As we emerge from the pandemic are you desperate for face-to-face connections, seeing old friends and acquaintances, meeting new people and being involved in intelligent discussion?

If, like us, you feel you are missing out on stimulating company then please come along on Saturday 11th June to chat, hear some short talks and participate in a discussion facilitated by Professor Phil Hanlon.

This event will be outdoors so there’s minimal risk if you are still taking Covid precautions. Some refreshments will be provided and there will be a Postcards bookstall.

The Centre for Confidence and Well-being established the Postcards from Scotland book series in 2012 in recognition of the large scale social, political and environmental changes that appeared to be inevitable. But the many huge challenges to be aced in such a short space of time could not have been predicted.

Well-being in an age of adversity is the topic discussion will focus on.

‘It’s clear to everyone that we are now living in very challenging times. The pandemic is receding but is still with us and we continue to deal with its negative effects. Now there’s a cost-of-living crisis and a brutal war in Ukraine. Everywhere we look, we see dysfunctional politics. This is acutely evident in politicians’ feeble attempts to address the climate emergency and the environmental challenges that threaten all our futures.’

‘We don’t want this to be a gloomy discussion. There are rays of hope: challenges can foster resilience and some of the changes can promote well-being. For example, as a result of Covid lockdowns, many people now appreciate the importance of nature and being outdoors.’

In recognition of the enhanced value of being outside, the event will be held in North Kelvin Meadow, home of the Children’s Wood. The creation of this community outdoors space is the focus of one of the books in the series – The Dear Wild Place. Its author, Emily Cutts, will say a few words about the project she founded and her book.

Sue Palmer who edited the latest book in the series – Play is the Way, will also speak.  ‘This is our best-selling book to date and it has already made an important contribution to current policy discussions about children’s well-being.’

Carol Craig, the commissioning editor for Postcards and author of two books in the series will also speak.  Other authors will be in attendance and contribute to what should be a lively debate.

Professor Phil Hanlon, who wrote the introductory book in the series – AfterNow – will open the discussion with his own thoughts on current challenges and then act as a facilitator.

To help us plan the event people are being asked to buy a ticket for £5*. All this ticket money will be given to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.

As the event is outdoors please dress appropriately for the weather.

*If you can’t afford this entrance fee email Centre for Confidence and a ticket will be set aside for you.