Better Births for Women with Multiple Disadvantages
This study reinforces the policy ambition in England and Wales for all women to have support so they can develop and drive their own birth plans. It confirms that women with complex social factors need additional support and care to participate fully in this process – to have input and make choices.
This qualitative peer research study carried out in north-east London reveals that women with multiple disadvantage often have a deep underlying fear and distrust of services. It is important to value and prioritise offering them support to help them understand the processes affecting their choices and be fully involved in decision-making.
The priority under Better Births to improve postnatal and perinatal mental health care is particularly critical to improving outcomes for women with multiple disadvantages. They are more likely to have existing mental ill-health and experience perinatal anxiety and depression but are less likely to access or be offered support.
Evidence shows that women from BAME backgrounds are more likely to experience poorer outcomes and experiences of care. This report gives voice to women from BAME backgrounds, and their experience needs to be heard and addressed.
We make a number of recommendations for action:
- Map needs and develop structures to meet them
- Upskill the workforce
- Meet the particular needs of families at risk of separation
- Take further opportunities to develop this work.
It is clear that when compassionate, skilled midwives effectively identify women’s support needs and make swift referrals to the appropriate services, women and their babies experience much better outcomes. We hope that in response to this report’s findings, more women with multiple disadvantage and their babies will benefit from the best possible care.
