The Five X More Black maternity experiences report: Continuing the conversation

Despite a growing body of research and increasing policy attention, the gap in outcomes between Black and White women shows little sign of closing.

In 2022, we launched the first national survey of its kind, placing Black women’s voices at the centre of the conversation on maternity care. That report revealed a pattern of systemic racism, poor communication and harmful assumptions – experiences that were not merely distressing, but also resulted in long-term harm for some Black women.

Since then, we have seen political promises, institutional reviews and bold statements of intent. But have they led to meaningful change? This latest survey sets out to provide evidence and insight into what has improved, what has not, and where action is still needed.