Bespoke Workshops

Catholic Voices offers one-off, bespoke workshops to organisations whose aims are compatible with its aim of putting the case for the Church in the media and public square. Drawing on the experience and techniques developed during the CV project, as well as the coordinators’ many years of experience, we can design a training programme designed to help you be present in the media.

As an example, CV designed a two-day workshop for a charity wanting to have a larger media presence on a major international issue.: The organisation was challenged to find a team of 5 or 6 “spokespeople” whom the organisation trusted to speak on its behalf, and who were well briefed.

On Day 1, the CV coordinators introduced the organisation to the ways of news journalism – how it “works”, what broadcasters are looking for (and looking to avoid); the possibilities as well as the limits of broadcasting; what is a story; the way news cycles operate; and so on. Another introductory session dealt with the idea of being a ‘Catholic Voice’, and what such interventions hope to achieve. Time was spent imagining possible news scenarios on which the organisation could be invited to comment, and some principles were agreed for when to accept or refuse such invitations.  Other sessions included: negotiating terms of appearances, what a studio visit involves, tips and techniques for passing off a good interview.

Day 2 put this into practice. Each member of the team was given a radio and TV interview by real TV and radio presenters, playing each back for the group to comment on and evaluate, instilling the habit of reflecting on their  performance. At the end of Day 2 time was spent agreeing next steps for putting what was learned into practice.

To discuss a bespoke workshop, please contact the coordinators: info@catholicvoices.org.uk