SAVE THE DATE!
THE POWER OF TRUTH –
BREAKING THROUGH STIGMA, LETTING IN THE LIGHT
Friday 5th – Sunday 7th July, Launde Abbey, East Norton, LE7 9XB
Dependent behaviours imprison people with their pain and despair through stigma, guilt and shame. Whether alcohol, other drugs or gambling, the effect on individuals and those close to them is the same. To the outside world, many people privately affected in this way can appear strong, productive, resilient. Behind closed doors, the prospect of breaking through the silence, even with friends and family, can feel insurmountable.
Our theme for this year’s conference is the power of talking openly about our experiences. Trusting that if we can find the courage to speak honestly, we can help to overcome stigma, thereby helping others to do the same. It is also about the essential need to listen and respond without prejudice or judgement. To meet the darkness with the Light.
QAAD’s conferences bring together Friends in recovery or struggling with the impact of substance use or gambling, family members and friends supporting someone harmed in this way, and those seeking to deepen their understanding of these issues. Many Friends have told us how much they appreciate being able to share these experiences and reflections within a Quaker context. It is a safe, confidential space to share our insights, inspiration and concerns.
Over the course of the weekend, there will be a choice of activities designed to develop our understanding and help us all to reflect on ways ahead. In particular, we will consider how, as Friends, we can respond with compassion – when and wherever we encounter these problems, including within our Meetings. We hope you will join us, whatever your experience and interests. We are looking forward to seeing familiar faces once again, and to welcoming Friends who will be with us for the first time. Further details, including the full programme and travel advice, will be available shortly.
The cost of attendance is £270.00 which includes full board and accommodation. The conference is a nominating event and Friends can contact their Area Meeting to request being funded as the Meeting’s representative. If you would prefer to book independently, QAAD may partially fund your place, depending on circumstances, to ensure that every Friend who would like to attend can do so. Please contact Alison Mather who can advise you further.
Please complete the booking form and post or email this to Alison Mather by Friday 31st May
We may be able to accept bookings after this date, depending on availability, and there will be a waiting list in case of cancellations.
Maps and Directions
Travelling by car
- On the A47 (from Leicester or Peterborough), when you reach East Norton turn north (left if coming from Leicester, right if coming from Peterborough) and follow the road – and signs – for Loddington. At the T-junction in Loddington turn right; follow the road for about a mile. As you crest a hill and cross a cattle grid beside the road sign announcing “Launde” you’ll see the Abbey at the bottom of the hill on your right. Launde Abbey lies 14 miles east of Leicester and 30 miles west of Peterborough. We are easily accessible by car; the postcode for your satnav is LE7 9XB.
- On the A1 (from Oakham), follow the signs to the railway station and, immediately after the level crossing, turn left (following the signpost for Leicester). Take the second turning on your left, signposted Leicester and Braunston, and continue through Braunston village. After about one mile turn left shortly after the Withcote sign, signposted Launde. Cross two cattle grids and you will see Launde Abbey on the left.
Travelling by train
Oakham is the nearest station and trains stop there from Birmingham, Leicester, Peterborough or Stansted. (There is, however, only a limited service in the evening and at weekends.) Trains also run to Peterborough from the north of England and Scotland and London Kings Cross, with links to Oakham.
Taxis can be booked in advance via Rutland Cabs: 01572 757891. It is also possible to travel to Market Harborough or Leicester direct from London St Pancras, although the taxi journey is longer and more expensive. Taxis are usually available at both stations on demand.
We will also offer lifts to and from Oakham station. If you would like to arrange this, please let Alison Mather know when booking.
Travelling by bus
Unfortunately there are no bus services serving Launde Abbey