This guide provides an overview of the professional care standards and practices of the Royal College of Midwives (RCM). It covers topics such as the RCM's Code of Professional Conduct, the role of midwives in providing quality care, and the importance of continuing
The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is a British midwives organisation founded in 1881 by Louisa Hubbard and Zepherina Smith. It has existed under its present name since 1947 and is the United Kingdom's only trade union or professional organisation for midwives and those that support them. The organisation is a professional association and a trade union that provides guidance and support for midwives both socially and professionally. The RCM is the only midwifery organisation in the United Kingdom run by and for midwives. Gill Walton is the current chief executive, and Sophie Russell is the current president. As of April 2025, the organisation currently has over 50,000 members and is the largest maternity entity in the world.