New Assistant Director set to improve NMC understanding of nursing and midwifery issues in Scotland and Northern Ireland
Date:15/11/2010
The Nursing and Midwifery Council is reaffirming its commitment to effectively regulate nursing and midwifery care in the devolved countries with the appointment of a new Assistant Director for Scotland and Northern Ireland Affairs.
Assistant Director Cathy Cairns will be starting work in January and has been tasked with improving NMC understanding of the influences that shape health and social care in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Ms Cairns will be based at the new NMC offices in Edinburgh and will travel regularly to Northern Ireland. She will work to develop strong relationships with senior level civil servants, educators, employers and professional bodies and to ensure that NMC policy takes into account the diverse needs of patients and public in both countries.
Ms Cairns will be a familiar face to many having been previously employed at the NMC as their Professional Advisor for Children's Nursing and Child Health from 2006 to 2008. She is currently working as an Associate Nurse Director at NHS Fife. Chief Executive and Registrar Dickon Weir-Hughes said:
"I am delighted that Cathy Cairns has decided to return to the NMC in order to help us get a better insight into the issues affecting nurses, midwives, patients and families in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Her new role represents a significant shift for the NMC, illustrating our commitment to moving away from what has been perceived as a London-focused model to one which is more inclusive of the devolved countries."
Ms Cairns said:
"This is a great opportunity to ensure that different viewpoints and concerns are taken into account when the NMC is formulating policy on important issues, such as revalidation. I'm looking forward to building strong relationships on the ground and improving communication between the NMC and those working, teaching and providing care in Scotland and Northern Ireland."