We have recently updated our website to provide information for employers facilitating the professional competence scheme (PCS).  

Part 11 of the Nurses and Midwives Act 2011, when enacted, will align the Professional Competence Scheme to the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Midwives and will be one of several tools that underpin, guide and support your professional practice.   

The new sections include information about the legislation, the key benefits to employers who facilitate practitioners and the key components of employer facilitation, such as the learning opportunities and supportive environments. 

The PCS is a formal mechanism to enhance public protection by ensuring nurses and midwives retain their ability to practice safely and effectively throughout their professional careers. This guidance is currently being piloted across 37 sites throughout 2025. Over the coming weeks, we will be engaging, collaborating, and working closely with employers at these pilot sites to refine a final version of the guidance.  

We will also be working at a national level to support all employers in meeting their legal responsibilities to facilitate nurses and midwives in maintaining their professional competence.  

Any feedback or information provided by employers during this period will be carefully considered and used to shape and finalise the Employer Facilitation Framework guidance.  

You can find further information on our website.