Able to Care

In this powerful episode of the Able to Care podcast, hosts Andy Baker and Nadine Sutton welcome Sosa Henkoma, a survivor and a beacon of resilience who shares his profound journey from the streets of Nigeria to the challenges he faced in the UK. A keynote speaker featured in The Guardian, Sosa dives deep into the cultural shocks, personal losses, and his battle against exploitation that shaped his life. His story is not just about survival but about transforming suffering into awareness and empowerment for the community. Sosa Henkoma is a survivor of child criminal exploitation in the UK. Forced into a gang at a young age, he experienced violence and hardship. Despite this, Sosa escaped that life and now works to help others. He uses his experiences to raise awareness about modern slavery and advocates for vulnerable youth. Sosa is a consultant for organisations like Youth Unity and the Human Trafficking Foundation. Key Moments: Key Messages: Join us for this profound conversation that not only sheds light on the struggles many face but also highlights the strength and resilience possible in the face of adversity. Be sure to engage with Sosa's work through the links provided in our podcast description to learn more and support his mission. Find Sosa on Instagram @sosa_est or LinkedIn sosa-henkoma-a99514251 Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations Exploitation, criminal exploitation, CCE, trafficking, modern slavery, care, looked after children, foster care.

🎧 Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast, sponsored by Able Training Support Ltd, as he explores the crucial topic of creating sensory safe spaces in care environments. Gain insights into the diverse challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing issues, trauma backgrounds, and mental health conditions. Discover practical strategies for designing calming environments, from managing visual stimuli to implementing aromatherapy. Explore proactive approaches for stress management and behavior regulation, and learn essential safety considerations for maintaining secure sensory spaces. Share your experiences and insights within our community as we strive to foster positive outcomes for all. Timestamps: 00:00:20 - Introduction to Sensory Safe Spaces: Host Andy Baker introduces the episode topic, focusing on the importance of creating sensory safe spaces in various care settings. 00:00:54 - Understanding Sensory Processing Challenges: Discussion on the prevalence of sensory processing issues, including their impact on individuals across different populations, such as those on the autistic spectrum or with mental health conditions. 00:02:13 - Importance of Environment Design: Explanation of how the sensory environment plays a crucial role in managing distress behavior, emphasizing the need for sensory safe spaces within care environments. 00:03:38 - Visual Stimuli Management: Exploration of strategies for managing visual stimuli, including adjusting lighting and utilizing calming visual elements to create low-stimulus environments. 00:06:45 - Addressing Auditory Preferences: Discussion on addressing auditory preferences, including providing quiet spaces or utilizing white noise machines to promote relaxation. 00:08:15 - Tactile Comfort and Autonomy: Explanation of the importance of tactile comfort and providing choices in sensory environments, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities. 00:09:21 - Aromatherapy Benefits: Overview of the benefits of aromatherapy in promoting well-being, with a focus on selecting suitable scents based on individual preferences. 00:10:43 - Utilizing Smells Strategically: Discussion on the strategic use of scents to influence mood and behavior, with examples from care settings to enhance nutrition and promote relaxation. 00:11:27 - Incorporating Movement: Exploration of the importance of incorporating movement-based sensory activities, such as swinging or trampolining, to regulate sensory experiences. 00:12:52 - Proactive Planning and Safety Measures: Overview of proactive planning strategies, including minimizing sensory stimuli, providing choices, and ensuring safety within sensory safe spaces. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #SensorySafeSpaces, #CareEnvironments, #SensoryProcessing, #Well-being,# VisualStimuli, #Aromatherapy,#ProactivePlanning, #SafetyMeasures, #Podcast,#AbleToCarePodcast

The Able to Care podcast, sponsored by Able Training Support Ltd, brings you another insightful episode. Host Andy Baker welcomes Tem, known for her podcast "Helping Teachers Thrive,". Tem’s shares her 15 years of teaching experience, specialising in secondary and special education. They discuss the symbiotic relationship between teachers and students, emphasising the importance of teacher well-being for positive outcomes. Tem shares insights into challenges teachers face, including class sizes and the mainstream vs. special education debate. They delve into parent-teacher collaboration, highlighting the need for empathy and communication. Join the conversation and discover valuable strategies to support teachers and students alike. Key Timestamps: Key Messages Check out Tem's podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/helping-teachers-thrive/id1681843058 Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. #education #ParentTeacherPartnership #StudentSupport #EmotionalWellness #EducationInsights #TeacherTips #ParentingAdvice #EducationPodcast #StudentSuccess #SchoolCommunity #EducationalResources #EducationForAll

In this thought-provoking episode of "Able to Care," host Andy Baker delves into the controversial concept of "deficit behaviours." Andy explores the definition, implications, and community response to this term, especially within the context of his upcoming book "Targeting the Positive." This episode not only clarifies what deficit behaviours entail but also addresses the broader discussion around medical and social models of disability, the backlash from the neurodiverse community, and the importance of societal adaptation and mutual understanding. Key Moments & Messages 00:15 Introduction to the episode and sponsorship note from Able Training Support Limited. 02:30 Andy explains the term "deficit behaviours" as used in his upcoming book and why it remains despite some controversy. 05:45 Discussion on the impact of deficit behaviours on individuals versus excess behaviours, which are more outwardly visible and often labelled as challenging. 11:20 Exploration of the criticism from various communities regarding the term as ableist, and the contrast between the medical model (illness-focused) and the social model (difference-focused) of disability. 17:55 Insights into how societal norms and expectations play a role in defining behaviours and the importance of a balanced societal approach. 23:40 A personal story illustrating real-world application of understanding and adapting to different behaviours in social settings. 29:50 Andy emphasises the goal of the episode: to foster understanding and acceptance rather than correction of behaviours deemed atypical. 34:10 Closing thoughts on the necessity of empathy and flexibility in societal norms to accommodate diverse needs and behaviours. 36:25 Conclusion of the episode and a thank you to listeners and sponsors. Key Messages This episode of "Able to Care" encourages listeners to think critically about the language and perspectives we use to describe behaviour and to strive for a more inclusive society. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #AbleToCarePodcast #Caregiving #Empathy #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapeuticParenting #FosterCare #SocialWork #TraumaInformedCare # mentalhealth #mentalhealthin children # adolescentmentalhealth #education #parents #teachers #carers #childrenshomes #transitions #neurodiversity

In this touching episode of the "Able to Care" podcast, Andy and Nadine welcome Kim Morrisroe, who shares the powerful story of her family’s ongoing battle with her daughter's severe mental health issues. Kim, discusses the onset of her daughter’s problems during primary school, escalating to more severe conditions through her teenage years. This heartfelt discussion sheds light on the challenges faced by families navigating mental health care systems, the emotional and practical strains on families, and the importance of support and understanding from both personal and professional perspectives. Kym is an expert through experience in mental health and supporting a child through mental health. Due to her circumstances, she has had to learn the intricacies of the system. Key Messages: Challenges of Navigating Mental Health Care: The episode highlights the difficulties in accessing appropriate care, dealing with bureaucracy, and the emotional toll on families. Importance of Support: Emphasizes the critical role of support groups, professional guidance, and the need for community awareness and understanding. Resilience and Growth: Despite severe challenges, there is a focus on personal growth and resilience developed through such experiences, offering hope to others in similar situations. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #AbleToCarePodcast #Caregiving #Empathy #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapeuticParenting #FosterCare #SocialWork #TraumaInformedCare # mentalhealth #mentalhealthin children # adolescentmentalhealth #education#parents#teachers#carers#childrenshomes #transitions

In this episode of the "Able to Care" podcast, host Andy Baker dives into the profound "Room One, Room Two" principle, a concept introduced by author Sarah Naish. This episode explores the dynamic of change and adaptation in caregiving environments, particularly focusing on how individuals from challenging backgrounds adjust to new settings. Andy discusses the psychological impact of transitioning from familiar but potentially harmful environments (Room One) to new, nurturing ones (Room Two) and how this affects individuals such as unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, foster children, and those with mental health conditions. This principle sheds light on the importance of empathy and understanding in caregiving professions. Key Moments: Key Messages: Empathy and Understanding: The principle highlights the need for caregivers to deeply understand the emotional and psychological states of those they care for, especially when these individuals transition from adverse conditions to more nurturing ones. Adjustment Challenges: Discusses the natural resistance and discomfort that comes with being placed in a new environment, even if it's objectively better, and how this can manifest in behaviour. Role of Environment in Recovery: Emphasizes the significance of a supportive and understanding environment in the recovery and adaptation process for individuals from challenging backgrounds. Application Across Settings: While the principle is discussed primarily in the context of caregiving for children and those with mental health conditions, it also applies broadly across various caregiving and therapeutic settings. Encouragement for Caregivers: Provides practical advice for caregivers and professionals on fostering a conducive environment for change and recovery, stressing patience and gradual adjustment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in caregiving, social work, or therapeutic professions, offering valuable insights into the complex dynamics of human behaviour and environmental influence. Remember to subscribe and leave us a review if you found this episode valuable. Your feedback helps us grow and improve. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #AbleToCarePodcast #Caregiving #Empathy #MentalHealthAwareness #TherapeuticParenting #FosterCare #SocialWork #TraumaInformedCare #education#parents#teachers#carers#childrenshomes #transitions

In this thought-provoking episode of the "Able to Care" podcast, hosts Andy and Nadine explore the intricacies of behavioural management and its implications in caregiving. This discussion delves into real-life case scenarios, shedding light on the often complex nature of behaviour and its roots, as well as the consequences of traditional punitive measures. The episode challenges conventional behaviourist approaches and offers insights into more empathetic and effective strategies. Key Moments: Key Messages: Behavioural Understanding: It's crucial to understand the underlying causes and contributing factors of behaviours rather than just the behaviours themselves. Empathy over Punishment: Emphasizing empathy and understanding can lead to more effective caregiving and less reliance on punitive measures that often fail to address the root causes of behaviours. Immediate Consequences: Immediate and understandable consequences are more effective, especially for individuals with cognitive differences like ADHD. Learned Helplessness: Punitive approaches can lead to learned helplessness, where individuals no longer attempt to improve due to a belief that their efforts do not affect outcomes. Societal and Cultural Shifts: There is a need for a shift in societal and cultural approaches to behaviour management, from a punitive model to one that focuses on teaching and rehabilitation. Remember to subscribe and leave us a review if you found this episode valuable. Your feedback helps us grow and improve. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #AbleToCarePodcast #BehaviourManagement #EmpathyInCaregiving #PositiveOutcomes #UnderstandingBehaviour #LearnedHelplessness #SocialLearning #TherapeuticParenting #BehavioralInsights #PunishmentVsEducation #CaregivingChallenges #MentalHealthAwareness #ADHD #Autism #behaviour # positivebehavioursupport #care #punishement#parenting #teachers #carers #Neurodiversity

In this insightful episode of the "Able to Care" podcast, we dive into the principles of the 3P model of social pedagogy and its application in caregiving. Our host, Andy, explores the critical balance between our professional, personal, and private selves, especially when advocating for and supporting those in our care. Drawing from real-life scenarios and the principles of assertive communication, this episode is a must-listen for caregivers, educators, social workers, and anyone involved in the fostering and care community. Discover how to maintain professionalism while being authentic and ensuring positive outcomes for all involved. Timestamps: 00.00 - Introduction to the podcast and sponsorship mention. 06:03 - Introduction to the topic of social pedagogy. 06:31 - Discussion on the importance of professional development in caregiving and fostering. 07:31 - Exploring the "Three Ps" model: Professional Self, Personal Self, and Private Self. 08:52 - The significance of maintaining professional boundaries for better outcomes. 14:59 - A real-life scenario illustrating the application of the Three Ps in fostering. 17:07 -Tips for caregivers on managing professional relationships and conflicts. 20:28 - Emphasizing the need for assertive communication in caregiving roles. 23:50 - Concluding thoughts. Key Messages Remember to subscribe and leave us a review if you found this episode valuable. Your feedback helps us grow and improve. CTA’s, teasers and announcements: Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests like Sara Challice. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations

Join Andy in this compelling episode as he engages in a profound conversation with the esteemed Award-Winning Author, Sara Challice. Sara shares her personal journey as a carer after her husband's stroke, shedding light on the profound impact it had on her life and mental health, and how she navigated through external pressures and personal expectations. Get ready for heartfelt discussions and invaluable insights on the importance of self-care. Grab a cup of tea and tune in for an episode filled with wisdom and thoughtful advice. Sara Challice, renowned author of the bestselling book "Who Cares? How to Care for yourself whilst Caring for a Loved One," brings her expertise as a passionate advocate for caregivers. With 13 years of first hand experience caring for her husband, Sara empowers caregivers through her talks, webinars, and courses. Discover how to manage your caregiving role, prioritize your well-being, and reclaim joy in your life. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 02:18 - Sara’s Care Journey 10:40- The Reality of Effects on Carers 13:58- How to Practice Self Care 19:20- Support Networks- Taps & Drains 25:13- Managing Boundaries and Fear of Missing Out 30:40- Tips for Being Kind to Yourself 41:28- Loss of Identity 47:52- Resources for Carers 58:01- Quickfire Q+A Additional Resources + Links: Sara Challice “WhoCares4Carers” Website - https://www.whocares4carers.com/ Carers UK Website- https://www.carersuk.org/ Integrated Neurological Services Website- https://ins.org.uk/ CTA’s, teasers and announcements: Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests like Sara Challice. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #carer #caregiver #caregiving #familycarer #unpaidcarer #careerdevelopment #careerdemands #carersupport #carersnetwork #carerwellbeing #carerresources #carertips #carenavigation #acquiredbraininjury #ABI #braininjury #traumaticbraininjury #TBI #strokesurvivor #cognitivechanges #communicationdifficulties #behaviouralchanges #adhd #fatigue #depression #stroke # braintumour #ABISupport #ABIAwareness #braininjurysupport #recoveryjourney #selfcare #selfcaresunday #mentalhealthmatters #wellness #wellbeing #stressmanagement #mindfulness #meditation #yoga #exercise #healthylifestyle #relaxation #mentalhealth #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealthmatters #anxiety #depression #stress #mentalhealthsupport #mentalhealthcare #talkaboutit #youarenotalone #gethelp #carermentalhealth #ABIandmentalhealth #selfcareforcarers

In this weeks episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy and Nadine delve into the topic of men's mental well-being. They explore the shift in understanding and perception towards mental health among men, shedding light on the associated stigma.

Andy and Nadine are joined by Joe, to share his experiences with epilepsy. Joe discusses overcoming the challenges of living with the condition, seizures, lone working and the long process of getting your driving licence when you suffer from epilepsy.

Andy is joined by Benny Shakes, comedian, writer and co-founder of the Blue Badge Bunch focused on promoting disability awareness, to explore what it's like to live with Cerebral Palsy.

This months podcast explores Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and how we can help those living with it.

This month's Podcast with Special Guest Alex Bond discusses Autism in Girls. We explore diagnosis, masking the different presentation in many girls.

Andy is joined in this episode by Ian Peskett, who tells his story of alcohol and substance misuse, his journey to recovery and his role as a support worker helping those in recovery.

Nadine talks with Karena Brooks, CEO of Grantham & District Mencap to discuss Learning Disabilities.

Keynote Speaker, Author and Father's mental health International campaigner Mark Williams joins Andy to explore what it's like to live with ADHD, his difficulties and his coping mechanisms.

Andy is joined by Michael who has 30 years of experience working within children's homes to discuss the challenges that Autism and Sensory Processing present for children.

In this episode of the Able Training Podcast, Andy & Nadine discuss how Dementia affects the 5 senses and the difficulties around sensory needs.

Many people feel excited about the festive season. It is a time for family, food, giving and celebration. It is easy to get caught up in traditions and the joy of the season, but for some Christmas can be an extremely challenging time of year.