The Voice Issue 5, Summer 2010 | Page 5

Sometimes you have to get along and see a group in action before you can really understand what makes it tick. That’s why we popped along to Sheffield to look in on the Heads Together meeting on 14th May. effective method than just telling them about the group, which can make it sound very serious and not nearly as much fun. The manual helps to convey just the right impression, and it reassures them; they realise there and then that joining up is going to be worth their while. Heads Together provides a great support network for a large area. But, even more than that, it gives people the golden opportunity to get together with understanding friends and enjoy each other’s company. If you’d like to find out more about the Heads Together group, just get in touch with Louise on 0114 226 8776, or Tracy on 0114 271 1587. They’ll be happy to hear from you. Are you part of a successful lary or trachi group? Why not get in touch and tell us about it… ? to help local healthcare workers, including ambulance drivers, GPs and nurses get a better grasp of the particular needs of group members and people in a similar situation, it was surprising just how many of the attendees had never had the chance to engage with members on these terms before. So this event gave them a much better insight into the sort of issues members tended to face in their daily lives. The day was a complete success – and a great awareness-raising tool to boot. Around 100 people attended and everyone went away with a slightly deeper insight into the lives of the people they’d met. Mission accomplished! If you’re in the area, then you’ll be glad to hear that Heads Together is always happy to welcome new members. Another one of their good ideas – they’re full of them – is an introductory manual, which Louise and Tracy can take onto the ward to show prospective members a bit more about the group and what they get up to. It’s a more SUPPORTING THE SUPPORT GROUPS Countrywide is delighted to offer several way s to help your local Patient Support Groups. Newsletters, posters, invitations We can design and print your Group meeting newsletters, invitations and posters, flyers and adverts. All you have to do is send us some words and pictures. We can turn them into great sounding news stories and even add some puzzles, jokes and poems to suit your group. Speaker Support A Countrywide Supplies Representative can speak at your Group meeting about new products on prescription. They can bring along samples and leaflets and explain our services. They’ll try to answer any questions that arise and can even bring refreshments. Call 0800 783 1659 for more information Summer 2010 | THE VOICE 5