DISCOVER Voices | disAbility Cornwall & IoS

Welcome to the Advocacy Fellows Podcast, where young adults with learning disabilities speak openly about the issues that affect their lives. In this episode, the Advocacy Fellows explore a vital question: are people with learning disabilities being treated as equal adults in society? Research from the Office for National Statistics shows disabled people often report lower levels of personal wellbeing. In this episode, we go beyond the statistics and hear directly from Advocacy Fellows about their lived experiences. Honest, powerful and personal – this conversation highlights the changes still needed for people with learning disabilities to live full, equal lives. Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. Discover Voices (c) 2026, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Welcome to this episode of the Advocacy Fellows Podcast, where young adults with learning disabilities speak openly about the issues that affect their lives. In this episode, the Advocacy Fellows share their personal experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic and the lasting impact it had on their mental health, education, friendships and daily routines. The coronavirus pandemic had a devastating and unequal impact on people with learning disabilities. Research from Bristol University and Public Health England showed significantly higher death rates, particularly among younger adults, highlighting long-standing health inequalities. In this episode, the Fellows reflect on how these realities shaped their fears, worries and experiences during lockdown. Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode, host Anna Lempriere speaks with Julie Fleming, a Specialist Community Dietitian with over 14 years’ experience in diabetes, nutrition, and community health across West Cornwall. Julie also has 27 years of experience as a fitness instructor, supporting people to build strength, confidence and better long-term health. Together, Anna and Julie explore the essential question many people ask: Can nutrition reduce the risk of dementia or help slow its progression? Julie shares evidence-based guidance, explains what current research is telling us, and breaks down complex information into simple, everyday actions. Resources: www.eclipsesolutions.org www.dementiauk.org Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode of Conversations with Dr Theo Blackmore, Dr Theo sits down with Hayley Newman, a mother, counselor, and advocate, to discuss her experiences raising her daughter Natty, who has Down’s syndrome. Hayley shares the highs and lows of parenting a child with a learning disability, reflecting on the challenges of navigating the education system, transitioning from pediatric to adult care, and finding meaningful opportunities for Natty as she reaches adulthood. From preschool inclusion to specialist schooling, Hayley details how finding the right support and environment helped Natty thrive, highlighting the importance of being judged against one’s own abilities rather than standardised expectations. The conversation also explores the broader social context, including representation of disabled people in media, the ethics of antenatal screening, and the impact of high termination rates on the Down’s syndrome community. Hayley emphasises the joy, resilience, and lessons learned from her daughter, showing that families with disabled children often experience profound love, pride, and personal growth. Hayley also shares her professional journey, from teaching to counseling parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), illustrating how personal experiences can inspire meaningful work. The discussion touches on sibling dynamics, societal perceptions of disability, and the shifting language and understanding around disability, offering both insight and inspiration for parents, educators, and anyone interested in inclusive communities. Resources: https://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/ http://www.downssideup.com/

In this episode of Conversations with Dr Theo Blackmore on the DISCOVER Voices network, Theo speaks with Jenny Williams, CEO and founder of Enhance The UK. Jenny shares her personal story of living with hearing loss and the experiences that led her to set up Enhance The UK. Together, they explore important but often overlooked conversations around sex, relationships, disability, and intimacy — including the challenges of safeguarding, misconceptions, and the importance of creating safe spaces like The Love Lounge. From access to sex education to the intersection of disability and sexuality, this discussion tackles taboos head-on, giving voice to issues many disabled people face but rarely get to talk about. 👉 Find out more about Enhance The UK and their work: https://enhancetheuk.org #DisabilityRights #SexualityAndDisability #DiscoverVoices #EnhanceTheUK

Grief and Dementia | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #33 In this episode of the Dementia Toolkit Series, host Anna Lempriere from the Cornwall Memory Café Network speaks with Anna Sadler, a clinical psychologist with Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Together, they explore the complex and personal journey of grief in the context of dementia, looking at how it affects both carers and people living with dementia. With compassion and clarity, they discuss anticipatory grief, coping strategies, and the importance of support during times of loss. This conversation offers comfort, guidance, and reassurance for anyone navigating grief alongside dementia.

Join Anna Lempriere from the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network as she hosts an insightful conversation with Sharon Lukert, author of Until My Memory Fails Me. In this episode, Sharon, a nurse and chaplain living with early-stage dementia, shares her journey, offering practical self-help strategies and emotional resilience techniques for those affected by dementia. Discover how to foster emotional well-being, combat stigma, and plan for a meaningful future. Tune in for heartfelt stories, expert insights, and a guided meditation practice to support caregivers and individuals alike. Links to Sharon’s book and resources are in the show notes.

In this episode host Anna Lempriere from the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall, speaks with Louise Brown, Associate at Coodes Solicitors. Together, they explore some of the key legal topics that affect people living with dementia and those who care for them. Louise provides a clear and compassionate overview of Lasting Power of Attorney and mental capacity, including the differences between managing finances and making decisions about care, when these legal documents are used, and why it is important to plan ahead. Whether you are a carer, a family member, or someone living with dementia, this inclusive and informative conversation offers practical guidance to help you feel more supported and prepared. 🧩 Relaxed, accessible, and shaped by real experiences, this podcast is here to support your dementia journey. This series is created by the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly, to provide clear, supportive guidance for anyone affected by dementia. - Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode, host Anna Lempriere speaks with Lorraine Butcher, a Queen’s Nurse and Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist with Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. Lorraine shares her expert knowledge of Parkinson’s disease - explaining what it is, how it affects the brain and body, and why it can sometimes be linked to dementia. Whether you're living with Parkinson’s, supporting someone who is, or just looking to better understand the condition, this relaxed but informative conversation offers valuable insight into one of the world’s fastest-growing neurological conditions. www.parkinsons.org.uk - Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode, Anna Lempriere speaks with Dina Holder, Community Engagement Manager at the Women’s Centre, about domestic abuse and family violence - particularly as it affects older people and those with dementia. With honesty, warmth, and deep experience, Dina shares how abuse can go unrecognised, why older adults are often underserved, and what support is available. This conversation offers insights for anyone on the dementia pathway or concerned about someone they know. ⚠️ Please note: this episode discusses sensitive topics that may be triggering for some viewers. Resources - The Women's Centre Cornwall: https://www.womenscentrecornwall.org.uk/ - Safer Cornwall: https://safercornwall.co.uk/domestic-abuse-sexual-violence/ - First Light: https://www.firstlight.org.uk/ - Dementia and longstanding domestic abuse: There is a surprisingly limited amount of research on this topic although findings from Dr Lucy Knight and Professor Marianne Hester’s research highlights that the onset of dementia in the situations studied led to an escalation in the severity of the domestic abuse: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/Knight%20Lucy.pdf - Domestic abuse and the co-existence of dementia: https://dewischoice.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Dewis-Choice-Dementia-and-Domestic-Abuse-18.7.24-1-compressed.pdf - The combination of dementia and domestic abuse is all too often overlooked: https://theconversation.com/the-combination-of-dementia-and-domestic-abuse-is-all-too-often-overlooked-139535 - Care Provider Response to Domestic Abuse and supporting people living with dementia and their carers: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5cea59cc8648df0001e6810d/t/61a0ab7cf2f8dd6d6dac33ee/1637919619007/domestic-abuse-and-dementia.pdf - Knowsley’s Dementia and Domestic Abuse Toolkit https://knowsleysafeguardingadultsboard.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Domestic-Abuse-and-Dementia-.pdf - Dementia and Domestic Abuse – Dewis Choice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6gD3SqVnhM Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Welcome to the very first episode of Positive Voices, part of the DISCOVER Voices network by disAbility Cornwall. Hosted by Max – the volunteer host for this series and former trustee of Kernow Positive Support. This podcast aims to break stigma, share real stories, and shine a light on what it means to live well with HIV today. In this introductory episode, Max shares his own journey with HIV, reflects on decades of advocacy, and invites you to join the conversation. Whether you're living with HIV, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn more, Positive Voices is here to offer insight, support, and community. 🗣 Topics include: Lived experience of HIV Combating stigma and misinformation Support for families and carers Accessible education and advocacy in Cornwall and beyond 📩 Got questions or want to suggest a future episode topic? Leave a comment or reach out – your voice matters. 📢 Follow DISCOVER Voices for future episodes and more lived experience content. #HIVAwareness #PositiveVoices #HIVAIDSEducation #DisabilityCornwall #StigmaFree #Podcast #HIVPodcast

In this powerful episode of the Advocacy Fellows Podcast, we mark Learning Disability Week by exploring the theme "Do You See Me?" - a celebration of the contributions, achievements, and individuality of people with learning disabilities. The Advocacy Fellows take the mic to bust common myths and share real stories. They open up about being ignored or misunderstood, facing barriers to support and community, and the strength it takes to thrive despite these challenges. From hobbies and dreams to careers and life goals, they show the reality: people with learning disabilities lead rich, fulfilling lives. Tune in to hear voices that deserve to be heard - and ask yourself: Do you see me? Do you understand me? Will you include me? #LearningDisabilityWeek #DoYouSeeMe #DisabilityVoices #LDWeek2025 - Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode, Anna Lempriere from the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network is joined by the inspiring Grania McKittrick, Outreach and Development Lead at Lorenzo’s House – a U.S.-based nonprofit offering support for families affected by young onset dementia. Together, they explore how Lorenzo’s House was born from lived experience and the urgent need to support children and families navigating the challenges of dementia at a younger age. Grania shares how the charity helps build healing, connected communities while championing dementia justice. 👥 Whether you're a carer, a professional, or someone with lived experience, this conversation offers insight, empathy, and practical pathways to support. 🧠 Learn more about young onset dementia 🌍 Discover how international connections are helping people in Cornwall and beyond 💬 Hear about the powerful founding story of Lorenzo’s House 💛 Find out how to connect with services and support networks near you This series is created by the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly, to provide clear, supportive guidance for anyone affected by dementia.

For Learning Disability Week, the Advocacy Fellows are shining a light on special educational needs (SEND) and meeting the inspiring young ambassadors from SEND It Forward, a youth voice project within Action for Children Kernow Connect. 📚 With over 1.6 million pupils in England needing extra support and 400,000+ with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), we ask: are their voices being heard? 💬 Featuring: Olivia, Seren and Jack – sharing how they: 🔍 For more info on SENDitForward, visit SENDitForward | Kernow Connect | Services | Action for Children 🎧 Subscribe to stay updated on youth advocacy, inclusion, and the power of lived experience. #AdvocacyFellows #YouthVoice #LearningDisabilities #Cornwall #InclusionMatters DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, that includes captioning every video with closed captions. We apologise in advance for any slight grammatical errors with the captioning. Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode of Care to Speak, host Steve Horscroft sits down with Mandy May, a dedicated carer navigating the challenges of both professional and unpaid family care. Mandy shares her personal experiences caring for her mother, who has dementia and arthritis, as well as the journey of arranging support, accessing adult social care and ensuring her mum stays connected and engaged. 🧡 Topics covered: ✔️ Recognising early signs of dementia ✔️ The impact of social isolation during COVID-19 ✔️ Managing difficult conversations about independence ✔️ Finding and working with self-employed carers ✔️ The role of memory cafes and social activities ✔️ Accessing direct payments and navigating adult social care Mandy’s story highlights the realities of balancing family, work, and caregiving responsibilities while ensuring dignity and quality of life for loved ones. 🔗 Listen & Subscribe Catch Care to Speak on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon and other platforms. 💬 Join the Conversation Are you a carer? Share your experiences in the comments below. #CareToSpeak #DisabilityCornwall #DementiaCare #UnpaidCarers #AdultSocialCare #podcast #carerspodcast - Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

In this episode of the Dementia Together Toolkit podcast, Anna Lempriere speaks with Jane and Jay from the Cornwall Rural Community Charity (CRCC) about technology-enabled care and how digital support can improve life for people living with dementia and their carers. Learn how CRCC’s Digital Together project – in partnership with Cornwall Council and others – is making technology more accessible across Cornwall. From free tablet loans and digital skills training to helpful devices like Alexa and virtual reality tools, this episode explores how simple tech can enhance independence, safety, and connection. 🧠 Topics include: Digital lending schemes through CRCC and Cornwall Council Tech support and taster workshops in Memory Cafes Helping carers set reminders and manage routines Accessibility in rural areas Using Alexa, tablets, and VR to support wellbeing This series is created by the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly, to provide clear, supportive guidance for anyone affected by dementia.

In this episode of the Dementia Together Toolkit series, we speak with Karen Malkin, Clinical Lead Manager for the Dementia Liaison Service in Cornwall. Karen provides expert advice on the importance of early planning for dementia care, particularly focusing on the crucial steps to take before a diagnosis progresses. Karen explains how to navigate issues like mental capacity, and why it’s important to address them in the early stages of dementia. She also covers the legal considerations of setting up a lasting power of attorney and an advance care plan, ensuring that individuals living with dementia can have their wishes respected as their condition progresses. With valuable tips on ensuring that both individuals and their families are prepared for the journey ahead, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to make informed decisions about care and support. Tune in to hear how proactive planning can make a world of difference in ensuring a person’s dignity, choices, and wellbeing are upheld throughout their dementia journey. 🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟 Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance.

In this episode, we’re joined by Allison O'Kelly, an advanced clinical practitioner with extensive experience in the Memory Assessment Service in Cornwall. Alison shares her journey into dementia care, discussing the evolution of the Memory Assessment Service and its crucial role in diagnosing and supporting those with dementia. With a background in clinical practice, Alison explains how the service has expanded over the years, offering a range of support options including assessments, diagnoses, and follow-up care for individuals living with dementia. This podcast is relaxed, inclusive, and welcoming, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for reliable, supportive, and accessible information on dementia care. Whether you're a professional, a carer, or someone living with dementia, the Dementia Together Toolkit is here to provide expert advice, support, and hope for navigating the dementia pathway. 🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟 Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance. -

🎧 Listen to the podcast now and hear how your stories are helping to challenge policy, shift attitudes, and push for accessible, inclusive parking across Cornwall. A massive thank you to the 629 people who responded to our Blue Badge parking survey, especially the 250+ who shared detailed comments. Your voices have made one thing clear: the system is not working for many of us, and it's time for change. 🔍 What you told us: 44% faced delays or issues applying for or renewing their Blue Badge. 63% couldn’t pay for parking due to inaccessible systems. 80% avoid venues with poor disabled parking provision. 75% believe businesses are missing out on the £140 million spending potential of Cornish Blue Badge holders, the power of the Purple Pound. Your feedback has helped shape our special Blue Badge Day of Action podcast episode, featuring Cornwall Councillor Steven Webb and Steve Paget MBE. Together, we explore these issues and push for real action from those in power. A thank you to Councillor Steven Webb for producing this podcast, please do check out his podcast 'Stillness in the Storms' on Spotify, Apple and YouTube. Let’s make sure disabled people can access our towns, services and communities, not be shut out by poor parking design. #BlueBadgeDayOfAction #PurplePound #AccessibleCornwall #DisabilityCornwall #InclusionMatters #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #BlueBadgeParking

Let's Talk Bladder & Bowel Health In this essential episode, host Anna Lempriere speaks with bladder and bowel specialist Jordan Trevelyan about an often-overlooked aspect of dementia care. With compassion and clarity, Jordan offers practical advice, expert tips, and reassurance around common continence concerns faced by people living with dementia and those who support them. From early warning signs to product options, getting the right support, and tackling taboos, this conversation empowers listeners with the knowledge to navigate bladder and bowel health confidently and respectfully Whether you're living with dementia, a family member, or a professional carer, this episode is for you. 🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟 Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance.