NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is bringing Black History Month 2022 to a close by announcing the commissioning of a new giant mural at Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI) to celebrate diversity and promote NHSGGC’s commitment to reducing health inequality in black maternal health and baby outcomes.
The mural, which is being designed by Artisan Artworks, will be painted at the entrance to the maternity unit, and will add to the city’s growing Mural Trails. It forms part of a collection of murals to help fight racism in the city. The latest piece of art, arranged in partnership with Rachel Dallas will add to the collection and to the larger Mural Trail in Glasgow.
The image represents a black mother and daughter from the local community, and hopes to shine a light on the challenges facing black mothers and babies, and work ongoing to improve the health outcomes for minority communities.
The mural comes following widespread research which demonstrates that racial disparities which exist in maternal healthcare across the UK.
Commenting, Jamie Redfern, Director for Women and Children’s Services at NHSGGC, said: “We welcome the mural at the GRI. As one of the largest maternity units in the country serving a diverse community, we recognise that more work needs to be done to help improve equity of care to black women and babies, not just in our city, but right across the country. The mural will be a great addition to Glasgow’s now famous mural trail, and will act as poignant reminder of the need for equity of care for all patients, regardless of background.”
Campaigner, Rachel Dallas, said: “This mural is a tribute to the women behind the statistics on racial disparities in maternal health. As a mixed black woman living in Glasgow, I hope it reminds all who enter the hospital (staff, patients, and visitors) of the right to equality of both health care and health outcomes, as well as providing a beautiful representation of the strength and resilience of motherhood.”
Frank Carty of Artisan Artworks, added: “I am honoured to be painting this mural which it is hoped will highlight inequality in maternal care for black mothers. The image should also be very welcoming and maternal to all visitors to the Maternity Hospital, and I’m hoping it will provide a really positive focus for that part of the hospital.”
Initial work started on the 28th of October, with the final piece set to complete w/c 31st October (weather dependent).
ENDS
