Jam-Packed Socials at Congress

RCPsych International Congress 2019 has a full on programme of educational & thought-provoking presentations running over four, 10 hour days. You would have thought that was enough, right?

But no. The College has also managed to squeeze in a jam-packed social events programme - many parts of which are free to attend. Follow me on Twitter @lydia_clare and Instagram @yorkshire_doc as I immerse myself...

Even before Day 1

Starting with a Welcome Reception for international delegates on Sunday evening where chair Wendy Burn greeted colleagues from 58 different countries. 

Day 1

Day one of Congress closed with a drinks reception where the wine & beer was flowing - & there was a lot to talk about given the guest appearance from none other than TV presenter Louis Theroux! 

Day 2

For the energetic amongst us, Day two gets off to an early start with a “gentle” 5k fun run.

For the less energetic, myself included, there is a morning yoga session with Heather Mason. 

I will be dashing off at the end of Day two’s proceedings & heading to the student & trainee dinner at the quirky & super cool Old Brewery.

I will then no doubt need the cobwebs clearing on day three, so I plan to engage in some early morning mindfulness with Florian Alexander Ruth as well as stretching my legs with a group walk over lunch time. 

Day 3

It doesn’t stop there. After all the wonderful brain fodder at Congress we will need time to reflect. Cue Dympna Cunnane who will be leading a group session on Reflection at the end of day three.

Wednesday evening also sees the prestigious Gala Dinner taking place at the Cutty Sark.

This should be an absolute show stopper of an evening! And, because as a College we recognise the importance of physical activity, there is a group walk from the Excel to the dinner to take in some of the sights along the way. 

Day 4

To mark the start of the final day of Congress, we have Femi Oyebode leading the imaginatively titled PoeTea where we will drink tea & hear poetry readings. I’ll be honest, I may be on the double espressos by then!

What else?

In between all of these events, there are also a variety sessions designed specifically for trainees taking place in The Mess.

We get chance to grill the Chief Examiner, have a Q&A with our fantastic President & all have our say about the ePortfolio. 

All events can be found in the Congress Guide. There really is something for everyone in this line up. So get yourself signed up & I’ll see you there!