Government proposes ban on unqualified 'sleep experts' using protected nurse title

The Government is consulting on plans to regulate the title of 'nurse' to prevent unqualified baby sleep experts from misleading families. Under the proposed changes, only those with proper medical qualifications would be permitted to use the protected title, helping parents identify genuine healthcare professionals when seeking support for infant sleep issues. The move addresses growing concerns about unregulated sleep consultants operating in the early years sector, where exhausted parents may be vulnerable to advice from individuals lacking appropriate training. By restricting the use of the nurse title, the Government aims to safeguard infant welfare and ensure families can make informed decisions about who they trust with their child's wellbeing. This regulatory change reflects wider efforts to strengthen standards across early years services and protect children from potentially harmful practices. Local authorities and health partners will need to work together to raise awareness of the distinction between registered nursing professionals and unregulated sleep consultants as these new measures are implemented.