NJPN's annual conference booking opens

The focus of this year's 48th Annual NJPN Conference, taking place at The Hayes, Swanwick, Derbyshire between the 24th and the 26th July is JUST TALK.

The organisers say:

'In a world of disinformation, sound bites and echo chambers, the conference will explore how we promote genuine communication and encounter through areas such as the media, arts, education, diplomacy and political engagement led always by the Spirit of Truth.

Our aims - to increase participants understanding of how language and other forms of communication are used or misused in our current context.

and - to help participants challenge disinformation and divisive rhetoric, change narratives, foster dialogue and encounter, and speak truth to power.

In celebrating 60 years of Nostra Aetate Pope Leo XIV said the document "opened our eyes to a simple yet profound principle: dialogue is not a tactic or a tool, but it's a way of life - a journey of the heart that transforms everyone involved, the one who listens and the one who speaks."

In this current climate the need for us all to be able to communicate is more important than ever.

This year we have an excellent keynote speaker lined up, who cannot be named for the time being, but who is a major voice shaping national conversations.

We also have a wide range of Workshops all working around our theme, some of which are below...

The Information-Misinformation-Disinformation Triangle - Brian O'Toole

Young people are growing up in a world where information is shaped by social media, fast-moving news cycles, algorithms, and increasingly by artificial intelligence.

Brian O'Toole will be leading an in-person NJPN workshop, creating a supportive space for participants to explore how information, misinformation, and disinformation spreads online, and how these forces influence people's understanding of truth. Participants will discuss real-world examples, question digital content, and examine the role of algorithms and AI in shaping what we see and share online - including who may be exploiting social media and for what purposes. Through open conversation and guided reflection, the session aims to strengthen critical thinking, digital awareness, and a shared sense of responsibility as we navigate today's complex and rapidly changing information landscape.

Resilience and Dialogue in Conflict Zones - Azad Hasan

Azad Hasan is currently Project Coordinator at the Justice and Peace Refugee Project in Newcastle. He is also a PhD candidate at Durham University, School of Government and International Affairs. His research focuses on rebel governance, civilian agency, and everyday life in violent conflict. Prior to his doctoral studies, Azad worked in humanitarian roles within refugee camps and as a freelance journalist in conflict-affected regions.

His scholarly and professional interests centre on how civilians navigate protracted conflicts and demonstrate resilience in their everyday lives. Drawing on his fieldwork, in this workshop Azad will share some of his experience with us with particular focus on authentic dialogue in everyday life.

Deaf Awareness - Peter McDonagh, Joselyn Taylor

How do we make our church communities accessible for those who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing? How do we ensure that they also have opportunities for full inclusion in church?

This workshop, run by the Catholic Deaf Association https://catholicdeaf.org.uk/ will give training in Deaf awareness and on communication strategies to improve access to church community especially for those for whom BSL is their first and /or preferred language.

There will be BSL Interpreters at the Conference on Friday and Saturday.

Having difficult conversations - Fay Pretty

Fay Pretty from PeaceJam UK https://peacejam.org.uk/ will lead an interactive workshop which explores how can we encourage young people to have those difficult conversations about diversity, tolerance, social justice, conflict, and non-violence.

This practical workshop will explore Peace Jam's education programmes and teacher-friendly resources which draw on the lives of the Nobel Peace Laureates as positive role models for our children and teenagers.

From access to action: poverty and participation- Liam Purcell

Our churches are at the forefront of social action to respond to the growing scandal of poverty in the UK. But too often, churches treat people in poverty as passive recipients of charity. If we respect the dignity and agency of every person, and stand alongside people in solidarity, we can do much more to tackle the injustices that are at the root of poverty.

Hear about 'Sharing Power to Shape Mission' - a Church Action on Poverty programme which enabled dialogue and relationships between church leaders and church members who have direct experience of poverty. We'll share skills and approaches that can help church projects to ensure everyone is heard and has a chance to take part.

The workshop will be led by Liam Purcell, Chief Executive of Church Action on Poverty www.church-poverty.org.uk

Language and Racism - Margaret-Ann Fisken

This workshop examines the role language plays in naming, normalising, and challenging racism.

Together we will explore common terms, phrases, and narratives-both secular and church-based-and how they can unintentionally reinforce racial injustice. Grounded in a Christian commitment to truth and love of neighbour, the session will offer practical tools for speaking about race with greater clarity, humility, and faithfulness.

Interfaith dialogue - for justice and peace - Barbara Butler

This workshop will present interfaith dialogue as a necessary contribution towards the creation of understanding and peace between people of the world faiths in the UK and around the world. The workshop will enable participants to explore how to engage with people of other faiths and beliefs, to listen to other world views than their own and to share. There will be examples of good practice and a power point presentation.

As is usual, we ask you to share details with your friends, family, faith groups and anyone else that you feel would be interested in attending. We will have a number of reduced places for those on low incomes, and there will be some bursaries to help young people to come. Details available from: admin@justice-and-peace.org.uk. '

For the Booking Form and more details see: www.justice-and-peace.org.uk/conference/