Health & Wellbeing for Polio Survivors — Conference Day 2026
Join us for a brand-new British Polio Fellowship Conference Day focused on wellbeing for polio survivors.
This one-day event brings together polio survivors, carers, and professionals for a day of learning, discussion, and connection. It has been developed in response to feedback from members who told us they would value more opportunities like this — to meet in person, share experiences, and explore practical ways to support health and wellbeing after polio.
This conference is being run as a pilot event. If successful, it will help shape how the Fellowship develops similar events in the future, including potential regional roll-out.
Key details
- Date: Saturday 4 July 2026
- Time: 9:00am – 4:30pm (approx.)
- Venue: DoubleTree by Hilton London Elstree
- Cost: Free to attend for British Polio Fellowship members
Who can attend:
- Polio survivors
- Carers and partners (may attend as plus-ones)
- Relatives and other interested parties
Not a member? You’re welcome to attend — we encourage you to become a member to access this and future events.
What to expect
The day will focus on topics that matter most to polio survivors and those who support them, including physical health, emotional wellbeing, fatigue, and practical adaptations for everyday living.
The programme will include keynote sessions, breakout discussions, lived experience stories, and a panel conversation looking at the future of services for polio survivors. There will also be time to network, speak with others who understand life after polio, and visit information stands from relevant organisations.
The venue is fully accessible, and we aim to make the day as welcoming and inclusive as possible.
Programme
Please note: session topics and timings may change as speakers are confirmed.
09:00 – 09:30
Registration & refreshments
09:30 – 09:40
Welcome & introduction
09:40 – 10:30
Keynote session: The Optimal Clinical Pathway
10:30 – 10:45
Refreshment break
10:45 – 11:15
Lived experience: member case studies
11:30 – 12:15
Breakout session block 1
12:15 – 13:15
Buffet lunch & networking
13:30 – 14:15
Breakout session block 2
14:15 – 14:30
Comfort break
14:30 – 15:15
Discussion: The future of services for polio survivors — what needs to change?
15:15 – 15:30
Closing remarks
15:30 – 16:30
Informal networking & close
Breakout Sessions
Breakout session block 1 (choose one):
- Meditation and emotional wellbeing for polio survivors
- Talking to your doctor about polio
Breakout session block 2 (choose one):
- Sleep, fatigue & energy conservation
- Adapting your home for safety & comfort
Registration
Registration is now open.
Please complete the form below to register your place. This helps us plan numbers, accessibility support, catering, and breakout room capacity.
Places are limited and we encourage early registration.