If a social media post has been reported to the NMC, do not panic and do not rush to respond. The NMC's social media guidance, underpinned by the Code, covers both professional and private use of platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. The NMC screens each concern to decide whether there is a current risk to the public or to public confidence. Keep a record of the post, take advice, and start reflecting.
Key takeaways
- The NMC's social media guidance covers private as well as professional accounts, including WhatsApp.
- The NMC asks whether the post suggests a risk to the public or could undermine trust in the profession.
- Keep a copy of what was posted and take advice before deleting, replying or posting about it.
- Insight into why the post mattered, and evidence of change, is what helps most.
Finding out that something you posted has been reported to your regulator is a horrible feeling, especially if it was meant for friends or posted in a moment of frustration. This article explains how the NMC approaches social media concerns and what to do now. It is general information, not legal advice.
Does the NMC's social media guidance cover my private accounts?
Yes. The NMC's guidance on using social media responsibly is underpinned by the Code. It covers existing and emerging social media applications, tools and platforms, including but not limited to WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok and Facebook, and it covers both professional and private personal use by people on the NMC register.
The NMC says the guidance is not intended to cover every situation. Instead, it sets out broad principles to help you think issues through and act professionally, ensuring public protection, confidentiality and privacy at all times.
What kinds of posts lead to NMC concerns?
The guidance itself focuses on principles rather than a list of banned posts. Given its focus on public protection, confidentiality and privacy, posts that could identify patients or intrude on their privacy are an obvious risk area. Posts that are discriminatory, or that could undermine public trust in nursing and midwifery, can also raise concerns, as the NMC's wider guidance shows.
The NMC's guidance on criminal offending gives one example of how seriously online conduct can be taken: a referral about a professional sharing explicit posts in online forums about sexually assaulting women. The police took no further action because no crime had been committed, but the NMC said it was very likely to investigate, because the posts suggested a dangerous and potentially discriminatory view that could pose a risk to the public and undermine trust. Most social media referrals are nothing like that, but the example shows that no police action does not mean no regulatory interest.
What does the NMC look at when a post is reported?
Like any concern, a social media referral is screened first. The NMC asks whether there is evidence of a serious concern that could need regulatory action to protect the public, and whether there is clear evidence that you are currently fit to practise. For conduct outside professional practice, its guidance says it considers whether the behaviour indicates deep-rooted attitudinal issues that could pose a risk to people in your care or colleagues, or could undermine public trust and confidence in the profession. Each case is considered on its facts.
In 2024-25, 72% of the NMC's screening decisions were to close the case.
Should I delete the post?
Pause before you do anything. Practical steps that protect you:
- Take a screenshot or copy of the post, with the date, the platform, the audience and any comments, before anything changes.
- Take advice before deleting it. Removing a post that breaches confidentiality may be the right thing to do, but how and when you do it should be recorded and explained, so it is not later seen as hiding it.
- Do not reply to the person who reported you, or comment publicly about the referral.
- Do not discuss the case in group chats, including WhatsApp groups with colleagues.
- Review your privacy settings and what else is visible on your profiles.
What helps if a post has been reported?
Insight is central. That means showing you understand why the post mattered: who could have seen it, how it could have affected a patient, a colleague or public trust, and which principles of the Code and the social media guidance it engaged. It is not enough to say it was meant to be private.
- Read the NMC's social media guidance in full and reflect on it in writing.
- Complete relevant learning, for example on professionalism, confidentiality or equality, depending on the concern.
- Write a reflective piece in your own words, not generated by AI.
- Gather testimonials from people who know your practice and values.
The reflection builder helps you structure your reflective piece, and how to demonstrate insight explains what panels look for. The NMC Code of Conduct course is a good place to reconnect your reflection with the Code.
What should I do now?
- Contact your union or professional indemnity provider.
- Check the dates in the NMC's letter, and do not rush your response.
- Keep your copy of the post and a short note of the context.
- Tell your employer about the referral if they do not already know, after taking advice.
When should I get legal advice?
Before you respond to the NMC. Contact the RCN, RCM, Unison or Unite if you are a member, or your indemnity provider. If you are not in a union, the NMC encourages you to seek advice from a regulated legal professional with experience in regulation, such as a regulatory solicitor. Read the Code explained for a plain guide to the standards involved.
If you are feeling exposed or ashamed, you are not alone. The NMC's Careline offers free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, on 0800 587 7396, from a provider independent of the NMC.
Frequently asked questions
The NMC's social media guidance covers both professional and private personal use of platforms, including WhatsApp and Facebook. If private messages are reported, the NMC screens them like any other concern.
Not automatically. The NMC looks at the content, context and any risk to the public or public confidence. Many concerns are closed at screening; in 2024-25, 72% of screening decisions were to close the case.
Take advice first. A public statement can create new problems and may be read as part of the case. A considered apology or reflection is usually better made through your response to the NMC, with support.
Take advice on your specific situation. The NMC considers whether conduct suggests a current risk or could undermine trust, so context, timing and what has changed since will all be relevant.
