The possibility of action will be debated at the annual meeting of the Royal College of Midwives annual conference in Torquay this week. If ever there was a year to feel dispirited about working in the NHS, surely this one takes some beating Dame Lorna Muirhead, RCM president Midwives say staff shortages mean they are unable to provide the necessary level of care to mothers. Midwives have to feel supported and valued, so that they in turn can support women and children in their care. She called for action to improvements to working conditions and to training and development. Direct action debate Around 800 midwives attending the meeting will debate the motion from the Liverpool RCM branch on taking direct action.
Midwives say the shortage means many have to work double shifts to provide cover.
Health Secretary Alan Milburn will outline the government's plans to improve maternity care in a speech to the conference on Wednesday. There are currently 36,000 working in the health service. Midwives at the conference are also set to call for a comprehensive NHS home birth service for those women who want to have their baby at home. The conference will also debate the increased use of epidural pain-relief injections. More people 'will pay for healthcare' EU steps up war on smoking Polyp work may aid cancer fight Links to more Health stories are at the foot of the page.