MIDWIVES’ union leaders expressed disbelief today that 63 newly qualified midwives in Wales remain without NHS jobs, despite the “desperate need” for maternity staff.

Royal College of Midwives Cymru (RCM) said it has continually warned the Welsh government about the “desperate need” for maternity staff.

RCM Cymru director Julie Richards said: “We are in disbelief that we still have 63 newly qualified midwives ready to work, but with no jobs to go to.

“Our members are telling us about a birth centre suspended, community midwives being called in to keep services safe, specialist midwives pulled from clinical roles to cover gaps and high sickness levels linked to stress.

“It doesn’t add up.”

The union said that Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) had called the position “particularly challenging” and warned that only a handful of further roles are expected this autumn.

Evidence gathered from RCM members has highlighted concerns about staffing across Welsh maternity services, while national reviews have also called for action to ensure services have enough staff to provide safe care.

RCM Cymru has consistently warned that safe staffing must be treated as a safety issue.

Since June, RCM Cymru has pressed for action at every level, including meeting with Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care Mabon ap Gwynfor.

“We’re not going to stop making the case for these newly qualified midwives,” Ms Richards said.

“Ultimately, these midwives need jobs and maternity services in Wales need their skills. We won’t give up until we have the solution.”

A Welsh government spokesperson said: “We know how disappointing this situation is for this year’s graduates who have worked hard to qualify and want to begin their careers.

“While progress has been made in reducing the gap between available nursing roles and graduates seeking employment, we know that a number of midwifery graduates remain without a suitable post.

“We have asked HEIW to co-ordinate a national support offer, including a single point of access, so graduates remain supported and connected to emerging job opportunities.

“The Cabinet Minister has asked NHS Wales organisations to set out the actions they are taking to improve the position, and we continue to closely monitor progress as this work continues.”