Black women in England are facing significant disparities and neglect in maternity care, according to Members of Parliament (MPs). The Health and Social Committee’s investigation highlighted that racism is a major factor contributing to these issues. The report also pointed out systemic deficiencies in leadership, training, data management, and accountability.
Recent data reveals that Black women are 2.3 times more likely to experience mortality during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postnatal period compared to White women. The committee emphasized the urgent need to address the longstanding disparities in maternity care, describing the situation as unjust and warning of the substantial human and systemic costs involved.
Acknowledging that the challenges faced by Black women are part of a broader failing maternity system, MPs emphasized the need for better preparation, resources, and accountability in maternal services. The report raised concerns about the significant financial burden on health services, reduced workforce effectiveness, and declining public trust due to these inequities.
The committee also highlighted that the NHS in England has incurred £27.4 billion in maternity negligence costs since 2019, exceeding the total maternity budget for the same period. Paulette Hamilton, acting chair of the committee, stressed the importance of a healthcare workforce that listens to, understands, and respects the needs of Black women for safe maternal care.
Hamilton underscored the necessity for well-equipped and resourced maternal services led by effective and accountable leadership. The report emphasized the current inadequacies in this regard and called for immediate action to address the systemic issues affecting Black women in maternity care. The committee urged collaboration between the Department of Health and Social Care, the NHS, the Royal College of Midwives, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council to implement mandatory cultural competency training for midwives, informed by the experiences of Black women.
Furthermore, a National Maternity and Neonatal Taskforce, chaired by Health Secretary Wes Streeting and comprising experts and bereaved families, has been established to address these critical issues. The investigation is set to conclude in December, aiming to bring about positive changes in maternity care for Black women and achieve greater equity in healthcare services.