Parent Articles

2009 Conference - A Weekend at the Hilton

A month ago, Ruby and I attended our first weekend away at the Portage conference in Northamptonshire. I had looked forward to this event for over six months. I was asked to go along as a parent representative of Birmingham Early Support team along with two other parent representatives.

Having carefully read through the conference pack the day before, I was really excited at attending this big event. I was also looking forward to spending some quality time with Ruby on a one to one level as, since the birth of her younger sister Connie, this had not happened as much as much as I would have liked.

I was amazed at the meticulous planning that had gone into the Portage weekend. I was comforted by the friendly Portage workers who greeted us on our late arrival and who saw to our every need over the two days. Ruby is a very active four and half year old and keeping up with her, on a positive note, keeps me fit. During the course of the weekend Ruby loved exploring her new environment and whenever she was out of my sight, she was retrieved by an understanding Portage worker with a smile.

Attending the structured workshops on offer really inspired me on a personal level as well as empowering me to be a better parent for Ruby in the future. It was great meeting other parents of disabled children and reminded me how special we all are. The conference simulated the kind of inclusive world I hope Ruby will grow up in. This was endorsed by the wonderful attitude of the Hilton staff, where it was obvious they were there to meet our every need.

The Creche facilities were superb and Ruby had a lot of fun as well as hugs. Initially, I did not think I could utilise the babysitting services, however, I soon changed my mind on arrival once I saw the staff and gained confidence in the conference set up. (In fact I went out two nights leaving Ruby fast asleep knowing the sitters were close by).

There were many highlights for me during this weekend, such as:

• Attending Rob Long's workshop
• Meeting other parents of disabled children
• Ruby and I felt really special and well cared for
• Professionalism of the Portage staff
• The location of the Conference
• The Portage Weekend DVD (I must remember to buy one)
• Meeting the Portage workers from Peterborough who encouraged me to attend the evening meal and join their table, otherwise I would have remained in my room with Ruby.
• Seeing Parents of disabled children relax and having fun at the Evening/disco meal is something I will not forget.
• Observing the daddies getting to know each other and smiling.
• I have never experienced such camaraderie in an organisation and it made me want to get more involved.
• I returned home to my family feeling invigorated and happy

Leaving the conference made me feel sad as I truly felt I had met some wonderful professionals and children/families. I have to be honest and admit that having qualified as a social worker in 1996, I used to refer families on to the Portage schemes ( I never envisaged I would use the service one day) however, I feel on reflection I had little understanding of how invaluable the Portage workers are to children and their families.

This weekend has a new recruit who will be singing Portage praises whenever I get the opportunity and I would love to get more involved with Portage in the future.

Marcia Squire-Wood, Ruby Squire-Wood