--- LAUNCH 2 ---
AIMS & ETHOS: Below is a list of aims and objectives then discussed.
• Hearing Voices centered. Beyond Stigma. Genius of the intelligent! Absolute acceptance. Recovery from voices. Space to express your subjective experience in confidence without retribution from doctors, nurses, or family and friends (very strong feedback on this issue). Accessibility to all. Love, listening and sharing. Living in the present. Reclaim validation. Soul. Free phone contact. Spreading the word on HVI. Networking with service user movement. Anti stigma. Friendship and sharing
ISSUES: the following issues were debated and prioritized
• Geography – location of groups – towns / rural. Reaching out to voice hearers. Language. Picking one or two goals and developing action plan. Clarifying purpose and ethos. Ownership. Empowerment. Community based drop in groups. Links to psychiatric facilities on web site. News letter for HVI
PRIORITIES: The following is the rating for subjects discussed in no particular order:-
• Funding X9, Contacts Database X6, Research X1, Phone line X3, Careers X2, Training of Facilitators X2, Publicity X12, Support group start X11
Obviously the need to publicize and get the groups started is our priority
The final part of the day was to draw up a list of people willing to contribute to a steering committee. The following people volunteered. Terry Lynch (GP and psychotherapist), Hari MCA (SI Dublin), Brian Hartnett (voice hearer and advocate with IAN) and Tracy Millar (facilitator Belfast). This group will confer on upcoming issues like venues and training.
Just before the final break the crucial issue of funding was discussed particularly in the area of training for facilitators of hearing voices self help groups around the country. It was agreed that a report on the day’s events would be drawn up to be used as part of a submission to various bodies and that priority be given to starting groups asap. This funding application is now in progress.
Last but not least we had a wonderful wind down session with shamanic drumming with Thomas Wiegandt. A great end to a great day. Thomas can be contacted on 02837323.
Thanks
to everyone who participated. As you can see below it was a very positive
experience for all. We will keep you informed. If we don’t have your
details ring Brian on 087 7516607 or email voicesireland@gmail.com
