One of the patients who took part was Sherika, who was delighted to return to the hospital with her 7-month-old baby Julius to see the finished vinyls. She said:
Coming back with Julius and seeing ourselves on the wall outside the postnatal ward was really special. The hospital supported me through such an important time during each of my pregnancies, and taking part felt like a small way to give something back. I hope it helps other families feel welcome and find their way more easily.
The project was developed in response to direct patient feedback from Leeds Maternity & Neonatal Voices Partnership (MNVP). The new vinyls incorporate maternity branding, professional photography, and the phrase ‘Welcome to maternity’ translated into many of the languages most commonly spoken by maternity patients in Leeds, helping families feel welcomed and supported from the moment they arrive. The photography features patients who were pregnant or had recently given birth, alongside staff working in maternity services.
Patients were invited to take part in photography sessions, with images captured last year. The resulting photographs are diverse and representative of the maternity population in Leeds, celebrating patients, their babies, families, and the staff who care for them.
The vinyls were generously funded by Leeds Hospitals Charity, whose support has made the project possible. One vinyl has been installed outside the antenatal clinic at St James’s Hospital, and vinyls at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) include outside the Maternity Assessment Centre (MAC), the postnatal ward and the antenatal clinic.
At LGI, the vinyls are helping maternity areas stand out within Clarendon Wing, which is primarily home to children’s wards, making it easier for families to find the right department.
Following the success of this first phase, more vinyls are planned across maternity services. The Trust is extremely grateful to all the patients who took the time to attend photography sessions and share their stories and images.
The new wall vinyls will be complemented by new and improved signage across maternity areas to further enhance wayfinding. This work is expected to be completed in Spring, continuing the Trust’s commitment to creating welcoming, accessible and inclusive environments for all families as part of an investment of almost £2 million.