Samaritans Annual Conference - York University

Central Hall

Themed as 'Space to talk' this is the 59th Annual Conference. The long weekend promised the opportunity to hear thought provoking plenaries and seminars along with the chance to mingle with around 1,000 fellow volunteers.

Terry Waite CBE

Chief Exec Catherine Johnstone * Stephen Hoddel Chairman

Our keynote speaker on the Friday evening was Terry Waite CBE. In January 1987 Terry was captured in Beirut whilst attempting to secure the release of hostages. He was kept in solitary confinement for 4 years and 5 years in total or 1,763 days if you prefer.

Attended some really interesting seminars relating to Self Harm, Borderline Personality Disorder and Suicide in the media and how Samaritans advise. Some lovely grounds at the University and some very tame birds in the beautiful lakes.