Although prenatal care and monitoring in the UK has improved with the widespread introduction of ultrasound and increased knowledge around necessary nutrients, there are still particular groups of women who do not receive the care they need. Lifestyle and environmental factors have a huge effect on the health and wellbeing of women during pregnancy and vulnerable and disadvantaged women are particularly at risk of birth complications and the development of mental health issues after birth.

We aim to invest in vital research to help pregnant women by funding several projects to support vulnerable and disadvantaged women, such as midwife Joanne Cull’s study into how maternity services can support the 250,000 pregnant women in the UK each year who have experienced trauma such as domestic abuse, childhood trauma, or sexual assault. The findings could help these women receive more tailored support, improve clinical and wellbeing outcomes and result in financial benefits for the NHS.