University of Gloucestershire to host prestigious conference

University of Gloucestershire is set to host a prestigious conference that will bring together experts from across the globe to explore themes related to health and wellbeing.

The Sound, Nature, and Wellbeing in Ageing conference will explore how sound and nature can enhance wellbeing in older adults and those receiving care.

Held at Park Campus in Cheltenham, researchers and practitioners who have expertise in different aspects of sound, nature and wellbeing in ageing will travel from around the world to deliver guest talks.

Organised by Abigail Gardener, Professor of Cultural Studies at University of Gloucestershire, the conference will hear from a number of UoG experts: Dr Alice Goodenough, Research Fellow in Treescapes from the Countryside and Community Research Institute (CCRI); Dr Philip Reeder, Senior Lecturer in Sound and Music Production; and Dr Stephen Tatlow, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow.

Funded by the British Academy, and in partnership with Wellcome Trust, the conference will feature Alex Coutler, Director of the National Centre for Creative Health, delivering the keynote, as well as talks from practitioners who are developing research in the area of sound, nature and wellbeing in ageing from countries including Australia, Austria, Germany and the USA.

Professor Angus Pryor, Executive Dean for Research and Head of School for the School of Creative Arts, said: “It is an honour to have been granted this opportunity from the British Academy to run the Sound, Nature, and Wellbeing in Ageing conference at University of Gloucestershire.

“The conference will enable guests to gain important research insights about the influence sound and nature has on wellbeing in ageing from experts around the globe, including UoG academics who have been producing trailblazing research in this area.

“My thanks go to Professor Abigail Gardener and the team for all their hard work in pulling this together.”

The conference comes as University of Gloucestershire is opening its new City Campus, which includes an Arts, Health and Wellbeing Centre, providing a focal point for creative health interventions in the county.

The conference will take place on 11-12 September from 9am-5pm and is free to attend. Tickets must be booked in advance, which can be reserved here.