“Listening to the lived experience of Black women who have used our maternity services, learning lessons and sharing that learning will undoubtedly help us to improve outcomes.” That’s the message from The Royal College of Midwives (RCM) as they and join The Motherhood Group’s Black Maternal Health Conference in London today (21 March).
The RCM is working with the midwifery community and other organisations to widen the lens in midwifery education and practice to address colonialism in UK maternity services and the often devasting impact that can have on maternity outcomes for Black women and their babies in particular.
Launching its Decolonising Midwifery Education Toolkit in 2023 closely followed by their Decolonising Midwifery Practice recommendations in 2024, the RCM is absolutely committed to supporting its members in tackling the inequalities that currently exist for Black, Asian and minority ethnic women, including those in the midwifery community.
Commenting, the RCM’s Chief Executive, Gill Walton, said:
“It should not be the case in twenty-first century Britain that these inequalities in outcomes exist. The RCM’s is focussed on decolonising both the education and practice of midwives and all maternity staff because we believe, with the right support, we can bring about the positive change we urgently need to see. We are so pleased to support this year’s Black Maternal Health Conference, because we believe listening to the lived experience of women and their families is crucial to tackling existing disparities effectively. It is on all of us within the midwifery community to learn from mistakes, share good practice and support each other as we strive to make improvements together.”
The RCM’s Decolonising Midwifery Practice includes practical recommendations for NHS Trusts and Boards on updating guidelines and ensuring that local policies are inclusive. In particular, this includes providing advice on detecting jaundice and cyanosis in babies with varying skin tones and being responsive to and reflective of different cultures.
Commenting, the founder and Chief Executive of The Motherhood Group, Sandra Igwe, said:
“The Black Maternal Health Conference UK represents a pivotal moment in our ongoing work to transform maternal healthcare outcomes. As founder of The Motherhood Group and organiser of this landmark event, I’ve witnessed firsthand how bringing together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and most importantly, Black mothers themselves, creates powerful pathways for change. This conference isn’t just about discussion – it’s about co-creating community-led solutions that will directly impact the lives of Black mothers and their families. Through authentic partnerships with organisations like the RCM, we are building a future where every Black mother receives the respectful, culturally competent care she deserves.”
The RCM’s Professional Policy Advisor, Janet Fyle, will join a panel discussion at The Motherhood Group’s conference on bridging policy and frontline maternity practice.
The RCM will use this conference as an opportunity to share the toolkits, guidance, and practice recommendations it has produced not only with midwives in attendance, but the wider multidisciplinary maternity team
