BAPAM: Build Healthy Relationships and Boundaries

About the event

The Musicians' Union has partnered with the British Association for Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) to offer a series of free lunchtime online workshops designed for professional musicians.

Led by Heather Turkington, these interactive sessions explore some of the most common challenges musicians face throughout their careers. You'll gain practical, evidence-based strategies to support your mental wellbeing, build resilience, recognise when you might need additional support and develop healthy habits that can help you thrive both on and off the stage.

The sessions are free for MU members with priority given to members based in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Members from other regions who would like to attend are welcome to register their interest by contacting the Scotland & Northern Ireland Regional Office. To register for a session, please email sni@themu.org.

Whether you're at the start of your career or have years of experience, these sessions offer practical advice and space for reflection in a supportive, musician-focused environment. We encourage members to attend as many sessions as possible to build a toolkit of strategies that can support both your wellbeing and your career. View the full MU x BAPAM event series.

What to expect

Healthy relationships are essential to a sustainable career. This practical session explores how setting clear boundaries can improve communication, reduce stress and support your wellbeing in both your professional and personal life.

It will explore:

• Different types of boundaries and why they matter.
• Practical techniques for maintaining healthy working relationships.
• Active listening and effective communication.
• Managing conflict and navigating the emotions of others.
• Reflective exercises to help identify and strengthen your own boundaries

About the trainer

Heather Turkington is a Dramatherapist based in Co. Armagh in Northern Ireland. Heather’s work sees her specialising in complex trauma and holds post as Psychological Trauma Therapist in the NHS, working with people experiencing PTSD.  She also works privately and freelance in both therapeutic and organisational roles. In her spare time she is an actor and musician.

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