NMC moves closer to being able to language test EU nurses

The nursing regulator has moved a step closer to introducing new English language checks for nurses and midwives who trained in the European Union.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council will consider responses to its consultation on the checks which closed last week and is to finalise the policy in October.

Nurses and midwives from the European Economic Area who apply to join the register will need to have a knowledge of English that allows them to practise ‘safely and effectively’ in the UK.

The changes are to be laid before parliament and updated legislation is due to be effective in January next year.