The TTT Programme of Events   

The putting together of each new Programme of Events is organised by the admin staff in the TTT office. About 2 months before each programme comes out we hold a meeting for anyone involved in TTT to attend, asking people from the various groups to come forward with any plans for events that they may have. After moving these about to spread across the 3 month programme we then book venues, shuffle dates, and liaise with the different event coordinators regarding all the details, and eventually after many amendments, it goes to print.

Sometimes groups may be busy working on projects of their own, and not want to focus on organising a particular event well ahead of time in the calendar. But often there are films, talks, courses, activity days, or discussion evenings that come forward, both from individuals involved or from TTT groups, that galvanise a new group to form, of deepen our understanding of the issues and how we can take action in Totnes.

The last two programmes have been gradually moving away from featuring mostly talks by experts, to prioritising activities and practical projects that arise from the working groups. We are trying to get as many events like this coming to the fore, hoping that by enabling groups to plan and take responsibility for most of the events on each programme, it will be a direct reflection of the interests and passions of the groups involved, and need little central support to function, building more resilience into the process.

We are always open to new ideas for events, and groups are encouraged to put on any events they would like – be it work days, workshops, talks, or meetings to move a particular project forward.

We can offer some support when it comes to planning events, and advice / help with booking venues / posters / publicity, etc. but we do try and get the groups to take as much of the ‘holding’ of the event on as possible – both to maximise their sense of ownership and direction for the event, and to try and minimise the load that falls to the very hectic TTT office.

The planning meeting for the next Programme of Events – (that will run September- December 08) - will be held at the end of June – so do talk in your groups about ideas you would like to put on the programme.

Lou Brown