Abstract

This is the first in a series of six articles presenting key findings from a national study that was undertaken to investigate the role and responsibilities of midwives and to identify continuing educational needs. The research findings were used to develop an open learning educational package for use by midwives nationally. The study was commissioned by the English National Board for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (ENB) and was carried out between March 1994 and February 1996. The series includes the following articles: (1) Aspects of care provided by midwives part 1 — A general overview, (2) Aspects of care provided by midwives part 2 — ‘Enhanced role’ activities and social and emotional care, (3) The organisation of midwifery care, (4) Perceptions of midwifery care - views of professionals and mothers, (5) Assessing the continuing educational needs of midwives, (6) Addressing the continuing educational needs of midwives.