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The Association for the Development of the Person Centered Approach.

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Reply to Joe Hochberg’s Letter

Irene Fairhurst.

( Printed In Renaissance 15 Feb 1998)

Dear Joe,

I feel I need to respond to your letter which mentioned the Sheffield conference (10 Years On). It was not organised by BAPCA, but by the Institute for Person-Centred Learning (IPCL) with the Counselling Service at Sheffield University. I do feel a certain shame at the lack of availability in the UK of conference meeting places with modern facilities for people with disabilities. There are such places, but at prohibitive prices and I regret that Sheffield University has no campus with such amenities. I want to put the record straight. As you are aware, there were microphones available, which were used during the three presentations. I do not know why the community decided not to use them, as I could not attend, due to other responsibilities. I would also like to add that a participant with impaired hearing had contacted us well in advance and we had been able to borrow a personal loop system for her which helped to a limited degree. A signer was provided to enable two profoundly deaf counsellors to participate on the days they had selected. I do agree with you that facilities were not good, which was partly my responsibility, but I do not want ADPCA members to have the impression that thought had not been given to these issues and we did our best! I should also like to say how much we appreciated your travelling to be with us for this conference and hope your trip was worthwhile, despite your negative experiences.

Best wishes

Irene Fairhurst.