Lost mothers - how women and professionals involved with the criminal justice system experience enforced separation of newborn babies
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Hertfordshire
Department Name: School of Health and Social Work
Abstract
ABOUT THE PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR (PI)
The PI was awarded a one-year, full time Mildred Blaxter Post-Doctoral Fellowship from The Foundation for the Sociology of Health and Illness in 2020. The first opportunity to undertake research was as a mature doctoral student with the project: An ethnographic study into the experiences of pregnant women in English prisons. This was successfully awarded in 2018. This research had several impacts through media, presentations, publications and a change in prison policy.
BACKGROUND
In the UK, it is estimated that 6-7% of the female prison population are at varying stages of pregnancy and approximately 100 babies are born to incarcerated women each year. There are no exact data of the numbers of newborn babies removed from their mother at or soon after birth. There are six Mother and Baby Units (MBUs) in the 12 women's prisons in the UK, currently, all underutilised. Accounts from research of women being separated from their new-born babies demonstrate a deep sense of loss, yet surprisingly little research has examined experiences of the professionals and processes involved in separating mothers from their babies.
THE LOST MOTHERS PROJECT
This project will comprise qualitative semi-structured interviews of the key professionals involved with pregnant women who have Criminal Justice System (CJS) involvement. Women who have been or who are in the process of being separated from their babies will be offered an in-depth face-to-face interview. The charity, Birth Companions and their Lived Experience Team will act as consultants to the project helping with recruitment, introductions, advising on participatory information, interview questions and consent forms. Non-participant observation of the processes involved will take place.
PILOT STUDY
This proposal has been informed by a pilot study of the views of one group of actors (birth supporters) attending women who were being separated from their babies. This was undertaken by the PI during the Post-Doctoral Fellowship, in preparation for this proposal. Birth supporters suggested that the approach to mothers being separated from their newborn babies' cause women to face: "a huge amount of criticism, blame, judgement and a real lack of empathy."
HOW DATA WILL BE COLLECTED
The PI will explore imprisoned women's experiences through audio-recorded interviews and spend time observing the prison environment. This will include observation of the processes and decision making, such as sitting the 'mother and baby board'. Through audio-recorded interviews, the experiences of midwives, social workers, health visitors (HVs) and CJS staff will be elicited to understand the experiences and decision making regarding imprisoned women being separated from their babies.
ETHICS AND ADVISORY GROUP
An advisory group, including charities and women who have lived experience, will inform all ethics decision making. The project will be conducted with integrity and transparency, complying with the ESRC framework for research ethics. The PI has built strong links with the female prison estate and continues to volunteer with the charity Birth Companions supporting pregnant women and new mothers in prison.
BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT
The study is unique in that it is the first project to link the professions of Social Work, Health Visiting, Midwifery and CJS staff, with women prisoners' experiences at its heart. Recommendations arising from this research has the potential to build upon and further improve understanding of women's experiences and the procedures involved in removal of new-borns from their imprisoned mothers. The project will benefit academic and health research, notably in the sociology of health and illness criminology, midwifery, health visiting and social work.
The PI was awarded a one-year, full time Mildred Blaxter Post-Doctoral Fellowship from The Foundation for the Sociology of Health and Illness in 2020. The first opportunity to undertake research was as a mature doctoral student with the project: An ethnographic study into the experiences of pregnant women in English prisons. This was successfully awarded in 2018. This research had several impacts through media, presentations, publications and a change in prison policy.
BACKGROUND
In the UK, it is estimated that 6-7% of the female prison population are at varying stages of pregnancy and approximately 100 babies are born to incarcerated women each year. There are no exact data of the numbers of newborn babies removed from their mother at or soon after birth. There are six Mother and Baby Units (MBUs) in the 12 women's prisons in the UK, currently, all underutilised. Accounts from research of women being separated from their new-born babies demonstrate a deep sense of loss, yet surprisingly little research has examined experiences of the professionals and processes involved in separating mothers from their babies.
THE LOST MOTHERS PROJECT
This project will comprise qualitative semi-structured interviews of the key professionals involved with pregnant women who have Criminal Justice System (CJS) involvement. Women who have been or who are in the process of being separated from their babies will be offered an in-depth face-to-face interview. The charity, Birth Companions and their Lived Experience Team will act as consultants to the project helping with recruitment, introductions, advising on participatory information, interview questions and consent forms. Non-participant observation of the processes involved will take place.
PILOT STUDY
This proposal has been informed by a pilot study of the views of one group of actors (birth supporters) attending women who were being separated from their babies. This was undertaken by the PI during the Post-Doctoral Fellowship, in preparation for this proposal. Birth supporters suggested that the approach to mothers being separated from their newborn babies' cause women to face: "a huge amount of criticism, blame, judgement and a real lack of empathy."
HOW DATA WILL BE COLLECTED
The PI will explore imprisoned women's experiences through audio-recorded interviews and spend time observing the prison environment. This will include observation of the processes and decision making, such as sitting the 'mother and baby board'. Through audio-recorded interviews, the experiences of midwives, social workers, health visitors (HVs) and CJS staff will be elicited to understand the experiences and decision making regarding imprisoned women being separated from their babies.
ETHICS AND ADVISORY GROUP
An advisory group, including charities and women who have lived experience, will inform all ethics decision making. The project will be conducted with integrity and transparency, complying with the ESRC framework for research ethics. The PI has built strong links with the female prison estate and continues to volunteer with the charity Birth Companions supporting pregnant women and new mothers in prison.
BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT
The study is unique in that it is the first project to link the professions of Social Work, Health Visiting, Midwifery and CJS staff, with women prisoners' experiences at its heart. Recommendations arising from this research has the potential to build upon and further improve understanding of women's experiences and the procedures involved in removal of new-borns from their imprisoned mothers. The project will benefit academic and health research, notably in the sociology of health and illness criminology, midwifery, health visiting and social work.
Publications
Abbott L
(2024)
Co-production in the Lost Mothers Project: transforming criminal justice narratives through Lived experience engagement.
in Research involvement and engagement
Abbott. L
(2024)
Institutional thoughtlessness and the incarcerated pregnancy.
in Criminology & Criminal Justice (CCJ).
Baldwin L
(2023)
Pregnancy and New Motherhood in Prison
| Title | Lost Mothers' Project writing retreat |
| Description | Our 2-day writing retreat will facilitate the creation of diverse creative content where participants will collectively delve into their experiences, harnessing our proven record of successful co-production. We aim to deepen connections, enabling us to explore the unique challenges faced by mothers entangled in the criminal justice system. Our target achievement is to produce a collection of impactful creative works and analytical insights, culminating in an exhibition that sparks conversations and societal transformation. |
| Type Of Art | Creative Writing |
| Year Produced | 2024 |
| Impact | To be held in May 2024 |
| Title | Lost mothers Logo |
| Description | Logo designed and developed by lived experience team. |
| Type Of Art | Image |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Impact | The Lost Mothers logo has proven to be a catalyst for impactful outcomes, particularly in the realms of merchandise creation and fostering a sense of ownership among the women involved in the project, embedding the Lived Experience Team (LET). Firstly, in terms of merchandise, the logo has translated into tangible products that extend the project's visibility and message. Whether on clothing items, promotional materials, or other artefacts, the logo serves as a recognisable symbol associated with the Lost Mothers project. This not only facilitates awareness but also provides a means for individuals to express solidarity and support for the cause through the acquisition and display of merchandise. Secondly, the logo plays a crucial role in instilling a sense of ownership and empowerment among the women connected to the project, particularly those comprising the Lived Experience Team. By actively contributing to the design process, these women have become integral stakeholders in the visual representation of the Lost Mothers initiative. The logo serves as a tangible manifestation of their involvement, reinforcing their agency, and emphasising the importance of lived experiences in shaping the narrative surrounding pregnancy in prison and separation from newborns. In essence, the Lost Mothers logo transcends its visual representation; it becomes a symbol of empowerment, unity, and shared purpose. As a visual identifier, it strengthens the project's presence, while for the women involved, it fosters a deep sense of ownership and validation, acknowledging their vital role in the endeavour. |
| URL | https://lostmothers.org/our-first-lived-experience-team-lost-mothers-workshop/ |
| Description | Expert witness |
| Geographic Reach | Local/Municipal/Regional |
| Policy Influence Type | Citation in other policy documents |
| Impact | I served as an expert witness in a case involving a woman who was 34 weeks pregnant and serving a 5-year prison sentence. She was released from prison on appeal to have her baby in the community. |
| URL | https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/jan/19/pregnant-woman-jail-sentence-quashed-in-landmark-uk-... |
| Description | Invited talk to Cambridge Girton Local Association |
| Geographic Reach | Local/Municipal/Regional |
| Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
| Impact | The talk contributed to a broader awareness and changed perception among the public regarding the challenges faced by mothers within the criminal justice system. There has been a noticeable shift in public attitudes. Increased understanding and empathy toward these women have contributed to reduced stigma and a more supportive societal environment. |
| Description | Member of Royal College of Midwives Research Priorities Steering Group |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to new or improved professional practice |
| URL | https://www.rcm.org.uk/promoting/education-hub/research-and-funding/research-prioritisation-project/ |
| Description | National Advisory Bi-Annual Forums on Pregnancy & MBUs 2024 |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Policy Influence Type | Contribution to a national consultation/review |
| Impact | My attendance at the National Advisory Bi-Annual Forums on Pregnancy & Mother and Baby Units (MBUs) and active participation as a representative of the Prison Midwives Action Group has influenced several positive changes: Policy Improvements: Contributing to the enhancement of existing policies related to pregnancy and MBUs, ensuring they are more effective and responsive to the needs of women in prison. Guidance Enhancements: Playing a role in refining and improving guidance documents, providing valuable insights to ensure they are comprehensive, practical, and supportive. Stakeholder Collaboration: Fostering increased collaboration and understanding among stakeholders from government, civil service, healthcare, and criminal justice settings. My involvement has facilitated better communication and coordination. Advocacy for Perinatal Women in Prison: Advocating for the specific needs and rights of women in prison, addressing gaps in data, healthcare, and advocacy efforts, and ensuring a more gender-sensitive approach in the discussions. Practical Solutions: Bringing practical solutions to the forefront by sharing insights from the Prison Midwives Action Group, thereby influencing the development and implementation of policies that address real-world challenges. Increased Awareness: Raising awareness about the unique healthcare needs of pregnant individuals and mothers in prison, contributing to a more informed and compassionate approach within the various sectors represented at the forums. Improved Monitoring and Evaluation: Advocating for more robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to regularly assess the effectiveness of policies and initiatives related to pregnancy and MBUs, ensuring ongoing improvements. Inclusive Decision-Making: Promoting inclusivity in decision-making processes, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of those involved in prison midwifery are considered and integrated into broader discussions. Overall, my attendance has likely played a pivotal role in shaping a more comprehensive, inclusive, and effective approach to policies, guidance, and practices concerning pregnancy and MBUs in prison. |
| Description | • Centre for Applied Clinical, Health and Care Research (CACHE) Launch Event CACHE launch - talk delivered re Lost Mothers project |
| Geographic Reach | Local/Municipal/Regional |
| Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
| Impact | Following the talk at the CACHE Launch Event, a notable change occurred in the form of increased awareness regarding the complex issues addressed by the Lost Mothers Project. The presentation succeeded in illuminating the challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system during pregnancy and separation from their newborns. The audience, consisting of service users, researchers, and the general public, gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies surrounding these issues. This heightened awareness likely contributed to a broader recognition of the importance of initiatives like the Lost Mothers Project in the context of clinical, health, and care research. Additionally, the emphasis on collaboration with lived experience members likely fostered a greater appreciation for the value of including diverse perspectives in research endeavours. Overall, the talk played a pivotal role in sparking increased consciousness and dialogue surrounding the complex issues at the heart of the Lost Mothers Project. |
| URL | https://www.herts.ac.uk/about-us/news-and-events/news/20223/health-and-care-research-expands-at-hert... |
| Description | Harmonised Impact Funding Call. |
| Amount | £7,350 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Hertfordshire |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 01/2024 |
| End | 07/2024 |
| Description | Patient and public participation Lost Mothers' Project writing retreat |
| Amount | £8,740 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Hertfordshire |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 04/2024 |
| End | 12/2024 |
| Description | Collaboration with Clean Break theatre company |
| Organisation | Clean Break |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Our contributions encompass a comprehensive approach that draws on research, innovative storytelling methods, collaboration with relevant organisations, and a commitment to ensuring the voices of those with lived experiences are central to the project's success. This project stands to make a meaningful impact on the understanding and awareness of the challenges faced by incarcerated mothers and their newborns. |
| Collaborator Contribution | This project will support ESRC funded research to create short films about the challenges of separating incarcerated mothers from their newborns. This expands on the knowledge gained from my doctorate, which involved re-voicing participants' narratives through actors with the resulting films reported by stakeholders to be highly effective in transforming their perceptions of mothers' experiences. The films will be made in a co-production workshop with Clean Break and Birth Companions, and used at events to raise awareness for NHS, Ministry of Justice, and social care organisations. Birth Companions' lived experience team will serve as consultants and advisors to the project. |
| Impact | The impact project will support the ESRC New Investigator grant titled "Lost mothers: How women and professionals involved with the criminal justice system (CJS) experience enforced separation of new-born babies." This will involve developing a co-production creative workshop with the theatre company 'Clean Break,' the lived experience team (LET) from the charity Birth Companions (BC), and the Lost Mother's team to create short filmed vignettes depicting the experiences of women being compulsorily separated from their babies. The films will be shown at seminars and events, including a stakeholder event at the House of Commons. This project involves using BCs' LET as consultants and advisors to ESRC research, with services already contracted via UH's legal team. Its significance is in amplifying the voices of incarcerated women by providing a platform for sharing stories and perspectives, increasing understanding and promoting change. Project Aims 1. Expanding reach of the Lost Mothers research: Clean Break (CB) is a theatre company that works with women who have experienced the CJS. By making short films, the project can reach a wider audience, through CBs network and reach, explore new forms of storytelling and raise awareness about the issues faced. 2. Advocating for change: CB and BCs have a history of advocating for policy change in relation to women and the CJS. 3. A workshop would support participants from the LET develop skills in advocacy, engagement and activism. 4. Building partnerships: Collaborating with creatives will help to build new partnerships and networks and have a positive impact upon LET members. Stakeholders we plan to engage include: Women who have experienced the CJS; CJS professionals including probation officers, social workers, and prison staff; Advocacy groups and NGOs; Policymakers and funders; NHS safeguarding teams; midwives, health visitors and obstetricians; social work professionals. Our anticipated areas of research impact are: CJS policy and practice; Women's health and well-being; Gender equality; Arts and culture; Public awareness. To capture the intended impacts on beneficiaries, we will develop performance indicators. For instance, we will ask audience members to state three words they would associate with the project before and after the films. This approach will provide a snapshot of their attitudes and help us track progress towards the project's objectives. Ultimately, it will enable us to capture the intended impacts and determine the views they hold at the beginning and end of the event. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Title | Lost Mothers project logo |
| Description | The initial meeting with Birth Companions and the lived experience team, held in London on a chilly January day, involved introductions and discussions about personal connections with Birth Companions. We introduced the Lost Mothers project and emphasised the integral role of the Lived Experience Team (LET). Participants, including women with first-hand experience of separation from their infants, engaged in open conversations. During discussions about prison experiences, one participant used the term 'feeling lost,' prompting a reflection on the project title 'Lost Mothers.' The consensus was that 'lost' aptly described the emotional aspects of their experiences. Women associated the term with feelings of being adrift, solitary, isolated, undeserving, caught in limbo, forgotten, existing within a void, and undergoing identity loss. The meeting also involved designing a logo using arts and crafts materials funded by the University of Hertfordshire. One participant creatively used pink/mauve crepe paper to quickly craft a visually striking and meaningful logo. |
| IP Reference | |
| Protection | Trade Mark |
| Year Protection Granted | 2023 |
| Licensed | No |
| Impact | The Lost Mothers logo has proven to be a catalyst for impactful outcomes, particularly in the realms of merchandise creation and fostering a sense of ownership among the women involved in the project, embedding the Lived Experience Team (LET). Firstly, in terms of merchandise, the logo has translated into tangible products that extend the project's visibility and message. Whether on clothing items, promotional materials, or other artifacts, the logo serves as a recognisable symbol associated with the Lost Mothers project. This not only facilitates awareness but also provides a means for individuals to express solidarity and support for the cause through the acquisition and display of merchandise. Secondly, the logo plays a crucial role in instilling a sense of ownership and empowerment among the women connected to the project, particularly those comprising the Lived Experience Team. By actively contributing to the design process, these women have become integral stakeholders in the visual representation of the Lost Mothers initiative. The logo serves as a tangible manifestation of their involvement, reinforcing their agency, and emphasising the importance of lived experiences in shaping the narrative surrounding pregnancy in prison and separation from newborns. In essence, the Lost Mothers logo transcends its visual representation; it becomes a symbol of empowerment, unity, and shared purpose. As a visual identifier, it strengthens the project's presence, while for the women involved, it fosters a deep sense of ownership and validation, acknowledging their vital role in the endeavour. |
| Title | Lost Mothers Project website |
| Description | Lost Mothers Project website |
| Type Of Technology | Webtool/Application |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Impact | Regular blog and uploading of resources |
| URL | http://www.lostmothers.org |
| Description | Conference |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | A research team member participated in the #SheMatters Criminal Justice Conference, themed 'Flourishing Beyond Restraint.' During the event, they listened to individuals with lived experience, and engaged with and networked with practitioners, researchers, and experts by experience. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/shematters-criminal-justice-conference-flourishing-beyond-restraint-t... |
| Description | Guest on a Podcast - Thru the Pinard Podcast: Navigating Pregnancy in Prison |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Laura appeared as a guest on a podcast spotlighting the experiences of pregnancy in prison from a midwifery perspective. The podcast features two other members of the Pregnancy in Prison Partnership International (PiPPi) and gave an international perspective on pregnancy and midwifery in prison. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://thruthepinardpodcast.buzzsprout.com/1441249/14115021-ep-68-pippi-navigating-pregnancy-in-pri... |
| Description | Interview for national news |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | I was invited to discuss our research on both Sky News and Channel 4 News in response to a story about an infant's death in prison. The coverage sparked extensive discussions on social media and in newspapers, with debate shows delving into the question of whether pregnant women should be incarcerated. The exposure led to a significant outreach to a large audience. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Lady Edwina Grosvenor podcast for JUSTICE |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Participated in a compelling podcast as part of the JUSTICE series, discussing The Lost Mothers Project. Joined by a member with lived experience, we delved into the significance of the project, outlining its aims and objectives. The discussion offered insight into the necessity of addressing the challenges faced by women being separated from their babies in the criminal justice system and highlighted the meaningful involvement of individuals with lived experiences in shaping the project's goals. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://onesmallthing.org.uk/justice-podcast-motherhood-in-the-justice-system |
| Description | Launch of new Birth Charter for women with involvement from children's social care |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The Lost Mothers team attended a launch event in London where they were introduced to Birth Companions new Birth Charter, addressing the growing number of babies and infants facing care proceedings. The team were able to network with policy makers, politicians, practitioners, women with lived experience, third sector organisations and legal representatives. The charter aims to draw attention to the overlooked needs of women involved with children's social care, especially those falling through gaps in fragmented and overstretched services. Thousands of women have contact with the children's social care system during pregnancy and early motherhood in England, leading to various outcomes, including court proceedings and the removal of babies from their care. The Birth Charter, informed by the experiences of mothers and input from practitioners (including the PI) , commissioners, academics, and others, outlines fourteen principles to guide policy, commissioning, and professional practice. It specifically calls for a national health and social care pathway for pregnant women and mothers of infants involved in pre-birth or parenting assessments or child protection proceedings. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.birthcompanions.org.uk/articles/birth-companions-publishes-new-birth-charter-for-women-w... |
| Description | Lost mothers team workshop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Patients, carers and/or patient groups |
| Results and Impact | he inaugural meeting convened in London in January 2023. The introductory session involved participants sharing their affiliations with Birth Companions and articulating the significance of the organisation to each of them. The primary focus was on introducing the Lost Mothers project, emphasising the integral role of the Lived Experience Team (LET) and underscoring their ownership as a critical component. The ensuing discussions around the table were characterised by openness and candour, with women who had experienced separation from their babies or navigated the decision-making process of the mother and baby unit actively participating. During the discourse on prison experiences, a poignant moment arose when one woman used the phrase 'feeling lost.' This prompted a meaningful exploration of the project's title, particularly the term 'lost mothers.' The consensus emerged that the word 'lost' aptly encapsulated the emotions associated with their experiences. Participants expressed how they connected with the term, citing associations with feeling adrift at sea, alone, isolated, undeserved, caught in the middle, forgotten, in a lost and empty space, and losing one's identity. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://lostmothers.org/our-first-lived-experience-team-lost-mothers-workshop/ |
| Description | Training - Qualitative Interview Training at Hertforshire University |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Training held at the University of Researcher for postgraduate students and researchers on qualitative interviewing. Two of the research assistants attended the training which was useful for the project in developing research skills around interviewing. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Trauma informed training for Lost Mothers team |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Third sector organisations |
| Results and Impact | The team participated in training focused on trauma-informed approaches to conducting interviews. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Zepherina Veitch lecture - Improving maternity services for the most vulnerable |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Delivered the Royal College of Midwives Zepherina Veitch lecture to share the experiences of pregnant prisoners and The Lost Mothers project |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.rcm.org.uk/media/6634/speakers-biographies-final.pdf |