Maternal & Infant Health Equity Research Centre
Innovation. Community. Equity.
Transforming maternal and infant health through evidence-based, community-centred solutions. Founded by Sheffield Hallam University with support from NIHR Maternity Challenge Initiative.
About MIHERC
MIHERC (pronounced Me-hek) is a national centre of excellence, reducing maternal and infant health inequalities through evidence-based research, digital innovation, and community partnership.
The name “MIHERC” with its cross-cultural roots reflects our identity: Mehek is a name associated with beauty and charm, reflecting resilience, strength, empowerment and lasting positive impact. Like its namesake, MIHERC leaves a impactful impression through our transformative work.
MIHERC is founded and led by Sheffield Hallam University and works in partnership with Bournemouth University, the City of Doncaster Council, and the South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub, alongside charities, voluntary organisations and wider NIHR Challenge Maternity DIsparities consortium members.
“We are proud to bring together experts in maternal health, behavioural science, AI and digital health to help drive innovative solutions through co-production and real partnership. Our goal is to reduce inequalities and ensure better outcomes for all women and babies.”
— Professor Hora Soltani, MIHERC Founder & Director
Who are we?
MIHERC is led by Sheffield Hallam University, in partnership with Bournemouth University, the City of Doncaster Council and South Yorkshire Digital Health Hub as well as several charities and voluntary organisations.
Why it matters
Black women in the UK are 3x more likely to die during or after childbirth than White women.
Asian women are 2x more likely to die than White women.
Mothers from deprived areas face double the risk of maternal death.
Babies from ethnic minority communities are more likely to be stillborn or die neonatally.
Evidence shows women with disabilities may face higher risks, yet remain underrepresented in UK data.
What We Do:
Carry out collaborative research to identify the gaps in maternal and infant health equity
Co-produce research with diverse communities to reduce health inequities for mothers and babies
Design culturally sensitive, digital health solutions including AI-powered and other innovative approaches
Inform and influence policy through high-impact research
Provide training in inclusive, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care