The Birth Stories Project funded by the National Lottery Community Fund is part of a powerful movement to bring birth stories into the light, to create healing, and to push for change in the maternity system.

At the Sacred Birth Centre, we believe every birth story matters. Yet right now, 1 in 3 women in the UK describe their birth experience as traumatic. We know it doesn't have to be this way. Our Birth Stories Project invites people to safely share their experiences, regardless of when the birth took place or whether there story is positive, challenging or transformative. By collecting and sharing these stories, we can break the silence around birth trauma, build awareness, and advocate for better, more compassionate maternity care.

What the workshop will provide for you

In this workshop you will be able to share your birth story (whether a mother, birthkeeper/doula, midwife, partner or other) through art or another creative process, as part of a communal canvas. The facilitators Sarah Slaughter (artist) and Samsara Tanner (professional facilitator and Doula Mentor) will facilitate the session in a safe and supported space.

Stories can therefore be shared and expressed in a community space, through painting, drawing and sewing (you choose what is right for you). Participants are welcome to bring babies in arms only along to the session (as we cannot provide child care for toddlers and older children).

The communal canvas will be part of the Birth Stories exhibition in late September 2026, in Glastonbury. The exhibition will include art from four different workshops and also words and spoken words from online poetry sessions.

Please book a free space via the link here.

We will collate the findings and insights gained from the project to contribute to our advocacy for more compassionate and respectful maternity care.