THE government announced today the creation of 1,000 new roles for recently qualified midwives by the end of 2026, after a successful campaign from the Royal College of Midwives.

The RCM had asked the government find a long-term solution to the “graduate midwifery job crisis” after data revealed one in three of those who recently qualified had not secured a job.

The department announced a £10 million package for trusts in England, turning 1,000 vacant posts to jobs for newly qualified midwives with a £10,000 funding boost per role.

RCM director of midwifery Fiona Gibb said: “We’re pleased that graduate midwives will get the opportunity they deserve to start their careers and join the workforce.

“Bringing newly qualified midwives into the workforce is a win for safe care, as they will help strengthen the workforce and our ability to improve care for women and babies.”