Hi, my name is Tahira Mumtaz, and I’m a final-year PhD student at the University of Bradford. I am researching the lived experiences of forced migrant women regarding their childbirth cultural traditions during the perinatal period. My work explores the barriers these women face in practising their traditions while navigating the UK maternity system, and most importantly, their own suggestions on how these challenges can be addressed within NHS midwifery services.

On 30th May 2025, I had the opportunity to visit the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) to meet with final-year midwifery students as part of a stakeholder consultation exercise. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Marie-Clare and Ann from UCLan, who responded with such warmth and enthusiasm when I first reached out. Their support in organising the session and connecting me with students made the entire experience both seamless and deeply rewarding.

The focus of the consultation was on how NHS maternity services can better understand and integrate cultural practices that are meaningful to women during pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. These practices, while deeply rooted in tradition and identity, often encounter systemic barriers that can make it difficult, or even impossible, for women to implement them.

The midwifery students I met were bright, engaged, open-minded, and genuinely passionate about learning how to provide culturally sensitive and inclusive care. They listened carefully to the voices of the women in my research, asked thoughtful questions, and shared

reflections that demonstrated a genuine commitment to making positive changes in their future practice.

This session was much more than just a consultation. It was a mutual learning experience. Being able to share the lived experiences and suggestions of migrant women with the next generation of midwives was incredibly meaningful, and the feedback I received from the students helped me think more deeply about how to translate my findings into practical, actionable guidance.

The entire visit reminded me of why this research matters. When we bring these important conversations into educational spaces, we help ensure that the voices of marginalised women are heard, respected, and acted upon. To Marie-Clare, Ann, and all the students who welcomed me so warmly, thank you.

Here’s to more opportunities for connection, learning, and collaboration as we work together to build maternity care that is truly inclusive, respectful, and responsive to all.