Maternal death rate disparity
Hackney councillors are currently discussing national and local data showing Black women face significantly higher maternal death rates and adverse birth outcomes.
In November 2026, Hackney councillors were presented with new national data indicating that Black women are almost three times more likely than white women to die during pregnancy or in the six weeks following birth. These figures, from MBRRACE-UK, were presented by Professor Marian Knight of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit at the University of Oxford.
Local data from Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust also highlighted disparities, showing Black mothers are over-represented in stillbirths and neonatal deaths. In 2025, 21% of stillbirths and 19% of neonatal deaths at the trust were to Black mothers, while nationally, Black babies are twice as likely to be stillborn.
Key facts
- Black women are almost three times more likely than white women to die during pregnancy or in the six weeks after giving birth, national data presented to Hackney councillors in November 2026 stated. 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, according to figures presented to Hackney councillors in November 2026. Source
- MBRRACE-UK data on maternal deaths was presented to Hackney councillors by Professor Marian Knight in November 2026. 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.