Incontact Conference 2002

Jill Mulelly brings you the low down, direct from Derby

From workshops to freebies, goodie bags to exhibition stands, the Incontact conference 2002 provided a wealth of information and resources for all interested parties. In contrast to most health conferences, topics of conversation spanned catheters and faecal leakage to more everyday deliberations over intricacies of the East Enders’ plot line. Of great importance was the fact that everything from skin care to soap operas was discussed openly, unabashedly and without lowered voices or red faces.

Refreshingly, the Incontact conference provided the opportunity for consumers, healthcare professionals and company representatives to meet, listen and learn from one another. People had the opportunity to discover that they were not alone in their problems. The solace that this realisation brought was evident.

The exhibition area enabled the delegates to peruse the latest products, discuss them with the company representatives and share ideas. In addition to hearing about the latest advances in treatments, delegates were able to take advantage of the information available from various other support charities there.

Throughout the conference, workshops were held covering a diverse range of subjects. Several were aimed at the more practical side of incontinence, for example "pads and pants for leaking urine" and "managing faecal leakage". A myriad of products and types of management were also discussed.

The workshops also reflected more complex issues surrounding bladder and bowel problems such as "emotions and relationships". In line with one of Incontact’s other priorities, workshops also addressed user involvement, support and campaigning. Joanne Chinnock, the co-ordinator for South Wales Support Group, led a very informative workshop entitled "Making sure your voice is heard". This not only documented her own involvement with Incontact but it also offered insight and practical advice for others wishing to become involved.

Once the exhibition had been exhausted and the workshops ended, the conference closed with past reflections, current reviews and future ambitions. Delegates were informed of the various resignations and appointments, and in particular people were saddened by the news that Colin McLean was leaving Incontact, after 13 years, to pursue his dancing career. Spirits were lifted by his emotive and heart felt speech which left everyone feeling positive and ambitious about the future. His final words "Don’t get mad, get everything" struck a chord in everyone.