Health Inequality Insights
Welcome to the podcast dedicated to exploring the complexities of health inequalities within healthcare.
The podcast aims to spark meaningful conversations among healthcare professionals and beyond, driving progress towards a more equitable future. Listeners are encouraged to build on what they learn from others and to think about implementing change within their own practice to better serve the population they work with.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and to be part of the conversation.
Health Inequality Insights
Lost Mothers: The Hidden Trauma of Separation in Prison
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Episode Description
Dr Su Khant Chei (GP) and Sean Liu welcome Professor Laura Abbott, Professor of Maternal Health and Criminal Justice at the University of Hertfordshire and founder of the Lost Mothers Project.
In this episode, we explore the emotional and psychological impact of separating mothers from their newborn babies while in prison. Laura shares insights from her co-produced research with women who have lived experience of imprisonment, highlighting themes of grief, trauma, stigma, and systemic gaps in care. We also discuss the implications for children, the importance of the first 1001 days, and practical steps clinicians can take to provide compassionate, trauma-informed support.
Key Messages
- Pregnancy and early motherhood in prison is an under-recognised area of vulnerability, and systems are often not designed to meet the needs of women who are affected.
- Women often describe separation from a newborn in custody as a profound, physical and psychological grief, often hidden due to fear of judgement or punitive responses.
- Parental imprisonment and early separation may have long-term implications for attachment and child development, reinforcing the importance of sensitive perinatal care.
- Small, consistent acts of non-judgemental listening and compassion from clinicians can significantly impact women’s experiences and engagement with services.
Resources
Lost Mothers Project website:
https://lostmothers.org
Birth Companions – Resources and training on supporting pregnant women and mothers in the criminal justice system:
https://birthcompanions.org.uk
Clean Break – Creative work with women affected by the criminal justice system:
https://cleanbreak.org.uk
Connect with us
If you would like to get involved, have any questions, comments, or topic suggestions, please email us at nationalheft@gmail.com. You can also connect with us on https://future.nhs.uk/NationalHEFT/groupHome and https://twitter.com/NationalHEFT
Disclaimer
The information provided in this podcast, is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the content should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners are encouraged to consult with their own healthcare providers or seek appropriate medical guidance for any specific health concerns. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily represent the views of their respective institutions or organizations. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, but we cannot guarantee that all content is current, complete, or free from errors. Listeners are encouraged to verify any medical information from trusted sources and consult with their own qualified healthcare professionals. We hope this podcast serves as a valuable resource in promoting awareness and understanding of health inequalities and related topics.