Southwark Maternity Commission
Read the Maternity Commission report and recommendations.
Share your experience of maternity care in Southwark
Learn about our review of health inequalities in maternity care in the borough (Southwark’s Maternity Commission), and how to get involved if you’re a resident or health professional.
Why we need the maternity commission
In the UK, Black and Asian women, as well as those living in the most deprived areas, have a higher risk of dying during and up to six weeks after pregnancy than White women. (Statistics taken from a UK report on deaths in mothers: MBRRACE-UK ‘Saving Lives Improving Mothers’ Care 2023’ report)
Southwark is one of the most diverse boroughs in the country. 40% of our population are born outside the UK. This means these inequalities likely affect a high proportion of our residents.
What the Southwark Maternity Commission aims to achieve
Councillor Evelyn Akoto, Southwark Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing formed the commission to:
- capture the lived experience of people giving birth in Southwark
- hold meetings, listening exercises and ways for women and families to share their experiences
- raise community awareness about having a safe pregnancy and birth
- bring about changes in maternity care to help reduce maternity inequalities such as deaths of people giving birth
- provide a message of solidarity to the people of Southwark
Page last updated: 30 September 2024
