Systemic racism
Hackney councillors were informed in November 2026 about national and local data showing Black women and babies face disproportionate risks in maternal and neonatal health.
In November 2026, Hackney councillors received national data indicating Black women are almost three times more likely than white women to die during or after pregnancy. This information, from MBRRACE-UK, was presented by Professor Marian Knight. Local data from Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust also showed Black mothers are over-represented in stillbirths and neonatal deaths.
In 2025, 21% of stillbirths and 19% of neonatal deaths at Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust were to Black mothers. Nationally, Black babies are twice as likely to be stillborn. Systemic racism is understood as racism embedded within societal structures, leading to discriminatory outcomes and disproportionately affecting Black and Global Majority residents.
Key facts
- In November 2026, Hackney councillors were informed that Black women are almost three times more likely than white women to die during or after pregnancy. Source
- Data from Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust showed Black mothers are over-represented in stillbirths and neonatal deaths. Source
- In 2025, 21% of stillbirths and 19% of neonatal deaths at Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust were to Black mothers. Source
- Nationally, Black babies are twice as likely to be stillborn. Source
- The data on maternal deaths was presented to Hackney councillors by Professor Marian Knight of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 13 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.