Take Part

If you like twitter, and graphs - check this out! http://archivist.visitmix.com/dosticen/1

We asked participants at the event how they wanted to keep networking and supporting each other, bearing in mind that there is no longer funding or staff in place. The responses call for a blend of four things.

• Online networking - suggestions included twitter, facebook, and online forums
• Events/get togethers - from annual events, to meet ups in a cafe
• Email networking/share contact lists and a bit of information about people
• Through existing networks - link in and suport

We have asked changes to set up groups on their networking site for participants of our learning programmes to keep networking and sharing stories. We can circulate contact lists where individuals have provided organisational email addresses etc. We strongly encourage involvement in existing networks, and we will leave it up to people who want to meet to organise to meet. If it is posssible in the future to host events we will be sure to invite everyone!

We asked: What has inspired you at today’s event? Here's what people said:

People – their stories, achievements and enthusiasm

Volunteers who have achieved so much
Other people….some really fantastic stories
People sharing their experiences.  I will feedback to my organisation
Nusrat - Washwood Heath Community College – really inspired me and gave me hope for the future
Some people are so inspiring
Meeting loads of fabulous and inspiring people
The enthusiasm of everyone, on and involved with Take Part
The best part of Take Part?  The people who took part
Interesting day and positive to hear the amazing stories and huge outcomes
The friendly people and experiences.  I have learnt loads from talking to participants

Our journeys, collective learning and collaborative working

I am so glad to have been involved in this movement.  I intend to keep this moving and nurture my knowledge to grow!
It’s all about partnerships…idea pooling…making changes
I was able to take and share the knowledge with other women in the community
Thank you a million for all who held my hand on the journey!
Feel’s like I have come to a family reunion today – but there are still lots of family members who are missing – only they don’t know yet!
A wonderful day to wrap up my empowering journey!  Ready for higher heights!
Great to meet so many enthusiastic people.  Great networking opportunity and learning good practice
Been able to be open and voice my opinion working with amazing people
Consolidating ‘friendships’ ideas, enthusiasm etc
Has been a wonderful networking opportunity

Active citizens and communities

Knowing there is a wealth of activity, groups and opportunities out there
Be more active and assertive in my civic roles
Neighbourhood – elderly getting involved as a group
I need to find out more and get more involved – can I do training/help to advocate for the programmes
I will be talking to my local council about Wolverhampton City
Raising awareness and flag the confidence of women I am working with in my community
Perhaps buddying has more legs than I thought

Other responses:

It’s been such a good day.  Full of optimism hope for the future
Very inspiring , joyful day
Not just about every child matters, everyone matters
Don’t be scared to approach the people at the back of the bus!
Taking part is FAB! Bottle the results and take a market stall to give away the results
Brilliant day.  Lovely venue, lovely people, lovely staff.  Let’s keep in touch
Wow – I’ve twittered for the first time in my life and I will remember where and when it happened. I took part!!

A huge thank you to Julie Oakley, a Women Take Part participant, for these fantastic photos.