‘From the moment I arrived I was surrounded by energy’
We wondered if it would ever happen – and then there we were, with everyone pouring through the doors of our first conference for three years. Overwhelming and exhilarating.
In this issue you’ll find all kinds of impressions of the day, but for me the highlights, alongside inspiring speakers and our team of amazing volunteers, were the connections – reunions, introductions, endless possibilities for working together and sharing ideas. It reminded me that this event is shaped by each and every person who takes part. It’s particularly inspiring to hear from people who haven’t been before. Lydia said she wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but ‘from the moment I arrived, I felt like I was surrounded by people who were full of energy and determination…’
And this is what we need to take away from one day’s event and pass on to colleagues. We have so many different viewpoints and perspectives between us and it’s not always easy to align with others’ beliefs and ways of doing things. But the common aim is to strive for better physical and mental health, safety and wellbeing and to challenge anything that limits our opportunities. A physical event is liberating and life-affirming in so many ways; let’s keep that door open.
Read the July issue as an online magazine or download the PDF here
Claire Brown, editor
Please send your letters and comment to claire@cjwellings.com