Centerparcs Family Weekend
Cochlear implant recipients and their families from all around
the UK descended upon Sherwood Forest, Nottingham last month to
participate in the Ear Foundation's 18th Family Weekend
at Centre Parcs. Jointly organised by The Ear Foundation and
Cochlear Europe, this annual event is a great way for families with
hearing implants to meet, socialise and support each other in an
informal and relaxing setting - whilst getting updates on the
latest technology and talks from leading minds in the field of
hearing impairment
The event kicked off on Friday 12th March and was
packed with entertainment and information until its close on Monday
15th March. As well as the wide range of sports and
leisure activities already on offer at Centre Parcs, there was a
conference for adults, a crèche for young children and a number of
games and challenges to keep young people engaged and entertained,
including a treasure hunt.
Friday evening's talent competition was a particular hit with
attendees young and old. Winning performances included a rap,
a magic performance and lots of singing and dancing.
The Saturday conference featured world-renowned expert on
counselling and deafness, Dr. David Luterman. David's keynote
presentation emphasised the importance of supporting the parents
and families of implanted children - sentiments which fit in
perfectly with the aims of the Family Weekend.
David said:
"This event is one of the best uses of corporate funds. Parents
of deaf children often become isolated from one another,
particularly if their kids go to mainstream schools. This event is
a great example of people coming together and sharing experiences -
it's creating that community which is what parents and deaf
children need. One boy walked in and his eyes lit up - he said
'there are boys like me here.' That's what this event is all
about."
A technology update by Cochlear ensured that all attendees got
information about the latest developments and innovations available
to them - in line with Cochlear's mission to provide a lifelong
commitment to recipients. The day also offered an opportunity for
families to give personal feedback directly to Cochlear, as staff
were on-hand to answer questions and queries throughout the
day.
Sue Archbold, Chief Executive, co-founder of the Ear Foundation
and the brains behind the event said:
"This is our18th Centre Parcs Family Weekend and it's
the biggest and best so far. One parent said to me that they
had got more support in half an hour here than in the last four
years. But even though parental feedback has always been excellent,
it is the families themselves who make the event what it is."
The Centre Parcs Family Weekend will be running again next year.
Look out for notices in future issues of Drum Magazine or on the
Cochlear and The Ear Foundation websites.
To find out more about other Ear Foundation events or to book a
place, please visit: www.earfoundation.org.uk/news/events