School of Psychology hosts Hearing Voices Network conference
The School of Psychology hosted the 'Surviving & Thriving in a Mad World' conference for the Network's UK branch
The University of East London’s School
of Psychology hosted the Hearing Voices Network’s UK conference and AGM last
weekend, attracting more than 100 participants.
The ‘Surviving & Thriving in a Mad
World’ conference for the UK branch of the international Hearing Voices
movement explored some of the ways people and their experience of voices are
affected by a world that can be ‘maddening’.
Speakers included Alison Branitsky, a
leading member of the Hearing Voices Network in the US, who reported on its
work there, including online support groups.
The Hearing Voices Network, which aims
to challenge negative stereotypes, stigma and discrimination, has branches in
more than 20 countries. Hearing Voices’ self-help support groups create safe
spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to talk freely about
voice-hearing, visions and similar sensory experiences.
Dr John Read, professor of clinical
psychology at the University of East London, said, “The Hearing Voices movement
is, for me, one of the most exciting developments in mental health in the last
20 years. I am so pleased the University has formed a lasting partnership
with this innovative organisation.”
Professor Aneta Tunariu, dean of the
School of Psychology, said the School was “very proud to be hosting this
special event. We value our longstanding commitment to community engagement,
and we are especially pleased to partner with such an empowering grassroots
organisation.”
Dr Jacqui Dillon, the founder of the Hearing Voices Network, was
conferred with an honorary doctorate from the University in East London in 2017
for her services to mental health and human rights.
Pictured: Dr John Read, professor of clinical psychology at the University of East London.