Conference extra

Friday 6 October:

11.00–12.00

The Times Body & Soul panel debate
Facilitated by Hilly Janes, Editor – The Times Body & Soul section

Hilly will be joined by five panellists, all bestselling authors, who are able to speak with some authority about whether modern life is indeed ruining our relationships:

Jane Fearnley-Whittingstall: Jane is author of the best-selling Good Granny Guide. However, her practical advice is helpful for people of all ages.

Suzi Godson: as a sex columnist for the Times, and author of the Sex Book and the Body Bible, Suzi speaks with some authority about relationships

Oliver James: Oliver is a writer, journalist, producer and presenter. He is the author of the bestseller 'Britain on the Couch' and 'How to Survive Family Life.'

Andrew Marshall: Andrew has been a Relate couples counsellor for 20 years and has recently published 'I love you, but I'm not in love with you.'

John Naish: John is an author and journalist, he has written 'The Hypochondriac's Handbook' and 'A History of Sex Advice.'

Is modern life ruining our relationships?

Shopping around – are we too picky about our partners, expecting them to reflect our individual tastes and lifestyles, as if they were a trolley load of shopping or a new car?

Too busy – is the increase in working hours, 24/7 culture, new technology and globalisation putting pressure on family relationships? Or does it free us up from routine drudgery to spend more 'quality time' with our loved ones?

What are men for? – many young women no longer need or desire men as providers, a passport to a fun social life or even as fathers, thanks to modern reproductive technology, is this a liberation or curse and where does it leave men?

Till death us do part – we are living longer, healthier lives thanks to modern medicine; couples are expected to stay together far longer than in the past. Is this too much to ask?

All talk and no action – our lives are saturated with images and talk about sex. Does this raise unrealistic expectations about the quality and quantity of our own sex lives, or is our more open-minded attitude to sex something to be grateful for?

The older generation – grandparents provide essential support to many working parents but this may not be reciprocated when elderly parents are no longer able to live independently.

12.15–13.15

What's BACP really up to?

Time for you to come along and meet members of the Board of Governors and senior members of the executive team in an informal and relaxed setting. Share your thoughts, ideas and questions; ask for information and clarification on anything to do with the Association; find out more about the issues currently facing BACP and its future strategy and direction.

13.30–14.30

Membership Matters

Session to be confirmed

14.45–15.45

Relaxation session

Conference schedules can be hectic and tiring so take an opportunity to relax and revitalise before the final keynote session of the day. Full details will appear here closer to the conference and in the conference guide that will be available on the day.

Saturday 7 October:

10.45–11.45

Helen Osman, Mintel

How does depression affect our relationships – a facilitated discussion.

Are relationships in meltdown?' – do increasing numbers of people seek therapy because they have no proper relationships to fall back on when times are tough.

Is it really true that women worry about relationships and men worry about work' – are these traditional statements still true, an investigation into the causes of modern day angst?

Come along to discuss these issues and share experiences

12.00–13.00

Your board in action

If you have ever wondered what actually happens at the Board of Governors’ meetings – then this is your chance to find out! You may have considered putting yourself forward for election to the Board; taking part in this ‘simulated’ Board meeting will give you some insight into the way the Board operates and a flavour of the skills necessary in a Governor.

13.15–14.15

Membership Matters

Session to be confirmed

14.30–15.30

Relaxation Session

Conference schedules can be hectic and tiring so take an opportunity to relax and revitalise before the final keynote session of the day. Full details will appear on the website closer to the conference and in the conference guide.

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