Discussion group for those who considered giving birth at St Mary's between Jul 2025 - Sep 2026

NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland are inviting patients, birthing people, and families to take part in small, relaxed group discussions. Your feedback will help shape future services.

This group is for those who considered giving birth at St Mary's Birth Centre between July 2025 and September 2026, but had to choose an alternative place to give birth due to the pause in services.

Questions and answers

Who is running the discussion groups and what will they involve?

The groups will be run by staff from NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board. Each session will last up to two hours, with a group of no more than 15 people in a friendly, informal setting.

What will happen after the discussion groups?

An independent researcher will analyse the discussion notes and questionnaire responses and produce a report, which will be received by the Integrated Care Board. All feedback will be anonymous.

Can I bring my children and will there be breastfeeding facilities?

You may bring children but there are not any crèche facilities. A separate room will be available for anyone who wishes to use it.

Can I bring my partner/carer/family member?

Places in the discussion group are limited, so we kindly ask for one participant per family where possible. If you need to bring someone to help with childcare or transport, they are welcome to accompany you, but we ask that they do not join the discussion group so that we can make space for others who would like to share their views. A separate room will be available for companions who wish to wait nearby. However, if you would feel more comfortable having another adult join the discussion, please book a separate ticket for them so we can manage numbers appropriately.

What about refreshments, parking, and travel costs?

Drinks will be provided. The venues have parking spaces. We can reimburse travel and childcare costs. Contact us for more info.

How can I find out more or request information in a different format?

Visit bit.ly/smbc-impact, email llricb-llr.beinvolved@nhs.net, or call 0116 295 7532.