Monday 21st October was an emotional day for Network. In the morning we attended a celebration of the life of Stephen Lyne, our ex-treasurer who sadly died this autumn. His home church in Frampton Cotterell was packed, with the congregation including his great friend and ex Network chief exec Nick Ruff. It was lovely to see Steve’s family and to learn more about his life in moving tributes. He was a much loved man and will be truly missed.
Then in the evening we had a different celebration – our 2024 graduation. In all, 17 students received their Advanced Certificate and 16 their Advanced Diploma in Counselling. The Diploma graduates are now fully qualified counsellors, accredited by two professional bodies – the BACP and the NCPS. It was a real joy to see students surrounded by the friends and family who have supported them along the way. It was lovely too to see so many Network staff gathered together – the tutors in particular all work different days, so rarely meet up. Sue Cater, our long-serving tutor who retired this year, gave the address, sharing some of her hard-won wisdom about counselling.
Some of our certificate graduates are already studying on Network’s diploma course. And many of the diploma graduates are just starting out in private practice. We encourage them to stay in relationship with Network – whether booking rooms, coming to CPD events or applying to work with us. Our goal is to build a strong community of counsellors who are committed to meeting the needs of our city and beyond.
Please keep Steve’s family in your thoughts and prayers – particularly his wife Jenny.
Thank you for your support,