New dataset available for policy-relevant research into the nursing and midwifery professions
Categories: Datasets, ADR England, ADR Scotland, Office for National Statistics, Health & wellbeing, World of work
25 July 2024
The Nursing and Midwifery Council Register linked to Census 2021 – England and Wales dataset is now available for accredited researchers to apply to access via the Integrated Data Service. This ADR UK flagship dataset enables analysis of the wider dynamics of the nursing and midwifery professions – and what these might mean for entry and retention in the workforce.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is legally mandated to hold a register of everyone meeting the standards required to practise as nurses, nursing associates and midwives across the UK. This includes information about their field, qualifications and characteristics. Meanwhile, Census 2021 is the most comprehensive record of the population of England and Wales held by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Linkage of these de-identified data sources will enable policy-relevant research insights into the social circumstances experienced by people working in these professions.
The dataset is the result of a collaboration between Edinburgh Napier University and the Scottish Centre for Administrative Data Research (part of ADR Scotland), the NMC, and the ONS.
The dataset has been made available through the Integrated Data Service (IDS), which may enable linkages to other data. This marks the first ADR UK flagship dataset that can be accessed in this way. The ONS is leading the delivery of the IDS.
About the data
The de-identified dataset links together data from the NMC register with the Census 2021 for England and Wales.
Data made available from the NMC register includes information on the individual’s length of time on the register, and whether the individual is a qualified practising nurse, nursing associate, or midwife (or whether they are dual qualified). For nurses, information is also included on whether they are registered as an adult’s, children’s, mental health, or learning disability nurse.
Optional data provided includes:
- Professional information: Country of initial training; institution where qualified; pre- and post-registration qualifications
- Geographic information: Place of residence; place of employment
- Personal information: Age; gender; ethnicity; disability; sexual orientation
- Employment information: Scope of practice; work setting; date of leaving the register (2018 – 2021).
Linkage of this data to the Census 2021 for England and Wales enables analysis of the demographic, geographic and social dimensions of the professions. This might include people’s experiences of health, housing and caring responsibilities. The dataset will also allow exploration of how these wider dimensions influence entry and retention within the professions.
Potential of the new dataset
Making this dataset available for public good research unlocks the potential for new insights. Researchers will be able to build understanding of the wider circumstances experienced by nurses, nursing associates and midwives beyond their professional status, as well as the dynamics of these professions.
This could lead to better evidence on the drivers of recruitment, retention and professional progression, informing decisions in policy and practice to improve these measures. Ultimately, there is potential for significant benefits to the UK public, as the research could inform improved support for nursing and midwifery professionals in delivering vital healthcare.
Emma Westcott, Assistant Director of Strategy and Insight at the NMC, said: “We’re committed to using our data and insight to support workforce imperatives in health and social care. That’s why we’re pleased to be collaborating with SCADR to make our data more widely accessible to researchers through the Integrated Data Service. We welcome any feedback on its value to policy and decision making.”
How to access the dataset
Researchers seeking to securely access this dataset must first become accredited researchers under the Digital Economy Act. Researchers should apply for accreditation through the ONS Research Accreditation Service. You can apply to access the specific data required for your project by completing a research project application.
Read more about this project from ADR Scotland.
Read more about this dataset and how to apply for access from the Integrated Data Service.
