Reducing inequalities in Stillbirth and Neonatal Death

In 2022 babies from Black ethnic groups continued to have the highest stillbirth and neonatal death rate, with a rate of 11.9 per 1000 compared with 5.8 for babies from white mothers. 

A key warning sign of a baby in distress is a decrease in movements. When a baby is deprived of oxygen, they will slow their movements to conserve it. About 50% of mothers who experienced a stillbirth noticed a reduction in their baby’s movements beforehand. Early detection and immediate reporting of any changes in movement can potentially prevent a third of stillbirths.

The Confidential Enquiry into Stillbirths and Deaths in Infancy highlighted that a lack of prompt response to reduced fetal movement was a significant factor in stillbirth cases.

Our Kick Count wristbands are a great tool for parents to keep track of their baby's movements so they can identify any change and report it promptly. 

We are looking to fund 1000 wristbands that can be given to Black women to help them keep track of their baby's movements. The money will also fund a dedicated team of Black women to influence and shape how we implement future resources.

The wristbands will be sent to groups and organisations working with Black pregnant women

Kicks Count is run by one woman, who is white. A team of people with lived experience of the issue I am trying to address is crucial to  ensure that the project is not only relevant but also respectful and empowering, avoiding assumptions or one-size-fits-all solutions.

Why not a team of volunteers? 

In a project specifically aimed at supporting Black women, it’s crucial that Black women are paid team members rather than volunteers to ensure true equity, sustainability, and respect for their expertise. Historically, Black women’s labour—especially in advocacy and community work—has often been undervalued or expected to be given freely. If Kicks Count, a charity run by a white woman, is securing funding for this work, then funding must also go towards compensating Black women who are doing the labour to make it meaningful.