We are excited to share the latest publication by Dr. Mabel Lie and Dr. Caroline Claisse—“Insights from ERicar: Engaging Roma women in the co-creation of an antenatal care information resource”—published in Women’s Studies International Forum.
What Is ERicar?
ERicar is an innovative, community-driven research project that worked closely with Czech-Slovak Roma women in the UK. The aim of this project was to understand maternity needs through co-creating a prototype of an antenatal care community information resource with a group of these women in the North of England.
Why Does This Matter?
Roma women often face:
- Language and cultural barriers
- Lack of accessible information on antenatal care
- Discrimination and mistrust of healthcare systems
- Hesitancy to access pregnancy support services
These challenges can lead to inequalities in health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
A Collaborative Approach
Instead of developing resources for the community, ERicar engaged Roma women as co-designers. Through a series of participatory workshops, women contributed their stories, insights, and cultural knowledge. Together, they:
- Discussed their needs and barriers
- Designed information materials using creative methods like zine-making
- Produced a portable, shareable antenatal care resource created by and for Roma women.
Key Findings
- Community involvement is essential for effective health communication—resources need to be culturally tailored and accessible.
- Visual and narrative-based materials (like zines) help build trust and support in communities where language or literacy may be a barrier.
- The co-creation process strengthened confidence and agency among Roma mothers, making antenatal care feel more welcoming and inclusive.
Impact and Next Steps
ERicar is a shining example for public health practitioners and researchers: collaboration and co-design with marginalized groups can meaningfully reduce health inequalities. The project also informs how digital and analog methods can be blended to create flexible, community-rooted health resources.
Want to learn more? Read the study in the latest issue of Women’s Studies International Forum and explore how ERicar’s approach could inspire positive change in your own community engagement or health service design.