Our guest speakers were able to promote different opportunities for support and guidance that they may not have previously been aware of. The event was a success and received really positive feedback from those who were able to attend.
“A very positive experience. Each topic was relevant and informative.”Family member
Presentations on the day were:
- ‘Spotlight on Mental Health Advocacy’ delivered by Odug Mohamed, Independent Mental Health Advocate from Advent Advocacy
- ‘Information about The Greenwich Carers Centre’ by Mark Foulds, Assistant Director Adult Carers Support Services from The Stables: The Greenwich Carers Centre
- ‘An Introduction to Families Anonymous’ a share from a family member who found support and personal recovery through Families Anonymous
- ‘An Open Discussion with Rafik Hamaizia’ by our very own Cygnet Expert By Experience
The Novotel team put on a lovely lunch, which gave all in attendance an opportunity to sit and eat together, whilst continuing conversation about the information discussed throughout the day.
We launched our travel bursary at this event, which enabled all in attendance (staff not included) to request reimbursement for their travel expenses. We recognise that our service users families are not based within the local area, so we hoped this will help provide more financial support where needed.
With all our speakers being external to the hospital, our information table and take home bags were full of leaflets and handouts which were really useful. Additionally, our new Cygnet Hospital Blackheath (Meridian Ward & Tyler Ward) “Information for Family, Friends and Carers” booklets were on display for attendees to take away.
“Excellent subjects. Relevant but diverse speakers.”Family member
A massive thank you to all the team for their hard work and support in making the day a success, and an even larger thank you for our guest speakers for taking time out of their busy schedules to support this forum. We look forward to our next event in the summer, which we hope will bring more families together.