Black Maternal Mental Health Week 2023
About Black Maternal Mental Health Week UK
“Black Maternal Mental Health Week UK is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by Black mothers. Recognised nationally, this initiative aims to promote education, advocacy, and support for Black women during their pregnancy and postpartum journey. By shedding light on the unique mental health disparities experienced by this community, the week-long campaign strives to foster understanding and drive positive change in maternal healthcare practices.”
-themotherhoodgroup.org
As a Black mother, a Perinatal Specialist trained in Birth Trauma, Perinatal Mental Health, and Obstetric Violence, as well as the Training Development Consultant for WRA, I am writing on behalf of White Ribbon Alliance UK to express my profound support for Black Maternal Mental Health Week 2023, spearheaded by The Motherhood Group under your commendable leadership.
The United Kingdom's healthcare system, while advanced in numerous ways, unfortunately lags when it comes to addressing and rectifying the disparities in maternal health outcomes experienced by Black women. It is concerning to note the disproportionate rates of maternal mortality, obstetric violence, and postpartum depression among Black mothers, are a grave indicator of the deeply entrenched systemic barriers and biases present.
The demands for change in Black maternal health in the UK are varied, yet essential:
1. Data Collection and Reporting: There is a dire need for improved and disaggregated data collection to better understand the unique challenges faced by Black mothers.
2. Training and Education: Healthcare professionals must receive evidence-based, non-biased training that prioritises trauma-informed care, ensuring Black mothers receive the compassionate and equitable care they deserve.
3. Policy and Advocacy: The development of comprehensive policies addressing the unique maternal health challenges faced by Black women, including addressing the root causes of health disparities.
4. Support Systems: Enhancement of postpartum support mechanisms, particularly focusing on mental health and well-being for Black mothers.
5. Community Engagement: Empowering Black mothers by involving them in decision-making processes, ensuring that their experiences and perspectives shape the policies and practices that directly affect them.
Your tenacity and relentless commitment, through campaigns and initiatives led by The Motherhood Group, are leading the way in amplifying the often overlooked voices of Black mothers. You have continuously showcased the urgency of diversifying Black maternal mental health care and the importance of tailored, compassionate support.
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to you and the dedicated team at The Motherhood Group for your unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of Black mothers across the UK. Your efforts are not only pivotal in shedding light on a pressing issue but also instrumental in driving change at both the grassroots and policy levels.
In solidarity and with utmost respect,