unconference /ʌnˈkɒnf(ə)r(ə)n(t)s/
noun: unconference; plural noun: unconferences
a loosely structured conference emphasizing the informal exchange of information and ideas between participants, rather than following a conventionally structured programme of events.
"at this unconference, attendees created sessions on the spot, making for an energizing and freewheeling exchange" Definitions from Oxford Languages
Bumps, Births & Bravery
Part of ANKH Place C.I.C Perinatal Mental Health Programme
Maternity
Unconference
Unconference 1.0
The first Bumps, Birth and Bravery unconference was launched during Black History Month 2024 "Reclaiming Narratives"and centred on the lived experiences of parents, capturing their stories during a focus group and through creative methods, including an infographic summary.
The event brought together national professionals such as Professor Monica Lakhanpaul is a nationally and internationally recognised academic (Professor of Integrated Community Child Health, UCL Great Ormond Street; Wendy Olayiwola, MBE, the National Maternity Lead for NHS England and David Neita, a poet, lawyer and community leader known for translating complex social issues into accessible, thought-provoking dialogue.
The conference also featured contributions from key third sector partners, enriching the discussion with diverse perspectives from across health, community, and advocacy sectors.
Unconference 2.0
The second Bumps, Birth and Bravery unconference built on the findings of the first event, facilitating deeper discussions around key issues raised by parents. These included difficulties navigating maternity systems, experiences of inequality and racism and the lack of adequate support for all during birth and postnatal care.
The event brought together organisations working directly to address these challenges, such as Elly Charity, which focuses on health literacy and a Birth partner training organisation, supporting women from the antenatal to postnatal period. Powerful personal stories from women were also shared, grounding the discussions in lived experience.
Throughout both unconferences, we were supported by community stakeholders including the University of East London. Public Health Lecturer Tracey LeMay, alongside her students, provided valuable on-the-ground engagement and showcased examples of public health in action.
Additional stallholders also contributed, highlighting local initiatives and community support services relevant to perinatal wellbeing.
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Perinatal Mental Health Film in a minute
Unconference 3.0
The third Bumps, Birth and Bravery unconference, held during Black History Month 2025, built on the momentum of the previous events. Centred around the theme “Standing Firm in Pride and Power,” the focus shifted from identifying challenges to exploring solutions asking what’s working, where the gaps remain and how community power can drive change.
Presentations included OCEAN, a collaborative perinatal mental health and loss initiative led by East London Foundation Trust and Sister Circle; Babyi-org addressing baby abandonment and providing first aid training for new parents; Elite Maternity Services and Mini Me Folks, who support women throughout the perinatal journey.
Interactive discussion circles explored key themes such as attachment, extreme maternity experiences and the vital role of fathers. The combination of the outcomes from the unconferences provided the foundation for developing the next phase, shaped by clear shared goals and a commitment to community-led action steeped in lived experience.
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Maternity Health Literacy Film
