir David Warren has made it clear he has no intention of stepping down, despite clear evidence of systemic issues under his leadership.
The Independent Culture Review of the NMC has uncovered disturbing findings:
Prevalence of Racism: Over 40% of staff have witnessed or experienced micro-aggressions in the past year. Ethnic minority staff have recounted sitting on recruitment panels where colleagues expressed blatantly racist views towards candidates. One staff member recalled a colleague saying, “Look at the rubbish we’ve got today,” while reviewing applications with foreign-sounding names.
Discrimination in Recruitment: The review found that BME (Black and Minority Ethnic) applicants face systemic bias, severely limiting their career progression. Some panel members openly admitted their bias against promoting minorities, leading to a significant underrepresentation of BME individuals in higher positions.
Bullying and Harassment: Reports of bullying and harassment are rampant, with many staff members experiencing or witnessing these behaviors. The organisation’s response has been inadequate, often failing to support the victims and instead promoting a culture of fear and silence.
Mental Health Impact: The toxic work environment has led to significant mental health issues among staff, including stress, anxiety, and depression. The review highlighted cases of staff taking antidepressants, losing hair, and being unable to sleep due to the hostile workplace culture.
Inadequate Support for Serious Cases: The Fitness to Practise process is notably slow, with some cases dragging on for nearly ten years. This inefficiency has had a devastating impact on the mental health of those involved, with some nurses taking their lives during the investigation process. There have been six suicides in the last year alone among registrants going through the Fitness to Practise process, highlighting the critical need for reform.
The recent resignation of Dawn Brodrick, who was set to become the interim chief executive and registrar, underscores the issues within the NMC. Brodrick stepped down following widespread criticism of her involvement in a high-profile NHS race discrimination case.
Her appointment and quick resignation raise serious concerns about the fairness and transparency of the NMC’s hiring processes.
Our Demand for Change
We demand the immediate removal of Sir David Warren as Chair of the NMC to:
End the perpetuation of a toxic and discriminatory culture.
Ensure accountability for the failings under his leadership.
Restore trust and confidence in the NMC.
Promote a healthier, more inclusive environment for all NMC staff and registrants.
Join Us for the Second Protest
We invite you to join us for our second protest outside the NMC offices in Portland Square this week Friday August 2nd, 2024.
This is our chance to stand together and demand accountability.
Let’s show that we will not be silenced and that we are united in our pursuit of justice and equality.
Good work sisters and brothers.
Courage Calls to Courage Everywhere.
See you Fri.