Sandra’s a Game Changer for championing Black mums

Sandra is the founder of The Motherhood Group, a project supported by funding made possible by National Lottery players, that bridges the gap between the Black community and the health system. It was set up as a result of her experiences of postnatal depression, anxiety and racism in healthcare.

After a traumatic experience giving birth to her first daughter, Sandra realised the profound gaps in support available for Black women when they had children. She found herself in a healthcare system that neither understood nor respected the unique challenges faced by Black mothers who are 13 per cent more likely to experience postnatal depression than any other race.

Fuelled by frustration and a deep desire for change, Sandra launched The Motherhood Group in 2016 to provide urgently needed resources, support, and safe spaces.

As well as delivering training to approximately 1,400 healthcare practitioners on crucial aspects of Black maternal health, the project also hosts the largest annual conference in the field – the Black Maternal Health Conference UK.

Sandra’s work helping Black mothers has seen her selected as a National Lottery Game Changer – people who have done extraordinary things over the past 30 years with the help of National Lottery funding.

A total of 30 Game Changers will be announced over the coming months as part of The National Lottery’s 30th birthday celebrations. Thanks to National Lottery players, more than £30MMillion is raised every week for good causes across the UK.

Sandra said, “For years, Black women have felt invisible and silenced, especially in maternity care. With support from the National Lottery, my mission is to amplify Black voices, ensure we are seen and heard, and advocate for the changes we desperately need. It’s about turning pain into purpose and creating a platform where Black mothers can thrive, be empowered, and demand the respect and care they deserve.”

24th October 2024