New workshop tackling Black maternal health inequalities
On Thursday 19 June, South East London Integrated Care Board (ICB), in partnership with Impact on Urban Health, hosted a workshop focused on tackling Black maternal health inequalities.
The event brought together Black mothers and birthing people, community leaders, NHS staff from maternity and neonatal services, and local organisations. The goal was to discuss practical ideas to improve care and reduce health inequalities.
These ideas will be developed further and considered for funding through a participatory process led by the South East London Black Maternal Health Expert Reference Group. This group includes people with lived experience, NHS professionals, and community organisations.
Despite the heat on one of the hottest days of the year, over 60 people attended. The day was co-designed and facilitated by JRNY, Black Mothers Matter, and local artistic facilitator Moi Tu. A trauma-informed approach helped ensure a safe, supportive environment for people to share their experiences.
Speakers included:
- Monica Franklin – South East London Local Maternity & Neonatal System
- Megan Velzian – Southwark Maternity Commission team
- Sarindi Aryasinghe – NHS Race & Health Observatory
Presentations reflected the growing national and local movement to reduce health inequalities for Black and brown mothers, with this project set to play an important role.
The aim is that participants at the workshop will grow into an accountability forum for the project.