Can a conference be a catalyst for change? It is exactly this wish that inspired the title and theme of the 2017 ISPS international congress.

Sadly this is a wish born out of frustration. Attitudes, practices and services too often seem barely touched by the steadily developing understanding of psychological and social aspects of psychosis and of what is helpful for people who experience it. So we aim for this conference to be not only about the valuable sharing of new research, ideas and developments, but also, as in the title, about making real change happen. The large number of organizations who have given their support to this conference can be seen here.

We are delighted to be meeting in the exciting city of Liverpool. Carl Jung saw it as 'the pool of life' and we hope its rich heritage (not just football and music!) will make it an energizing setting for a conference thinking about change. Information about the conference social programme, including canapes at the Cavern Club and an evening aboard the ferry ‘cross the Mersey, can be found here http://www.isps2017uk.org/registration and also take a look at these ideas for other things to do in Liverpool..

Delegates at previous international conferences have often commented on how ISPS events stand out. They point to the unique mix of opportunities not only to learn from high quality presentations, but also to join a rich dialogue between people with a wealth of experience and expertise, a fertile mix of professionals from a wide range of disciplines, and people whose experience and expertise comes through personal experience of psychosis.

ISPS conferences have also traditionally been warm and welcoming gatherings, where people go away feeling inspired and reinvigorated. We hope this one will be no exception and look forward very much to welcoming you to Liverpool in August 2017.

Alison Summers, Chair of ISPS 2017 organizing committee