Hi Adam, The Blackpool forum as it has become known, is a forum of people that got together in February this year for the first time. They all are involved in some way with running medical equipment libraries. Some have just started out, some have been in operation for many years. All wanted to meet in real life to discuss, share and debate issues and best practice. I offered to host and launch the forum, and the popular vote was to meet again on an annual basis. We are meeting again on the 26th September 2008 - it will then be held every year in September so that people who travel from afar can also enjoy the illuminations! Last time we began networking and looked at what issues could be useful for discussion. This time the theme looks like infection control and issues surrounding medical equipment. The format will be largely workshop/ discussion with some presentation in the morning to kick things off. We had upwards of 46 people last time - I am hoping for the same if not more this time round. The venue is Blackpool Hospital in our Health Professionals Education Centre - a large lecture theatre is available as well as a refreshments area with lunch, coffee and room for networking and socialising. We will be running from 9am till 4pm. If anyone is interested in attending please let me know so that I have numbers for catering - there is no cost! All welcome!
