Being honest, I wasn't too sure when I read the programme for the RCSLT Scotland day on 26th August that I would particularly enjoy it, other than as an all too rare opportunity to catch up with colleagues in person. How wrong could I be! I have attended many RCSLT events over the years and – especially given the difficulties facing public services - this was one of the most inspiring and timely. I have written about it in a freely available article as an early taster for the Winter 10 issue (due out at the end of November).

It is also well worth reading keynote speaker Gerda Stevenson's story of her communication journey with daughter Galina (now 12) who has Down Syndrome. It tells us so much about the value of user involvement, being up-to-date with the evidence, and the potential of storytelling and drama in therapy.

Perhaps you know other service users who would like to share their experience with a wider audience? If so, the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists is inviting them to join its Giving Voice campaign.