Why ReproNorth?​

We adopt a ‘place-based’ approach to Reproductive Justice, focusing on the North of England. We examine systems of oppression that impact choices available to individuals. This includes large-scale social and political environments. It also includes more local factors, such as resource distribution, infrastructure, services, and distance from national decision-making. At the same time, we recognise the strength of individuals and local communities in resisting systems of oppression. ​

We think it is important to pay specific attention to the North because there is a tendency for research, policy and professional guidance to focus on the evidence, organisations, voices and experiences from the South, and urban centres, especially London.

In addition to inequities in the North in terms of poverty and deprivation, there are also specific social, cultural and place-based factors e.g. related to immigration and industry; large counties and rural communities; and disadvantages in infrastructure in reproductive healthcare e.g. compared to the South of England.

We know that nationally that sexual and reproductive healthcare services are in crisis after years of significant service cuts and Covid-19.

We also know that some people are more likely than others to be treated unfairly or to lose out when seeking reproductive healthcare e.g. due to medical racism, ableism or LGBTQ+-phobia.  

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