The NMC has launched a consultation to decide allowing members to pay their annual registration fees in instalments.
Currently, the £100 fee can only be paid in a single instalment. The NMC wants to change legislation, to allow a system of phased payments to be set up.
The consultation into paying by instalment comes as nurses and midwives wait to hear whether the NMC will go ahead with its proposed fee rise to £120 per year. The decision sparked anger in nursing unions, with the RCM calling the decision ‘ill-judged.' Dr Peter Carter, chief executive of the RCN, called the proposed fee increase ‘outrageous.'
Jackie Smith, chief executive and registrar of the NMC, said: ‘We are determined to introduce the ability to pay the registration fee in instalments as soon as we can, making it easier and less burdensome for nurses and midwives. A fully functioning system of paying registration fees in instalments, for all nurses and midwives, will be in place from 2016.'
The consultation will last from 11 August to 3 October 2014, and is open to all members of the NMC. To participate in the consultation, go to: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/BWGMBGG
The NMC council will decide whether or not to increase the fees at a council meeting in October.