1. Introduction

This is our only explicitly ‘Buddhism specific’ section. Aimed at beginners and especially geared to those who are housebound, it was compiled in response to the question most often asked - 'how can I find out about Buddhism?' - when Stillpoint was a postal ME information network. However the contacts should be of use to others unable to attend teaching centres eg. those in rural areas, or carers - or indeed anyone interested in learning about Buddhism from home.

When you can't reach a meditation teacher

Although books and CDs/tapes are useful guides for learning, it is always best to have contact with an experienced teacher when developing a practice in case problems arise. It is worth investigating which groups meet in your area, and asking for details of their activities, as well disabled access to venues. In some cases members may offer additional support, eg lifts to meetings or other practical help if you have mobility problems. Realistically, however, this depends on available resources and how restricted you are by your condition; outreach support or home visits are rare. Hence mail order suppliers and correspondence courses are listed here as a substitute for those unable to physically reach instruction.
Finally if you seek a meditation class where you can feel more open about discussing your symptoms, do note that in some cases patient groupsfor your particular health condition - either within NHS or voluntary sector - might be willing to organise one.

Finding Buddhist groups in your area

What follows is only a selective list of Dharma publishers and contacts. For comprehensive details of UK Buddhist and related organizations we recommend the Buddhist society (see below) or see Buddhanet's Buddhist Directory (UK section).

The Buddhist Society

The Buddhist Society was founded in 1924 by the late Christmas Humphreys. It provides classes and courses in the teachings of the major Buddhist traditions, as well as a general introduction to Buddhism and its historical development. It also has a library. As well as the Middle Way Dharma journal, the society publish the Buddhist Directory listing UK national & local Buddhist group contacts, retreat centres and related Buddhist organisations. The office can also provide this information by telephone.

Contact: Buddhist Society, 58 Eccleston Square, London, SW1V 1PH, UK. Tel 0207 834 5858 (open afternoons).

Help others to access this document

This document is designed with non-net users in mind as we have found that many people with illness are unable to use computers. Please help by printing this section to pass on to any beginners who are exploring Buddhism for the first time without internet access. (Only do so if they have expressed an interest, however - Buddhism does not support proselytising!)