NHS midwives stage protest in Manchester City Centre
They are calling for more staff in the service
Last updated 20th Nov 2022
Midwives have staged a protest in Manchester today (Sunday 20 November) in hope of drawing attention to what they say are "major issues" in the service.
It took place in St. Peter's square and was one of many similar protests across the UK today.
The 'March with Midwives Manchester' called for more staff and better working conditions to help improve the safety for both staff and patients.
One of the organisers, Sarah Davies, who retired after being a midwife for 41 years, said: "Midwives are leaving in droves. It is an emergency.
"The biggest thing for me is seeing women who have got such a passion for what they do being exploited."
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) estimates that the UK is short of over 3,500 midwives.
A recent survey from the RCM showed that 60% of staff are considering leaving the profession, citing inadequate staffing levels and concern for the quality and safety of care.
Rebecca Long-Bailey, MP for Salford, also attended the protest and said: "Over 10 years of cuts to this area of practice now means that patient safety is a real issue.
"There are so many burnt-out midwives and support workers that are struggling to carry on."
It was announced today that the health secretary Steve Barclay is currently in discussions with union bosses over nurses pay.