Midwifery Student in Scotland Advocates for Free Speech After Pro-Life Views Lead to Controversy

An American midwifery student residing in Scotland is standing firm for her free speech rights following her temporary removal from training with the National Health Service. Her situation arose after she expressed her pro-life views on a Facebook forum.

Sara Spencer, a student at Edinburgh Napier University, faced suspension from her training at NHS Fife hospital. This action was taken after she commented in a private Facebook group concerning a query about midwives’ involvement in abortions and their right to refuse participation based on personal beliefs.

In her response, Spencer asserted that midwives have a legal right to conscientious objection, referencing Scottish law. She articulated her personal conviction against participating in what she termed the killing of an unborn child.

The 30-year-old mother of three explained to Fox News Digital that it is generally known among midwives that they can refuse to perform abortions under current law in Scotland. Alliance Defending Freedom UK (ADF UK), which has taken up her legal defense, claims that the actions taken against Spencer infringe upon the rights of medical professionals regarding free speech and conscientious objection.

Spencer’s comments were met with complaints that led to a meeting with her line manager at NHS Fife. This triggered an investigation by Edinburgh Napier University regarding what they termed conduct detrimental to the profession, raising concerns about her misuse of social media and adherence to the Professional Code governing her field.

NHS Fife issued a statement asserting that student conduct falls under the jurisdiction of their academic institution. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive workplace, where all staff and students are valued and supported in alignment with legal duties.

Their statement clarified that, while Spencer did not face formal suspension, she took a brief leave of absence before resuming her placement at NHS Fife.

Backed by ADF and its legal team, Spencer prepared a defense statement for the university’s fitness-to-practise officer. Subsequently, she received a notice declaring that there would be no further action against her, allowing her to return to her placement.

Spencer’s quest for assurance regarding the rights of conscientious objection and freedom of expression continues. She aims to gain acknowledgment from NHS Fife that medical professionals should not face discrimination for expressing pro-life sentiments in the future.

Feeling uncertainty about her position within the NHS system, Spencer expressed her desire for discussions about safeguards for future students or employees who might express similar beliefs. She articulated her anxiety about potentially facing similar scrutiny again.

An official from Edinburgh Napier University declined to comment on Spencer’s specific situation while emphasizing that all midwifery students must adhere to the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s code of practice.

Despite her return to training, Spencer continues to receive warnings from professors regarding her social media activity. ADF UK reported that her comments about pro-life beliefs have been labeled inappropriate, leaving her anxious about expressing her views.

Miller, a spokesperson for ADF UK, commented on the protection of freedom of conscience for medical professionals in Scotland, emphasizing that they should not be compelled to act against their ethical beliefs.

Moreover, she highlighted the ongoing review of abortion laws by the Scottish Government. A panel is evaluating whether to modify any aspects of existing legislation by 2025, with freedom of conscience being a critical topic under consideration. Miller underscored the necessity of maintaining robust protections for every medical professional’s freedom of conscience.

Spencer’s predicament underlines the concerns about academic freedom. Many pro-life students report feeling marginalized and pressured within academic settings, often struggling to maintain their rights of expression.

Legal counsel Jeremiah Igunnubole from ADF UK noted that cultural biases have negatively affected Spencer’s academic and professional trajectory, pointing to a broader issue where students face repercussions for sharing their thoughts peacefully.

He asserted the need for legislation to safeguard freedom of speech in educational environments to uphold the reputation of Scottish universities.

Recent events reflect the growing tensions surrounding free speech in Scotland, particularly regarding pro-life discussions. For instance, a 74-year-old grandmother was recently arrested for offering conversations to women considering abortion within a so-called buffer zone, highlighting the legal complexities surrounding such expressions.

During a recent visit to the White House, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer faced scrutiny over growing concerns about free speech restrictions in the UK. Vice President J.D. Vance emphasized how these issues ripple through American technology companies and affect citizens across the ocean.

Voices for Change

The case of Sara Spencer illuminates a pivotal moment in the dialogue surrounding free speech for medical professionals and students. As Scotland grapples with issues of conscience and expression, it remains vital to ensure that those who hold differing views, particularly around contentious subjects like abortion, are afforded the same protections as any other belief.

The outcome of Spencer’s case could set an important precedent that impacts not only her future but also the landscape of healthcare education and professional practice in Scotland. As discussions continue, the roles of free speech and personal beliefs in academic environments come to the forefront, urging a re-examination of policies that protect individuals expressing diverse viewpoints.