Midwifery plays a critical role in the NHS, and the step up to a Band 6 position marks a significant milestone in a midwife’s career. Band 6 midwives hold more responsibility, clinical autonomy, and leadership expectations than their Band 5 counterparts. They are often responsible for coordinating maternity care, supervising junior staff, making complex decisions, and ensuring the highest standards of safety and patient experience. In 2024, the average Band 6 NHS midwife earns between £35,392 and £42,618 annually, depending on experience and location.
Whether you’re applying for a hospital-based midwifery role or community-based care, interview preparation is key. Below, you’ll find 20 commonly asked NHS Band 6 Midwife interview questions, along with expertly crafted answers to help you shine.
Top 20 NHS Band 6 Midwife Interview Questions and Model Answers
Why do you want to become a Band 6 Midwife?
Answer: I am passionate about progressing into a Band 6 role as it allows me to take on greater clinical responsibility, support junior colleagues, and actively contribute to improving service delivery. I thrive in leadership and feel ready to contribute more strategically to patient care and team development.
How do you prioritise your workload in a busy shift?
Answer: I use clinical urgency as the primary determinant, supported by effective communication and time management. I always maintain a dynamic assessment of the situation and delegate where appropriate to ensure patient safety and efficient service delivery.
Describe a time you managed an emergency situation in maternity care.
Answer: I managed a case of shoulder dystocia during delivery. I stayed calm, initiated the HELPERR manoeuvres, called for senior help, and communicated clearly with the woman and team. The baby was delivered safely, and we debriefed afterwards as a team to reflect and improve.
How would you support a newly qualified midwife on shift?
Answer: I would ensure they feel welcomed, provide close mentorship during their shift, offer opportunities to reflect on practice, and encourage confidence while maintaining patient safety. I believe Band 6 midwives must be role models and approachable leaders.
Tell us about your experience with safeguarding.
Answer: I’ve identified safeguarding concerns such as domestic abuse and substance misuse. I’ve followed local safeguarding pathways, completed risk assessments, and liaised with social services while keeping clear, accurate documentation. I always prioritise the woman and baby’s safety.
What strategies do you use to maintain compassion during stressful times?
Answer: I practice mindfulness techniques, ensure regular breaks when possible, and always remind myself of the importance of woman-centred care. Compassion under pressure is sustained by self-awareness and team support.
How do you manage conflict within a team?
Answer: I address conflict early with open, respectful communication. I listen to all perspectives, aim for a resolution aligned with patient care goals, and escalate only when necessary. Team harmony is essential for safe and effective maternity care.
What is your experience with clinical governance?
Answer: I actively contribute to clinical audits, reflect on incidents, and attend regular MDT meetings. I understand the importance of learning from near misses to promote continuous quality improvement.
Describe how you handle a situation where you disagree with a senior colleague’s clinical decision.
Answer: I would respectfully raise my concerns, citing evidence-based practice or trust guidelines. If necessary, I would escalate the issue through appropriate channels, always maintaining professionalism and prioritising patient safety.
How do you ensure continuity of care in the community setting?
Answer: I build strong relationships with women during the antenatal period and follow them through to postnatal care when possible. I maintain clear records, communicate effectively with GPs and health visitors, and adjust care plans based on individual needs.
Describe a time you improved patient care in your department.
Answer: I noticed inconsistencies in postnatal pain management and led a small project to standardise protocols. I worked with the pharmacy team, updated staff training, and improved documentation. Patient feedback and outcomes significantly improved.
How do you keep your knowledge and skills up to date?
Answer: I attend mandatory training, study national guidelines (like NICE and RCOG), and subscribe to journals such as the British Journal of Midwifery. I also take part in reflective practice and learning from case reviews.
What would you do if a woman refused care you believed was necessary?
Answer: I would respect her autonomy, provide balanced, evidence-based information, and document the discussion clearly. I’d explore her reasons, offer reassurance, and ensure she understands any associated risks.
Tell us how you promote equality, diversity and inclusion in your role.
Answer: I treat every woman and family as individuals, respecting cultural differences and communication needs. I advocate for fair access to services and challenge any discriminatory behaviour or policies.
Describe how you manage documentation under pressure.
Answer: I document contemporaneously whenever possible, using structured formats like SBAR. If I must delay documentation, I make brief time-stamped notes and complete records as soon as safe to do so, ensuring accuracy.
How do you approach patient feedback or complaints?
Answer: I welcome feedback as a chance to improve. If a complaint arises, I listen without defensiveness, apologise where appropriate, and seek resolution. I also reflect on what changes can prevent recurrence.
What’s your understanding of the Midwifery Continuity of Carer model?
Answer: It’s a model where women receive care from the same midwife or small team throughout pregnancy, birth, and postnatal period. Evidence shows it improves outcomes and satisfaction. I fully support this model and am excited to implement it where possible.
How would you support a woman experiencing perinatal mental health issues?
Answer: I’d create a safe, non-judgmental space, complete a thorough mental health assessment, involve specialist teams where needed, and provide continuous emotional support, all while promoting mother-infant bonding.
What are the key qualities of a Band 6 midwife?
Answer: Leadership, clinical competence, decision-making, empathy, resilience, and effective communication. A Band 6 midwife should also inspire trust and be committed to lifelong learning and team collaboration.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Answer: I aim to progress to a Band 7 role, possibly as a specialist midwife in public health or intrapartum care. I’m committed to contributing to service improvement, leading change, and mentoring future midwives.
Final Thoughts: Interview Success Tips for Midwives
Preparing for your NHS Band 6 Midwife interview means more than memorising answers. Here are a few final tips:
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when answering competency-based questions.
Research the NHS Trust’s values and align your responses with them.
Be honest about your experiences but highlight growth, learning, and outcomes.
Show enthusiasm for the Band 6 role – not just in career progression, but in leadership, patient care, and mentoring.
Practice mock interviews with a friend or mentor to boost confidence and fluency.
Remember: You’ve already proven your dedication as a midwife. Now’s your chance to step up and show your readiness for leadership. You’ve got this!
