Stillbirths and neonatal deaths
Hackney councillors were told in November 2026 about significant racial disparities in stillbirths and neonatal deaths, with Black women and babies disproportionately affected.
In November 2026, Hackney councillors were presented with national data from MBRRACE-UK, which showed Black women are almost three times more likely than white women to die during pregnancy or in the six weeks after birth. This presentation, given by Professor Marian Knight, highlighted significant racial disparities in maternal outcomes across the UK.
Closer to home, data from Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust for 2025 indicated that Black mothers were over-represented in stillbirths and neonatal deaths, making up 21% and 19% of these cases respectively. The national figures also revealed that 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. 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
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.