Our History

With a longstanding history of support for individuals, couples, children and families in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland we are entering into an exciting new chapter.

The charity formerly known as Relate Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland is proud to announce it’s rebrand as The Relationships Centre Leicestershire, a name that reflects the breadth, depth and diversity of the services it now provides to the local community.

Whilst the name is new, the story behind it is rich with local history.

Our Legacy: Serving Leicester/shire since 1946

Our story began in March 1946 when a dedicated Marriage Committee was formed to address the growing need for guidance and support for couples in Leicester. The movement was spearheaded by influential local figures, including the Vice President of the Rotary Club of Leicester, George Blake, and Mrs. Mary Attenborough—mother of the renowned Richard, David, and John Attenborough. Mrs Mary Attenborough was also one of the first marriage guidance counsellors.

Just one year later, in March 1947, the dream became a reality. At a special event in the Town Hall, the Lord Mayor of Leicester, William Henry Smith, officially launched the Marriage Guidance Council. With a committed team, including Secretary Philip Ashwell a partner of Andrews and Ashwell (Estate agents and auctioneers), Mr A F savage acted as chairman (Secretary of the YMCA) and treasurer Mrs. D. M. Gimson (a respected civic leader and Red Cross stalwart), the council opened its first premises.

Over the decades, as our organization grew and our services evolved, so did our home. We moved to Severn Street in 1957, through several locations including 104 Welford Road, 97 Regent Street and 94 London Road (Now Bond Adams Solicitors), before finding our permanent base on Aylestone Road in February 1988 when the Marriage Guidance Council became Relate Leicestershire.

Throughout our history, we have been shaped and guided by influential Leicester citizens who believed in our mission. We are proud to have had Professor Edward Griew, the distinguished Head of Law at Leicester University and author of The Theft Acts 1968 and 1978, serving as chair on the board from 1966 to 1987.

These leaders built the foundation for what is now The Relationships Centre Leicestershire.

A New Name, A Stronger Future

The charity continues its legacy of care, compassion, and professional expertise, but with a renewed focus on inclusivity, integrity and innovation.

The decision to rebrand as The Relationships Centre is about more than a name change. It’s about recognising that relationships, with us, with others, and with our wider communities, are the foundation of wellbeing.

We have grown far beyond our original roots in Marriage Guidance, and we needed a name that reflects who we are today. The Relationships Centre is about helping people of all ages build stronger, healthier relationships and to be able to access the therapeutic support they need.

Relationships England and Wales

In addition, to our local change, The Relationships Centre Leicestershire also joins 23 previous Relate federated centres who have rebranded and come together to form a new national network — Relationships England and Wales. 

Together with our sister organisation, Relationships Scotland, Relationships England and Wales is now the largest provider of in-person relationship counselling services across the UK. 

As a network we remain committed to providing high-quality, local, and timely support — including both in-person and online appointments.  You can see our geographical spread at www.relationshipsenglandandwales.org.uk