As genealogists and family historians we may discover some unexpected information in our research, sometimes this is pleasantly exciting but at other times it can lead to findings which are difficult to share and require great sensitivity. As we increasingly use DNA as a tool in the research process, unexpected connections are becoming more apparent. How confident do you feel in informing clients, family and friends about sensitive information you have found in records?
Join this two-part event to gain an understanding of managing difficult conversations using a professional communication structure, and to explore managing different scenarios with a specialised team of genealogists experienced in this field of work.
Week One - presentation explaining the appropriate method to use to manage difficult conversations with the opportunity for Q&A.
Week Two - guided workshop to encourage practice and confidence in extending your skill set to meet the needs of the recipient professionally, and learning how to manage difficult responses through realistic scenarios.
- 20% Discount for all Society of Genealogists Members
- Recordings available until 11 January 2027 for everyone who pre-books
Click here for information about our events. Contact events@sog.org.uk if you have any questions.
Programme details
| Talk | Part 1: Presentation | Online | 04/12/2026 | 10:30 - 11:30 |
| Workshop | Part 2: Interactive Workshop | Online | 11/12/2026 | 10:30 - 12:00 |
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About the Speaker
Jude Rhodes
Jude lives in and is from Yorkshire, much of her work is focused on Yorkshire family and local history with a specialism of the Yorkshire Dales and an interest in migration from the Dales. She is a Pharos Tutor for the Researching Your Yorkshire Ancestors course.
Jude qualified as a genealogist through the Pharos and SoG Advanced Skills and Strategies course. She is an AGRA Associate, Chair of the British Association for Local History Outreach Team and Secretary for the Society of One Place Studies.
Jude draws on her experience as a Registered Nurse using family history in memory loss to create meaningful conversations between family and friends.
About the Speaker
Dr Sophie Kay
From DNA to historical maps, from research methods to historical occupations, Dr. Sophie Kay is a professional genealogist and geneticist at Khronicle® (www.khronicle.co.uk) who tackles all manner of family history research challenges from the medieval era to modern day. She’s the Ancestry and Genealogy Expert for popular archaeology show, Time Team, and the Scientist in Residence for The Mixed Museum, where she delivers educational sessions and content in genetic genealogy. A qualified research scientist, Sophie is also a Member of AGRA, a UK organisation of professional genealogists, and works on a variety of projects in both DNA and archival research for private clients and public organisations. Sophie’s family history blog can be found at The Parchment Rustler (www.parchmentrustler.com), where she shares tips, tricks and strategies for making the most of your ancestral research journey.
About the Speaker
Mia Bennett
Mia Bennett is a professional genealogist who specialises in DNA analysis for family history. She applies her analysis skills developed as a safety engineer to untangle all the clues provided within family history records and DNA results. She has been researching her family history for over 30 years and was previously a trustee of the Society of Genealogists. Mia is an Associate of AGRA. Mia gives talks on traditional genealogy and DNA both online and in person around the world. She is studying for a Higher Certificate in Genealogy at the IHGS and is an alumna of SLIG and GRIP institute courses in the USA.
About the Speaker
Kathy Wilshaw
Kathy is a Qualified Genealogist and a full Member of AGRA. She has worked in adoption for nearly 30 years. She has an Advanced Diploma in Local History from Oxford University and recently passed the University of Strathclyde PG Diploma in Genealogical, Palaeographical and Heraldic Studies with Distinction. Alongside traditional genealogical research, Kathy works as a researcher with a number of Adoption Agencies including Barnardo's and PAC-UK, and is also an adoption Intermediary with PAC-UK.
