After the Ebola epidemic and decades of institutional neglect - Sierra Leone sits between health and debt crises exacerbated by conditional international loan payments that drive austerity measures. With the arrival of COVID-19, Sierra Leone’s fragile health system has been stretched to its limits.

Women, girls and children are particularly vulnerable during times of crises. We explore why this is the case, with a particular focus on what it’s like to be a new or expectant mother in Sierra Leone.

This project will develop both investigative and character-driven narratives, placing emphasis on local collaboration.

Application title: Young, Pregnant & Punished: mothers and girls in Sierra Leone