Powerful new play shining light on mothers in prison to debut at University of Hertfordshire

A groundbreaking new play shining a light on the real-life experiences of pregnant women and mothers in prison, performed by women actors with experience of the criminal justice system, is being debuted at the University in Hertfordshire.

Tickets can now be purchased for Scenes from Lost Mothers; an original play written by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti created in collaboration with University of Hertfordshire researchers, Clean Break theatre company and women’s charity Birth Companions and their lived experience team. Amplifying the voices of women who have navigated the criminal justice system as new or soon-to-be mothers, it is based on research from The Lost Mothers Project, led by Dr Laura Abbott, Associate Professor in Research at Herts and a midwife, which explores the traumatic impact of separating incarcerated mothers from their newborns.

Through interviews with imprisoned women, midwives, prison officers, and social workers, as well as observations of mother-and-baby decision-making boards, the play brings to life these women’s untold stories of separation, pain, resilience and hope.

A touring show, it’s opening night will be hosted at the University of Hertfordshire’s College Lane Campus on Thursday 6 February, and followed by an exclusive panel discussion with those behind the production on the complex issues raised within the play.

Dr Laura Abbott, Associate Professor in Research at the University of Hertfordshire and lead researcher on The Lost Mother’s Project, said: “Scenes From Lost Mothers powerfully amplifies the hidden stories we uncovered through our research on the Lost Mothers Project, showing deeply personal and often overlooked experiences. By bringing these voices to the forefront, we hope to foster greater understanding, empathy, and meaningful dialogue among public and professional audiences.

“It is a privilege to see this vital work translated into such a compelling piece of theatre, and we are proud to be part of this transformative engagement effort.”

While the justice system has begun to address the needs of pregnant women, significant gaps remain in addressing post-natal experiences and the lifelong impact of maternal separation. In 2023-24, 229 pregnant women were imprisoned, with 53 giving birth behind bars. Despite these numbers and growing evidence of the poor outcomes for both the women and children separated, there is no reliable data on how many infants are separated from their mothers, leaving a devastating gap in understanding.

Expertly crafted by acclaimed playwright Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti, and performed by Clean Break – a groundbreaking theatre company created by two former, female prisoners that tackles controversial themes around criminal injustice – Scenes from Lost Mothers uncovers the stark reality of the research available and aims to prompt difficult and complex discussions around imprisonment, pregnancy and maternal separation.

Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti, Playwright says: “It’s time for radical action. Our justice system must begin to view mothers and pregnant women as human beings with complex needs and aspirations, not as problems to be solved or dismissed. Through this play, we shed light on their resilience, their pain, and their hope – stories that are too often silenced within the confines of institutions. By rethinking how we approach justice for these women, we have the opportunity to create a system that values humanity and fosters dignity, instead of perpetuating cycles of harm. This change is not just necessary, it is long overdue.”

The University of Hertfordshire, in collaboration with UH Arts, is proud to host Scenes from Lost Mothers on Thursday 6 February from 18.00-20.30 on their College Lane campus, and cost £8 per adult* or £5 for concessions. This will be a small, intimate production with limited tickets, so book fast to avoid disappointment. Book on the UH Arts website.

*Please note, due to the sensitive content of this production and vulnerable people involved, this will be a sober event and ticketholders must be 18 years or older.