What is self care in campaigning?
Self care in campaigning is how we deal with difficult social issues and personal stories on a daily basis. It can be tough as working in a hostile policy environment where change is hard and contested, so it is essential for our own mental health, and for the needs of those we campaign for and with, that we build resilience and take care of ourselves.
Why is self care important in campaigning?
Campaigning is challenging and it takes its toll on all of us. Self-care is in itself a form of activism. Paying attention to our struggles, finding spaces to share, and learning strategies to maintain resilience is all part of the process.
What do I need to know to prevent burnout during a campaign?
To prevent burnout and take care of yourself during a campaign, you’ll need to:
- Learn tips and tools for self-care for campaigners
- Gain an understanding of your rights in the areas of mental health and wellbeing in a challenging workplace
- Hear how peers maintain resilience and energy in their campaigning work
- Develop plans for your own resilience, campaigning burnout prevention, and self-care for campaigners
In SMK’s Resilient Campaigner workshop, you’ll do exactly that.
Please note that this workshop has participatory elements. If you are unable to participate for any reason or in a specific manner (e.g. speaking, camera on, chat function, breakout rooms, etc.), please put that in the “Accessibility Requirements” section during checkout, and remind your facilitator at the beginning of the session.
Workshop dates
Wed 21st Oct 2026, 10am-1pm
Tues 23rd Feb 2027, 2-5pm
The Campaign Carousel runs on a progressive pricing model.
- Small orgs: turnover of £10k-£100k = £850 + VAT
- Med orgs: turnover of £100k-£1M = £1250 + VAT
- Large orgs: (tier 1) turnover of £1M-£10M = £1950 + VAT
- Large orgs: (tier 2) turnover of £10M+ = £2250 + VAT
Individuals not affiliated to an organisation pay the ‘small orgs’ fee.
*There is also the option to purchase an hour’s mentoring session with one of our expert Associates for £250 plus VAT
If you would like to speak to someone further, please email megan.poyiadzis@smk.org.uk
Campaign Carousel start dates
Jan 2026
Apr 2026
Sept 2026
Jan 2027
Campaign Carousel start dates
Jan 2026
Apr 2026
Sept 2026
Jan 2027
Jo Martyn
SMK Associate
This workshop is led by SMK Associate Jo Martyn.
Jo is a Learning and Development Practitioner. She runs Luminous Learning, and is an associate for Bird Resilience Limited, both of which exist to support the voluntary sector’s learning and development. Jo specialises in management and leadership; mental health and wellbeing; and equality, diversity and inclusion. Jo also loves walking, and is passionate about the benefits that it brings to mental and physical health.
What participants say:
Jennifer Laws
Campaigns Manager, North East Asylum Matters
‘Thank you for a really useful, thought-provoking and collaborative session.’’
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