NWR conference 2022

An all-consuming conference

It’s springtime, and once again planning for the national conference is underway, writes Elaine Kilroy.

The theme this year is Insatiable Consumption, the location is Newcastle upon Tyne and the dates are 2–4 September. Planning is still in the early stages but we do have a few details with which to tempt you!

As well as keynote speakers there will be workshops to complement the main conference on Saturday. One of our speakers will be Lucy Adlington, an author, presenter and clothes historian who likes exploring vintage fairs, flea markets and car boot sales, looking for historical treasures. She writes both history-inspired fiction and fascinating social history books.

Want to try making a piece of art from everyday items that we throw away? Or sing songs about ecology or the environment? Take part in a charity clothes fashion show? These are some of the ideas we’re exploring for our workshops.

We’re also planning wraparound events to help you get the most from your weekend, and the local area. Newcastle city centre is compact, but it is bustling, vibrant and full of fascinating history. There’s sure to be something for everyone in this city of theatres, museums, nightlife and two amazing universities—and there’s lots of shopping!

Our venue is in the heart of the city centre at Northumbria University. We will be using the facilities offered by the Business and Law Schools. This is a modern, state of the art building within easy walking distance of the city centre, and close to the metro station, which allows easy access to the East Coast Main Line and thence the rest of the UK.

Accommodation will be available in purpose-built student flats in New Bridge Street, a twominute walk from the Business and Law Schools. Each flat has between four and seven en-suite bedrooms which share an open plan kitchen/living area. There is also a newly refurbished common room in the main reception area. Breakfast will be available in the café in the venue’s foyer, or there are plenty of nearby cafés and restaurants.

If you prefer to stay in a hotel, bed and breakfast or Airbnb, there is plenty to choose from in Newcastle city centre, from the luxurious Malmaison on the Quayside to Premier Inns and Travelodges; something to suit everyone. Many are within walking distance of the venue, or close to a metro station.

So save the date! Booking information will be with you as soon as we have made final arrangements. Watch this space!

Photo by Andy Kelly on Unsplash

Our own correspondents

Lifesaver

NWR correspondence magazines are looking for members

NWR correspondence magazines have been in existence for many years. They provide an opportunity for members to write to others in a small group.

The only commitment is to send a letter every month. It doesn’t have to be written on a computer nor does it have to be very long. It’s more important that you enjoy getting to know the group using the written word.

If you would prefer to stay in touch by email there are also groups that send messages in that way.

We are looking forward to adding new members to our groups. If you are interested, please contact the office who will put you in touch with me so I can add you to a group.

Here’s what two members have to say about the experience: Marion Turner NWR correspondence and e-groups organiser

A friendly and social diary

I really enjoy being part of the correspondence magazine: it is so interesting to gradually get to know people you would never otherwise meet—to hear about all their varied interests, join in discussions, receive book recommendations, favourite recipes, friendly advice if I have asked for it. It can be really valuable to gain another opinion, unconnected with your own life, from a friendly and sympathetic person.

And, when I look back over past contributions, I find that lots of things I have forgotten come back really vividly—a sort of friendly and social diary.

Photo by Lucas George Wendt on Unsplash

Since the 70s, when I was deep in childcare with two toddlers and a job, I have been a member of NWR. Due to my circumstances, it was difficult to go to meetings and someone suggested joining a correspondence magazine. That was a lifesaver. Once a month a large envelope would drop in the letterbox with seven or eight letters inside discussing various subjects. Although we did not meet, I came to recognise people by their handwriting. We have lost that a bit as we type our letters now.

In the 80s I joined a second magazine of which I am still a member.

Confidentiality, also from our husbands, was a big point, so that we could freely discuss our private thoughts on any subject. And as we lived so far apart, we were not likely to meet each other’s friends unless arranged.

Now we can connect instantly with people all over the world, but I still find it therapeutic to write in discussion. More considered replies or opinions for the next issue are often ready early. So, I always look out for the large envelope once a month.