CAPS Independent Advocacy are delighted to announce that the Understanding Oor Mad History course will be returning in January 2026!
After the success of our first course in February this year, the Oor Mad History project at CAPS Independent Advocacy is holding another free five-week community Mad Studies course of learning, discussion and community building based in the University of Edinburgh.
The course will lead participants through five weeks focusing on different topics relating to madness, mad history, activism and advocacy. We will also connect and learn from each other through discussion questions and interactive group work.
Who it’s for?
People with experience of mental health issues.
Structure
Week 1: 27th January, 10am-3.30pm: Introduction: What is Oor Mad History
Week 2: 3rd February, 10am-3.30pm: The History of Confinement and Treatments
Week 3: 10th February, 10am-3.30pm: Madness, Gender, Sexuality and Intersectionality
Week 4: 17th February, 10am-3.30pm: Activism Then and Now
Week 5: 24th February, 1.30pm-4.30pm: Arts as Advocacy
A certificate from CAPS will be available upon completion of the five weeks. Participating students will get a pass to access the University of Edinburgh Library, and will work with unique collections from Lothian Health Services Archive.
We ask that you please make sure you are able to try attend every session.
Feedback from past participants
“It was a warm, inclusive course that I would recommend as a whole.”
“Some of my best learnings and memories.”
“I learned more about myself from hearing from people who had similar experiences.”
What the course facilitator, Azra, has to say
“Exploring and exposing Mad History is a powerful tool for reclaiming and projecting the voices and experiences of so many who have been silenced and stigmatised in society. By connecting our experiences, sharing knowledge, inviting discussion and building community, we can inspire change and tread new grounds of social justice.”
How do I get a place on the course?
If you want to join, then please book via Eventbrite using the button below, and then send a message to azra@capsadvocacy.org with a little bit about yourself and why you want to come on the course. Azra will then reply and confirm your place.
Or if you wish to book by email, or have any questions, please also contact azra@capsadvocacy.org