Swanwick Conference 2009: Self Advocates Log – Sunday 1^st February 2009

Time – 10.30 a.m.

At light speed 6 members of Be Heard, Marie, Tony, Mandy, Vivienne, Sophie, and Trevor supported by Gemma, Francis and David left Bracknell heading north in glorious sunshine. After a short coffee break the excitement grew even more with snow settling all around and the countryside turning whiter and whiter with every passing moment.

By the time everyone arrived at the Hayes conference centre, Swanwick Derbyshire it was with relief as it had been realised if conditions got too bad everyone was spending a night in the mini bus!!!

None of the members had been to Swanwick before and it soon lived up to everyone’s expectations with the sight of warm comfortable rooms and lots of good food.

Monday morning with snow laying thick on the ground outside and after a hearty breakfast everyone went off to join their chosen workshop in which they would participate for the next 3 days.

The theme for the 2009 Swanwick conference was healthy eating and staying safe.

Trevor joined in the "Staying Healthy in Relationships" workshop.  According to Trevor, "What I liked best about Swanwick was then big breakfast, and also the lovely room with a huge double bed--what a surprise!"  He said that the workshop was enjoyable, and that he liked doing the events in the evening, going to the  bar and playing pool.  

Sophie, Vivienne and Marie attendedd the workshop on "Staying Stress Free".   They are currently writing up a description of it, so watch this space for an update soon!

Tony and Mandy liked the conference a lot, and took part in the "Staying Safe and Healthy Through Art".  Mandy said, "I liked best drawing pictures" and Tony liked making plasticine models and talking a lot about being healthy and looking after yourself.   Tony said, "I liked meeting new people and want to go again next year."

To see all the photos from the trip, click here.