New Diploma in Major Incident Management Bridges Gap in Emergency Response Training

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The DipMIM is specifically tailored for individuals involved in the planning and organization of major incident responses beyond their area of professional expertise. It seeks to bridge an assurance and professional development gap between the Major Incident Medical Management and Support (MIMMS) Course and a master's degree program, assessing the candidates comprehensive understanding of major incident preparedness and response, including the statutory, legal, and operational frameworks.

On the introduction of the Diploma RCSEd President Professor Rowan Parks said,

‘As pre-hospital emergency medicine evolves and the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care acknowledges the critical need to enhance the professionalism of major incident response, RCSEd is dedicated to further setting and upholding of the overarching standards of the College and empowering a broad range of multi-professionals within pre-hospital care, to navigate the intricacies of major incident management with confidence.  

Supporting FPHC in leading with this one-of-a-kind exam, will ensure that healthcare and emergency service professionals are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR) field and, together we strengthen the foundations of excellence, setting and upholding standards in emergency healthcare. Through multiple levels of consultation, and as a direct recommendation cited in the Faculty’s response to the Manchester Arena Inquiry, RCSEd welcomes an exam of this magnitude to the Faculty and validates its place within a portfolio of training and development around management of major incidents offered by FPHC. Bringing the exam to fruition has required significant effort from the Faculty and additional teams within the College and I would like to thank all those involved.’

The benefits of obtaining the DipMIM are multifold. Firstly, it offers a recognised academic benchmark for individuals voluntarily or professionally involved in responding to major incidents. With the current global landscape, the demand for qualified incident managers has never been higher. Secondly, it promotes collaboration across professions and specialties by establishing a common and acknowledged knowledge base and ultimately improves the future management of major incidents in the UK.

‘The DipMIM encourages joint working across professions and specialties by establishing a core and recognised level of knowledge," Dr Paul Hunt, Deputy Convener for the Diploma added. "We hope that, in time, this Diploma will become a prerequisite for those undertaking such duties.’

Moreover, the Diploma in Major Incident Management aligns RCSEd with the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care (FPHC), in its position as a leading player in the field, both nationally and internationally. This credential becomes increasingly vital in the current context of heightened terrorist threats and the evolving nature of Emergency Preparedness, Resilience and Response (EPRR).

For individuals considering taking this exam, the benefits are substantial. The DipMIM qualification will recognise the relevant functional knowledge and skills and offer a comprehensive understanding of major incident management, which goes beyond existing courses. Successful completion of the Diploma confirms a candidate's competency and experience at a level consistent with effective leadership in emergency response and readiness.

FPHC Faculty Chair, Dr Pam Hardy commended on the accomplishment, having been in development for many years. She said 'The concept was inspired by many tragic events both in the UK and internationally, with the ultimate catalyst being the Manchester Arena Inquiry. In 2022, I was requested as Chair of the Faculty of Pre-hospital Care to provide a statement to the Inquiry about our role and how we could help to address several of the monitored recommendations. Coinciding with the progress of the Diploma gaining momentum towards completion, I felt it was key to addressing the “care gap” cited in the Inquiry, and the need for close collaboration between agencies and responders at the scene of any future incident.'

She added that 'Professor Ian Greaves was the key driver of the creation of this Diploma, and over a number of years, has gathered a highly credible editorial team. They have worked incredibly hard to advocate the need for this exam as a means to further drive quality improvement, set standards and reinforce the principles of joint working and collaboration.'

In terms of career prospects, the Diploma offers formal credentialing as a subject matter expert in emergency preparedness and response, enhancing employability in agencies focused on incident management. Additionally, it sets a future benchmark for aspiring leaders or senior practitioners in the field of emergency planning.

The DipMIM is intended to be part of a professional development pathway, potentially leading to a Master's (Level 7) qualification through future accreditation and academic partnerships. Successful candidates may also find opportunities to influence shared learning and doctrine, serving as examiners and mentors in the field.

In conclusion, the launch of the Diploma in Major Incident Management represents a significant step forward in professionalising the major incident response. It offers a much-needed qualification that will elevate standards for emergency response management and build resilience, promote collaboration and joint working, and can enhance individual career prospects. As the world faces an evolving landscape of challenges, the DipMIM sets a new standard for preparedness and leadership in major incident management.

The deadline for applications is 1 March 2024.

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