Background:The College is warning of a ‘midwife exodus’ as it publishes the results of its annual member experiences of work survey. Over half of midwives surveyed said they were considering leaving their job as a midwife with 57% saying they would leave the NHS in the next year.
Of those midwives who either have left or were considering leaving, more than eight out of 10 were concerned about staffing levels and two-thirds were not satisfied with the quality of care they are currently able to deliver.
Alarmingly, the highest level of dissatisfaction among those surveyed came from midwives who had only worked for five years or less in the NHS.
Aim:To improve the experience of preceptorship midwives and improve retention numbers by 50% post year one of qualification, within maternity at Lister
Change ideas: There were many areas of the PDSA that were used. We tried many different ways of trying to engage with the staff to ensure that we were meeting their needs where they were required this included trying virtual sessions, different times of days, meeting in and out of the hospital and offering different support including skills based scenarios. Each time we were able to reflect on these sessions to work out what was the best way of meeting with them. To ensure uptake of the sessions and reducing barriers.
The Impact: The importance of developing and building a strong workforce for the future is of great importance, this will have long lasting legacy as midwives feel capable to staying in their careers longer, have greater job satisfaction and are able to support each other to grow and develop. Having a strong and well supported workforce will then impact the women and their families we provide care.
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