Workshop 2

Trauma: Understanding our tricky brain and how it uses our past experiences to inform our present

An introduction to how the human brain has evolved—and why it sometimes works against us.
The three key emotion systems: Threat, Drive, and Soothe—and how they interact to shape our thoughts and feelings.
How early life experiences influence our self-perception and emotional responses.
Understanding the “inner critic” and why we often speak to ourselves more harshly than we would to anyone else.
How self-compassion can quiet that inner critic and support your well-being.
To start to apply this model to the people we support 

Workshop 2

Informing inclusive approaches to health protection

TBC

Workshop 2

Sex Workers: Barriers and Facilitators to Accessing Sexual Health

This presentation outlines a partnership between Locala Sexual Health and the Lotus Project to reduce health inequalities among sex workers, who face increased sexual health needs and barriers to care including stigma, discrimination, housing instability, substance use, and mistrust of services.

It uses a flexible outreach model—home visits, drop-ins, fast-tracked clinic access, and an evening mobile clinic in the red-light district—supported by an engagement worker to build trust and continuity of care.

The initiative shows how targeted, adaptable outreach and partnership working can improve access, engagement, and outcomes while supporting sexual health, safety, and autonomy.

Workshop 2

The rise of Synthetic Substances

Join an engaging and informative panel discussion exploring the growing impact, risks, regulation, and future of synthetic substances across health, science, industry, and the criminal justice sector. This workshop brings together a diverse panel of experts who will share insights from their respective fields, offering attendees a well-rounded understanding of current trends, challenges, and emerging developments.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear expert perspectives, engage in meaningful dialogue, and take part in an interactive question-and-answer session designed to encourage discussion and audience participation. Whether you are a professional, student, researcher, or community member interested in the topic, this workshop provides a valuable space for learning, collaboration, and informed conversation.