We have published our second annual State of Complaints report. 

The 2024 report provides an overview of the fitness to practise process and covers the period from 1 January to 31 December 2024. Now in its second year, the report includes comparison data for some key information and an expanded review of the nature of the complaints received by NMBI.

As of 31 December 2024, there were 93,043 nurses and midwives registered with NMBI. Of these, 86,948 self-declared that they are practising in the professions.

In 2024, NMBI received 109 complaints about the fitness to practise of a registered nurse or midwife which represents 0.12% of the total number of nurses and midwives on the Register. This compares to 75 complaints in 2023 (an increase of 45%) and 0.09% of the total nurses and midwives on the Register.

Of the 109 complaints, 49 (down 3%) were received from employers, 44 (down 7%) from members of the public and 16 (up 10%) from the Board of NMBI. 

In 2024, the Preliminary Proceedings Committee (PPC) made decisions in relation to 100 complaints. 55 matters were dealt with by undertakings and/or consents and non-prima facie cases at the PPC stage (up 41% on 2023). This represents 0.06% of the total number of nurses and midwives on the Register. 45 matters were referred to the Fitness to Practice Committee (FTPC) for inquiry.

In 2024, 30 inquiries were held by NMBI (down 25%). Of these inquiries, 17% of the registrants were male (down 3%) and 83% were female (up 3%).

Eight sanctions were imposed by the Board in addition to the undertakings in the period covered in the report. This compares to 17 in 2023.

NMBI Chief Executive, Carolyn Donohoe, commented on the report, stating, “This publication offers a clear statistical view of the complaints received by NMBI against nurses and midwives and provides enhanced data into trends in our complaints process. It emphasises our unwavering dedication to robust, independent handling of complaints, prioritising public protection while supporting safe practice among registrants.” 

The report is now available on our website.