In the UK, significant disparities exist in maternal health outcomes between Black women and birthing people compared to their white counterparts, particularly concerning mental health and access to care.
I just didn’t feel like I was treated with the care and respect that I deserved. I didn’t feel like they listened to my words. Staff dismissed my views, and my pain wasn’t taken seriously.
Sandra, expert by experience
Read more about Sandra
Addressing these disparities requires systemic changes within the healthcare system, including:
By acknowledging and addressing these issues, the UK can work towards providing safer and more equitable maternal mental healthcare for all women and birthing people.
I felt pressure as a Black mum that I’d be judged and not listened to. I was scared my children would be taken away.
Chrissy, expert by experience
Read more about ChrissyThe MMHA is supporting member organisations The Motherhood Group and Centre for Mental Health to better understand and advocate for the mental health needs of Black mothers across the UK.
This research project will elevate Black mothers' voices on barriers to quality mental healthcare and inform a report highlighting systemic gaps, community-led solutions, and driving systemic change toward equitable, culturally competent care.
The Amplifying Maternal Voices (AMV) project spotlights mothers' maternal mental health experiences from seldom-heard communities.
Drawing on insights from MMHA Lived Experience Champions, member organisations, and local contacts, the AMV Toolkit offers creative ideas and practical tools to empower individuals in shaping perinatal mental health care at the local level. The Toolkit explores innovative examples of ongoing efforts to bring about this much-needed change.
Five X More Pdf, 1.4mb
Published: May 2022
A nationwide study of black women's experiences of maternity services in the UK. Both quantitative and qualitative data was gathered from 1340 women and birthing people from around the UK who either identified as Black or of Black mixed heritage and had accessed NHS maternity services whilst pregnant between 2016 and 2021.
Historically, much of the conversation around young motherhood has focused on preventing teenage pregnancies, and as a result, little attention has been paid to the needs of young parents.
There is a gap in consistent professional enquiry and curiosity about domestic abuse. There is also a gap in knowledge about the role of health professionals and their responsibilities regarding domestic abuse, signs of abuse and links to trauma.
Our Listening Project Report tells the story of three women with experience of addiction during pregnancy and the early days of motherhood, and child removal. The report considers what changes are needed to improve care.
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