RecruitingObservational

EQUIBIRTH project: improving choice, informed consent and respect from individuals from ethnic minority communities accessing maternity care

The EQUIBIRTH project is looking into how maternity services can be better for women from ethnic minority groups in the UK. Research shows that some women feel they aren't listened to, lack choices, or face discrimination during pregnancy and birth. This study hopes to understand what works best to make sure all women receive respectful care, understand their options, and give proper consent for their treatment. It involves speaking with women who have used maternity services, as well as healthcare staff and community groups, to find practical ways to improve care for the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

Enrolment target

570

Start

15 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2029

Maternity services

What is this study about?

The EQUIBIRTH project is an important study focused on improving maternity care for women from ethnic minority backgrounds across England and Wales. We know that about one in four women giving birth in these areas are from ethnic minority communities. Unfortunately, many of these women have shared experiences where they felt their voices weren't heard, they had limited choices about their care, or they didn't fully understand and agree to their treatment. Some have even experienced discrimination.

These difficult experiences can have a lasting impact, leading to a lack of trust in healthcare, a fear of future pregnancies, or even long-term health problems. The EQUIBIRTH project wants to get to the bottom of why these issues happen and, more importantly, how we can create change. We aim to identify and develop better ways to ensure all women receive respectful care, are given clear choices, and can provide fully informed consent during their maternity journey, understanding what works best and in what situations.

This project will bring together women who have used maternity services, healthcare professionals, and community leaders. By working together, we hope to find practical solutions that benefit not only the women taking part in the study but also future mothers and their families. Our goal is to make sure maternity care is fair, respectful, and well-understood for everyone.

Key takeaways

Focuses on improving maternity care for ethnic minority women.
Aims to enhance choice, informed consent, and respectful treatment.
Involves women, healthcare staff, and community leaders.
Participation includes discussions, surveys, and workshops.
Study findings will help shape future maternity services.
You can withdraw at any time and support is available.

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to take part in this study if you are 16 years or older and can agree to participate. We are particularly interested in hearing from:

Women who are currently using or have recently used NHS maternity services and identify as Black (including British, African, Caribbean heritage), Asian (including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese heritage), Mixed race, or from another ethnic minority community (like Arab or Kurdish).

Also, we are inviting healthcare professionals who work with women from these communities in maternity care. We're also looking for people in management or leadership roles within healthcare, and representatives from charities or organisations that support ethnic minority communities who access maternity care.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 16 years old or over?
Can you provide your clear agreement to take part?
Do you identify as Black, Asian, Mixed race, or another ethnic minority?
Have you used or are you currently using NHS maternity care?
Or, do you work as a healthcare professional or in a leadership/charity role related to maternity care for these communities?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll be involved in one or more activities. These include joining a focus group (a group discussion), attending a workshop, having a one-on-one interview, or completing short online surveys or questionnaires. In some cases, we might also observe healthcare interactions, but this would only happen if you agree.

Group sessions like focus groups and workshops will be held in community venues in Nottingham. If you need to travel to attend these, up to £10 will be available to help with your travel costs. The study doesn't involve any medical treatments. Your involvement will mostly be through sharing your experiences and thoughts. The total time you spend will depend on which activities you choose to participate in. You can choose to take part in just one activity or several.

Potential risks and benefits

While we hope this study will lead to better maternity care in the future, it's important to know that you might not see the direct benefits yourself, as improvements take time. Your participation will involve some of your time. We'll be discussing sensitive topics related to your care experiences, which might sometimes feel uncomfortable or upsetting. However, you are always in control: you can take a break, choose not to answer a question, or withdraw from the session at any time without needing to give a reason. The Chief Investigator, an experienced health professional, will be available to offer support and can also signpost you to other support services if needed. All information you share will be kept confidential within the study, and group sessions will have a code of conduct to ensure everyone feels safe and respected.

Locations (2)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust - Queen's Medical Centre Campus
Unverified
Nottingham, England
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust - City Campus
Unverified
Nottingham, England

Common questions

What is the main goal of the EQUIBIRTH project?

To understand and improve how ethnic minority women experience choice, informed consent, and respect in UK NHS maternity care.

Who can take part in this study?

Women from ethnic minority backgrounds who have used NHS maternity care, healthcare professionals, managers, and representatives from community organisations.

What will I have to do if I join?

You might participate in activities like group discussions (focus groups), workshops, interviews, or fill out surveys. You can choose which activities you wish to do.

Will I get paid for taking part?

No, but if you attend a focus group or workshop in Nottingham, up to £10 will be available to help cover your travel costs.

What if I feel uncomfortable during a discussion?

You can take a break, choose not to answer, or leave the session at any time. Support will be available from the research team if needed.

How to find out more

Naomi Taylor

naomi.taylor5@nhs.net +44 (0)1159249924 ext 80460 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.