Maternity support workers in Wales secure fairer pay deal
After negotiations through the Welsh Partnership Forum, a new pay and banding agreement has been reached for maternity support workers in Wales. The deal recognises that many MSWs already carry out complex clinical tasks and aims to align pay with the level of responsibility carried out on the wards.
What changes
Under the agreement, eligible MSWs currently on Agenda for Change Band 2 will be assessed and re-banded to Band 3 where their duties align with the national Band 3 profile. This re-banding is intended to formally recognise skills and duties that many MSWs are already carrying out.
Back pay and recognition
The deal includes provision for backdated pay and recognition payments for staff who have been performing Band 3 duties before the formal re-banding takes place. That means people who have already been working at the higher level should receive retrospective pay to reflect that contribution.
Timeline and support
Job evaluations will begin in January 2026, with a target to complete re-banding and process back pay by July 2026. The Welsh Government has committed funding to support implementation across NHS Wales, and RCM Cymru has pledged to support members through the assessment process.
Voices from the profession
Julie Richards, director of RCM Cymru, said the agreement is about “fairness and respect” and underlined that if staff are doing more, they should be recognised both in job titles and in pay. The Royal College of Midwives has welcomed the step as an important recognition of the skilled work MSWs provide in maternity services.
What this means for MSWs
For MSWs this represents both recognition and financial redress. If you are an MSW in Wales, check your job description and keep in touch with your union or RCM representative about the job evaluation process and timelines. If you believe you have been carrying out Band 3 duties already, ensure your contribution is recorded so recognition payments and back pay can be considered.
Written in response to reporting from Healthcare Management (25 November 2025).
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