NMC pilot speeds up FtP decisions for registrants with complex needs 

A Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) scheme aimed at supporting registrants with complex physical or mental health needs has cut case times and improved registrant’s experience of fitness to practise (FtP) referrals, according to the regulator.

The Health Pilot, launched in January 2025, created a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of clinical and safeguarding specialists to identify registrant health concerns at the start of an FtP investigation. The NMC says this early intervention is helping ensure investigations are proportionate and better tailored to individual needs.

According to the regulator, the pilot’s MDT Case Clinic has reviewed more than 100 cases so far. Initial analysis indicates that investigations handled through the clinic are concluding around eight months faster on average than comparable cases.

Cases reviewed under the pilot have involved a range of complex needs, from mental health conditions to long-term neurological conditions.

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As part of the pilot, the MDT has been advising on appropriate levels of investigation and ensuring information requests remain proportionate.

It has also helped shape how registrants are contacted, introducing tailored communication adjustments designed to protect their wellbeing throughout the process.

The NMC says the pilot is already strengthening early case planning and improving confidence among registrants and representatives.

Over the coming months, the regulator plans to expand the model, develop further resources and training, and share learning across FtP teams to make the system more compassionate and person-centred.

Paul Johnson, deputy director of professional regulation, said: ‘We know the fitness to practise process can be even more challenging to engage with for registrants with complex needs.

‘We are addressing this through targeted work focused on making our processes more compassionate.’

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Mr Johnson noted there was still a ‘long way to go’ on ensuring all registrant’s needs are met in the FtP process.

‘It’s encouraging that early data from our Health Pilot has been positive. Continuing to better understand people’s needs will be key to making FtP a faster and more supportive experience, particularly at the investigation stage,’ he added.

Last week, the NMC announced it will proceed with a consultation on proposed changes to student nursing education standards after being given the greenlight by its governing council.

The regulator will also soon consult unions and a group of senior Black, Asian and minority ethnic nurses and midwives on how it can remove ethnic and gender bias from its fitness to practise (FtP) process.

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In October, the NMC launched a new pilot to bring the introduction of ‘more individualised’ and ‘empathetic’ communication and support given to nurses referred to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

The ‘First Contact’ pilot will see registrants given an initial email that does not reference FtP but lets them know that the NMC has correspondence to share and would like to discuss it with them first.