APP Media Engagement Training
The workshop is run by Action on Postpartum Psychosis, in collaboration with The University of Birmingham and the University of Cardiff, for women who have experienced Postpartum Psychosis.
Engaging with the media can be a good way of raising awareness about Postpartum Psychosis and getting information out to health professionals and the general public. However, deciding to talk openly about PP requires careful consideration. During the workshop, we’ll hear from women who have shared their stories, whether in a magazine, newspaper or on the radio; hear how they felt it went, and discuss the issues to consider when engaging with the media. Producers and journalists will tell us about their motivations, how they approach stories and what makes things work for their outlets. We’ll learn about ways of preparing for interview, the art of ‘story telling’ and building confidence, and we’ll discuss any anxieties people have about dealing with the media. We’ll have an update on the latest facts and research about PP, and start to develop APP’s media strategy for raising awareness of PP.
For those who wish to, there will be a chance to practice being interviewed for broadcast and for print, with individual feedback from professionals. Over the 2 days we will develop audio and video podcasts for the APP website on a range of topics determined by you. Aside from the ‘work’ part of the workshop, it will be a good chance to get to know more about APP and meet other APP members. The workshop will be informal, friendly and low stress – no role playing or audiences to watch you have a go!
When: The course will take place over 2 days on Friday 19th (11am – 5.30pm) and Saturday 20th October (9.30am – 3.30pm).
Where: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston campus, Birmingham.
Who: A group of 8 women who have all experienced PP and expressed an interest in helping to increase media coverage of PP and developing resources to raise awareness of PP. The workshop is being organised by Dr Jessica Heron (Vice Chair - Action on Postpartum Psychosis; Perinatal Research Fellow - University of Birmingham) and Lucy Vernall (Media Coordinator - Action on Postpartum Psychosis; IdeasLab Project Director, University of Birmingham).
Funding: The workshop is funded by the Big Lottery. We are able to cover participant’s travel expenses, accommodation on Friday night, meals, and other costs necessary to attend the course (such as childcare).
Accommodation: Friday night’s accommodation will be in University of Birmingham Conference Facilities
Contact: If you would like further details about taking part in the workshop, please contact Jessica Heron: j.c.heron@bham.ac.uk