Counselling in Prisons Network Conference 2026

Welcome to the Counselling in Prisons Network Conference 2026!

Join us at Stranmillis University College, Belfast, on 8th and 9th July 2026 for a relaxed and insightful two-day conference exploring therapeutic services within the Pr*son system across the UK and the island of Ireland.

Bringing together speakers and practitioners from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, the conference will highlight the range of therapeutic supports available across custodial and community settings. Through keynote talks and interactive workshops, we will explore current approaches to therapy, support services, and community-based interventions, creating space for learning, reflection, and meaningful cross-border collaboration.

It’s a great chance to connect with others, share ideas, and discover new approaches in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a professional or just curious, this event is for you.

Key note speakers:

Naoimi Long - Minister of Justice

Dr Rhona Morrison - Retired Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist, Artist, award winning author and professional speaker from Scotland. With over 30 years experience working with mentally disordered offenders.

Dr Richard Bunn - Consultant Psychiatrist for BHSCT and SEHSCT. Dr Bunn graduated from Queen’s University Belfast in 1997. He gained postgraduate qualifications in Child Health and Obstetrics & Gynaecology along with specialist training in Addictions and Forensic Psychiatry. He has been practising as a Consultant in Forensic Psychiatry since 2006.

Robyn McVeigh (PBNI) - Area Manager.

Erick Oduor - Bereavement support

Trish Cathcart - Addiction and Trauma Start360

Rev. Graham Stockdale - Chaplaincy

Sarah Curran - RelateNI Clinical Lead

Jay Bobinac - CEO of Release, a not for profit organisation focused on restorative justice and supporting individuals with convictions.

Sadhana Mahade - Student Psychologist

Pr*son Psychology

NIPS staff

Workshops will be updated soon!

Ticket Price includes tea and coffee on arrival, and light lunch.

Early Bird Ticket - get 20% off any ticket if booked before 30th April 2026. Use Promo Code EARLYBIRD at checkout!

General Admission for 2 day attendance at conference - £110

Wednesday attendance only - Use Promo Code DAY1 at checkout - £55

Thursday attendance only - Use Promo Code DAY2 at checkout - £55

This conference has been organised by Counselling in Prisons Network UK

Support for Pr*son Therapists | Counselling in Prisons Network

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Please note - Accomodation on Stranmillis Campus is available during the conference but not included in ticket price. Bed and breakfast on campus is £70 (81 Euros) per night, paid at least 4 weeks in advance. For more information or to book accommodation, please contact Jill - [email protected]

Delegates are welcome to come together for an evening meal in a local restaurant on Day One of the conference, however this is also not included in ticket price and must be booked separately. If you would like to join us for dinner, please contact Erick for more information - [email protected]

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Host or Publisher Jill Gordon