Community

Hey Nestlings!

You’ve seen a lot of communications this year about event dates. Maybe you’ve voted in surveys, written comments, contributed to conversations… Ultimately the decision was made to shift the dates to the half-term holiday for 2025 and revert back in 2026 to the way we have been doing things, and then reassess for future years. 

In this piece, we want to bring you in behind-the-scenes, and share with you the process of how this decision came to be. You might learn something about how the Burning Nest sausage gets made! You may even be inspired to join the organising team yourself. 

The Background

The last two years, Burning Nest has run so that Strike Monday (i.e the end of the event) falls on the late May bank holiday. However, this is ever-so-slightly out of kilter with the half-term break that usually starts on that same bank holiday. In 2018 and 2022, the event started on the bank holiday and corresponded with half-term. A common concern is that by not falling during half-term, we automatically exclude families, teachers and the like from ever being able to attend. 

Every year we get feedback about the event date. So this year we opened a community consultation.

Community Consultation

We initially reached out to the community asking for thoughts on a Google form. We got a bunch of people engaging which was amazing, but we also realised there was no way for people to see the comments people had submitted... curses. This meant there was a limit to discussion or for people to consider some of the excellent points raised.

So we moved to Loomio. This allows more of a forum-style comment section, and we were stoked that people also engaged with the discussion over there. However, we acknowledge that switching part-way through meant we lost some people, potentially had some double-voting, and it all got a bit confusing. We learnt pretty quickly from this so won't be doing that again!

The Results

Here's where it gets sticky. When we split ourselves across two different platforms, we also found ourselves with two opposing sets of results. The Google form data showed a clear preference for moving, while the Loomio results suggested we should keep the dates the same. Using Loomio feedback from the community we were able to make a consensus decision-making process and not a popularity pool.

From the community input in Loomio we understood the most common sentiments against moving the dates were:

• The likelihood of having less people in the event as it is harder to some get holiday from work
• The event will clash with Fire in the Mountain and Flim Flam therefore won't be able to come
• The change in the demographics of people and ages might inhibit radical self-expression

And the pro movement of the dates were:

• Inclusion, by giving the possibility to more people to attend the event

There were plenty of other excellent discussion points which we'll come back to in a minute, but let's take a second on this one, cos it in itself is a tricky one!

The Debate

The org team had a lively debate on this - especially because ultimately both sides of the coin come down to inclusion. Our theme camps are a really valued part of our event, and we know that they contribute a lot to the energy of Nest. But ultimately we couldn't get away from the idea that the dates as they are automatically exclude those families who might want to attend; by contrast, if members of a camp choose to go to another event instead, this is a loss to us but ultimately their call.

Some of the questions around this:

• Does this apply to all members of any given theme camp? 
• Would we make the same calls no matter which camp was attending or not attending?
• Do we have a guarantee that keeping the dates the same would automatically mean any given camp would be present?
• Is there potential for other camps or art projects to arise if an existing one bows out?
• And so on and so forth (it really was a lively debate).

Ultimately, the suggestion was made (and agreed) that we set the dates during half term for one, but not both of the next two years, to maximise the potential for inclusion.

But Which Year??

While changing the dates either 2025 or 2026 next felt like a logical decision, there were still a number of points to address.

We agreed unanimously that while the council have always been happy with our safeguarding and procedures, that if Nest dates fell during half term we personally would like to have more robust measures in place. Starting with a families lead and a safeguarding lead to make sure we assess all aspects of Nest with these hats on.

We discussed testing increased measures for 2025 with a view to moving in 2026, but recognised that it would likely be parents who might take up these additional safeguarding roles, and therefore we might struggle to recruit if the dates weren't during half term to begin with.

We agreed to ask the community for help, and gauge the response. If we got sufficient volunteers, we could proceed with discussions around moving dates for 2025. September meeting was adjourned here with a view to voting in October.

The Response

As ever, you folks blew us out of the water. We got a massive response from people interested in both roles - enough to validate that people were really passionate about the ability of families to come to Nest. And as always, the more the merrier - if this is an area you care about, please do get in touch with our Vols lead.

The Vote

So then to the vote - even though you know how it ended!

We did however, have plenty still to talk about. Including some things we still don't have the answers for! We discussed:

• The importance of clearly communicating expectations to parents regarding caregiving
• Which days of the week to start and end on
• How Temple burn might be impacted on Sunday night, if people need to go back to work on Monday
• Strike volunteer numbers and the risk of these decreasing
• Theme camp build and strike timeline impacts
• And more!

Ultimately, the date change passed with just over 60% of Circle Links voting to make the switch for this year.

Conclusion

Seriously, we put in a lot of time trying to make sure we considered all of the outcomes to try and do the best by everybody. We know it's not going to be foolproof - but we really did our best. Hopefully that shows in this extremely long article too - we're aiming for transparency so you can see how we got here.

The intention is to revert to the usual dates for 2026 and assess how it all went, along with any changes we need to make to our new safeguarding roles and processes going forward.

So if you're keen to be a part of it - let us know! Our Vols team is only an email away 😉

Read More

Hello! Colonel Mustard here! I'm coordinating a project called "InCluedo" to help groups of Nestlings make their needs known to a broad audience, to avoid having conversations often (or worse, not having needs met). Our priorities include people with access needs resulting from mobility issues, Neurodiversity and medical issues. We also want to feature other groups who could benefit from a platform (eg parents), as well as groups underrepresented at Nest (eg older Burners). Burning Nest is for everyone; help us make you feel welcome and inCluedo-ed!   Mobility Colonel Mustard: Hi "Bob," thanks for joining us. Could you tell us a bit about your access needs? Bob: Thanks! I'm basically fine, but walking is difficult for me. After about 5 minutes, I want to be sitting down. I enjoy Nest a lot, though! CM: Sorry to hear, but glad you're making the most of it. Has Nest been generally accommodating? Bob: Yes, for example they did a good job of providing transport to the Effigy and Temple Burn areas, since I couldn't walk that far, and they had disabled toilets (I had a radar key and you could get one from Welfare). CM: Are there any things Nest or camp leads can do differently? Bob: One thing camp leads can do is consider having an inclusion lead, in the same way they have LNT leads, just so someone is thinking about how to make the space accessible for everyone. Another, and I know this is a big ask, is for more raised seating around camps. That would really make it easier for people like me. CM: Cool! Thanks for your suggestions, really appreciate your time! Bob: Cheers Note:  Centrally located Accessible Camping is available to anybody who needs it! Ask where it is at Gate when you arrive.   Neurodiversity Colonel Mustard: James, thanks for joining us. I'm keen to hear what would help neurodivergent people! Could you give us some of your needs? James: Explaining things clearly is great! Say you run a breathwork session. I'd love to know before joining whether it's beginner-friendly or targeted to experienced people. CM: The What Where When Guide will say if there are any specific requirements for an event, or experience needed. If it doesn't say, you can safely assume that in the spirit of Radical Inclusion, Immediacy and Participation that you can just turn up as you are! What else would help you? James: At events, you often get people loitering and chatting. I have trouble focusing if there's sound nearby from people chatting or from music at nearby camps. Would love it if event spaces are quiet. CM: Got it. What else can people do? James: I struggle to understand body language and social cues. Neurotypical people should know not everyone understands situations implicitly. If you clearly explain the rules, maybe by writing them down ahead of time, it will be much easier for me and other people to make sure everyone is comfortable. Also, in my ideal world sessions would start on time. CM: I hear you! I agree re: explaining rules clearly, I'll try to do that in my events. Anything else? James: I'm also sensory prone to the point where even strong cologne can cause me real discomfort. I know it's hard, but if we could get quiet in the camping areas, I'd be much happier! CM: thanks, James! I appreciate you sharing your thoughts. Note: Although Freecamping a relatively quiet zone as it is predominantly a camping area, this year we have introduced a 'Quieter Zone' in Free Camping for those who want peace and quiet. Ask about it at Gate!   Families Colonel Mustard: Sarah, thanks for joining us! You've taken children to Burns before? Sarah: yes, we've done a lot of Burns, including four with our two year old! Colonel Mustard: I'm impressed! Is Nest a good place for families? Sarah: Definitely! Our 8 and 9 year old had a lot of fun. The Nest Olympics was a great family friendly event. So was the pub quiz. And we loved the circus crew. Colonel Mustard: Any suggestions for Families coming to Nest? Sarah: Let's have an area in Free Camping designated family-friendly. It'll be nice to be together. Colonel Mustard: Any suggestions for theme camps? Sarah: More soft drinks! People are doing a lovely thing if they set up a bar with alcohol. If it also has soft drinks or juice, it's even nicer for us. CM: Cool, thank you! Anything else? Sarah: Yes, I'm the Family Lead in the Community circle this year. If you have questions about children at Nest, feel free to reach out! sarah@thesparks.family   Thanks for reading! This post will grow and grow as more Burners share their stories with me. Please get in touch with me, Colonel Mustard, at BurningInclusion@proton.me to be featured (anonymously if you like) in this post!

So you’ve clinched a precious Nest ticket for 2023, or you're anticipating one of our delicious future ticket releases... and now you're wondering how to get involved next!

Well, lucky for you, you've found our four part series on How To Maximise Your Burning Nest Experience (Or Any Burn, For That Matter!)

We're firm believers that you get out what you put in. Here are four excellent ways that even first time burners can get involved:

1. Bring a Theme Camp

2. Make Art

3. Offer An Event

4. Volunteer

 

The icing on the cake of any burn experience is workshops, parties, and events! This is an amazing way to contribute any of your skills and talents, hidden or otherwise, that don’t necessarily fit into any of the other categories. Or maybe they do, and you’ve simply got more to give! Either way, we’re here for it.

 

WHAT KIND OF EVENTS CAN I OFFER?

Literally… anything. As long as it’s not going to endanger other Nestlings or infringe on their right to consent, you can pull forth any form of ridiculousness you like.

Here are some events we’ve loved from previous burns:

1. Workshops to build your skills - leatherwork and poi spinning, for example

2. Illegal Vibrator Racing (a Kiwiburn classic)

3. Sounds baths (oosh, so delicious - you literally feel like your brain has been washed)

4. Dance parties (high levels of bass encouraged)

5. Sparkle Pony Shaming and Support

6. Breathwork and guided meditation

7. Kitty kat cafe (hint: no actual cats involved)

The list goes on - but meeting up with other Nestlings who are interested in the same events as you is epic. If it wasn’t enough that you both chose Nest, you also both chose *this* crazy thing! Sounds like you’ll be great friends.

 

WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED?

Another great question - look at you go!

 

HOW DO I SUBMIT AN EVENT?

We’re glad you asked! There are two routes: independently or with (some) Theme Camps.

Anybody can host an event anytime at Nest. In that case, use the general submission form:  https://forms.gle/8px7g176q7MdkCkt5. Note: The Point is a public space available for different kinds of events! Timings will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so get your events in soon!

If you want to run your event at a particular Theme Camp, you have to communicate with them first! Many camps have their own events sign-up process. Some camps have more formal applications: 

• Camp Crumpet (Deadline April 13th)
• Psychedellyfish (Deadline April 15th)
• Panravia (Deadline April ??th)

Other camps may be open to hosting events as well. Learn more about them and contact them directly from the Theme Camps page.

Depending on the camp, either they will upload your event for you, or you will still have to use the general submission form. 

WHY SHOULD I OFFER AN EVENT?

Firstly, did you read the inspirational list of shenanigans above?! Nest is a place in which “if you can dream it, you can do it” applies… but it’s also a do-ocracy. Which means if you want to see it happening in the world, congratulations - it’s up to you to make it work! Even if you’ve got an idea, and no idea how to execute it - never fear. Our Facebook group is a wonderful place to drop a shout-out and see who else might want to join you in bringing your vision to life. Don’t be shy!

 

SO WHERE DO I SUBMIT MY EVENT?

Once more for those in the back 😉 We’d love to see your events and be able to share your plans in our What Where When guide! The submission deadline is April 20th 2023. Press the "Submit" Button below for the application form.

 

Note: If you're offering some sort of amazing immersive experience, sometimes you could even apply for an Art Grant to help bring your dream to life! Art grants are technically closed for 2023 but there may still be funding available. And definitely bear this in mind for your 2024 shenanigans!