Able to Care

Navigating Care Support: Tips for Families and Carers

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care podcast as he sits down with Dean from Grey Matters Consultancy to explore how families can plan for the future, access vital care and financial support, and navigate sensitive conversations about care needs. Dean shares his wealth of experience, from starting as a frontline care worker to managing a franchise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, vulnerabilities, or aging needs.
This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone seeking to secure support for themselves or their loved ones. Discover how proactive planning, understanding eligibility, and accessing resources like attendance allowance can transform lives and maintain independence. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and community support with Carer’s Card UK. Recognising and rewarding carers across the UK for less than the price of a box of chocolates a year. Visit Carer’s Card UK to learn more.
Grey Matters Consultancy: Helping families access support for care, financial planning, and more. Learn how their services make a difference in maintaining independence and quality of life.
Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge": A guide for caregivers and educators to build empathy, confidence, and effective de-escalation techniques.
Key Messages:
Understanding Attendance AllowanceDean explains the often-overlooked financial support for individuals over state pension age. Attendance allowance provides vital funds to support daily living needs and maintain independence.
Overcoming Barriers to AccessDiscover how complex forms and a lack of awareness can hinder access to support, and learn how Grey Matters Consultancy simplifies the process with their expertise.
Sensitive Conversations Around CareAndy and Dean discuss strategies for initiating compassionate and constructive conversations about future care needs with loved ones, focusing on empathy and mutual understanding.
TikTok for AwarenessDean shares how his TikTok channel delivers bite-sized advice, raising awareness and helping families navigate the care system.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Welcome and Carer’s Card UK introduction
00:01:24 - Dean's inspiring career journey
00:03:47 - Demystifying attendance allowance
00:12:25 - How to start sensitive conversations
00:24:14 - Overcoming barriers to financial and care support
00:32:00 - The role of TikTok in raising awareness
00:38:18 - Planning for the future
00:44:37 - Addressing common misconceptions
00:50:00 - Encouraging proactive planning
00:54:15 - Closing thoughts and resources
 
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Access exclusive podcast content, practical resources, and certified online courses. Sign up today at AbleHub.uk.
 

Emotions Matter: The Key to Calm and Connection

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast as he explores the fascinating phenomenon of emotional contagion—how emotions spread between individuals and influence group dynamics. Andy delves into the psychology behind emotional ripple effects and shares actionable strategies to manage behaviour in classrooms, workplaces, care environments, and even at home. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or leader, this episode equips you with the tools to create calm, positive, and resilient environments.
Andy explains how emotional states—like calmness, fear, or joy—are contagious and impact those around us. By recognising this ripple effect, you can manage not only your own responses but also the emotional tone of any setting. From mindfulness and self-regulation to practical de-escalation techniques, Andy provides a toolkit for navigating even the most challenging emotional situations.
This episode is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills in emotional regulation and behaviour management. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:
Carers Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and support tools with Carers Card UK, designed to reward and recognise carers across the UK.
Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge": A practical guide to understanding behaviour, fostering empathy, and building resilience. Learn more about the Target Model and improve your ability to de-escalate challenging situations effectively.
Key Messages:
The Ripple Effect of Emotions:Andy unpacks how emotions—positive or negative—spread within a group, influencing collective behaviour. By managing your emotional state, you can create a calming or energising effect that benefits everyone involved.
The Importance of Emotional Literacy:Recognising emotional contagion is the first step to harnessing its power. Emotional intelligence and literacy enable you to self-regulate and set the tone for those around you, fostering a positive environment.
Practical Tools for Emotional Regulation:Andy introduces strategies like mindfulness, breathing exercises, and emotional buffers to help you respond—rather than react—to challenging situations. These tools allow you to anchor your emotions and create a ripple effect of calm.
Modelling Healthy Responses:Emotions like frustration or anxiety are natural, but expressing them constructively is key. Andy emphasises the importance of open communication and demonstrating self-regulation to influence others positively.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to emotional contagion and its impact on behaviour00:01:24 - Carers Card UK sponsorship and benefits for carers00:02:18 - Emotional contagion explained: How emotions spread unconsciously00:03:47 - Real-world examples: Laughter epidemics and stress spillovers00:06:17 - Strategies for becoming an emotional anchor in challenging situations00:07:32 - Building a self-regulation toolkit: Breathing, mindfulness, and pauses00:10:11 - Creating emotional buffers and modelling healthy responses00:12:25 - Andy’s book, Targeting the Positive, and the Target Model for behaviour management
Stay Connected!
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss future conversations filled with practical strategies for caregivers, educators, and leaders. Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast and connect with us on social media for updates and insights:
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Keep Learning with AbleHub!
Looking for more resources to support your work as a caregiver, educator, or advocate? Join the AbleHub community for exclusive podcast content, practical resources, certified online courses, and interactive events.
With over 45 courses covering essential topics like self-care, dementia support, conflict management, and neurodiversity, AbleHub equips you with the tools and strategies to make a real difference.
👉 Sign up today at AbleHub.uk for a 14-day free trial and gain access to a wealth of knowledge for less than the price of a coffee per week.

Living with Dementia: Peter Middleton’s Inspiring Journey

Join Andy Baker, Nadeen Sutton, and guest Peter Middleton as they explore the lived experience of dementia, breaking stigmas and inspiring hope.
In this heartfelt episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy Baker and co-host Nadeen Sutton are joined by Peter Middleton, an inspiring advocate with lived experience of dementia. Diagnosed five years ago, Peter shares his journey of navigating life with dementia, breaking down myths and misconceptions, and discovering ways to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Peter offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with dementia and their families, discussing topics such as the importance of early diagnosis, the stigma surrounding dementia, and the power of positivity and connection. This episode provides practical strategies for carers, educators, and advocates while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
🎧 Sponsors:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Get your card today.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
Knowledge is Power booklet: Order here
Dementia Friends initiative: Learn more
Missing Persons Protocol: Find resources
🔑 Key Messages:
Challenging Stigmas and Misconceptions:Peter shares how dementia is often misunderstood, highlighting the importance of seeing the individual beyond the diagnosis and recognising their capabilities and contributions.
The Importance of Coping Strategies:Practical tools like medication organisers, community connections, and simple routines can transform daily life for individuals with dementia and their families.
Positivity and Purpose in Dementia Advocacy:By sharing his journey and engaging in advocacy work, Peter demonstrates how living with dementia can inspire others, foster hope, and create lasting impact.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):00:00 – 03:00: Episode Introduction and Carers Card UK Sponsorship03:01 – 12:00: Peter’s Journey with Dementia: From Diagnosis to Advocacy12:01 – 22:00: Breaking Myths: Driving, Stigma, and Everyday Challenges22:01 – 30:00: Building Coping Strategies: Tools and Techniques for Daily Life30:01 – 40:00: Supporting Carers: Emotional and Practical Perspectives40:01 – 50:00: Advocacy in Action: Peter’s Work and Future Goals50:01 – 60:00: Finding Positivity and Purpose in Living with Dementia
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?This episode offers a deeply personal and inspiring look at life with dementia, blending Peter’s wisdom and advocacy with practical advice for carers and supporters. Learn how to:
Break down common misconceptions about dementia.
Build practical coping strategies for everyday life.
Foster resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.
Whether you’re a carer, educator, or someone interested in learning more about dementia, this episode provides a wealth of insights and inspiration.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to empower carers, educators, and leaders. Sign up for a 14-day free trial today!
If this episode resonated with you, please like, comment, and share to help us spread awareness and support more carers and individuals navigating life with dementia. Together, we can make a difference!
 

Social Conditioning: The Key to Better Behaviour Management

In this insightful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker dives into the fascinating world of social conditioning and its profound impact on behaviour. From the early days of childhood to complex adult interactions, Andy explores how behaviours are shaped by norms, expectations, and the environments we navigate daily. He challenges traditional punishment-and-reward models of behaviour management, offering a fresh perspective grounded in research and practical strategies.
Drawing on experiments like the Solomon Asch Conformity Study and the Bobo Doll Experiment, Andy provides actionable advice for caregivers, teachers, and leaders looking to foster positive behaviours. Whether you're working with children, supporting adults, or leading a team, this episode is packed with insights to help you create environments that promote respect, connection, and growth.
💡 Sponsors:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support—all for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Visit Carers Card UK today to order yours.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
Solomon Asch Conformity Experiment: Insights into the power of peer influence.
Bobo Doll Experiment: Understanding how observation shapes behaviour.
Andy Baker’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge—a practical guide to behaviour management.
Able Hub: Access exclusive resources, certified courses, and a supportive community at AbleHub.uk.
🔑 Key Messages:
The Role of Social Conditioning:Social conditioning shapes behaviours through interactions, norms, and cues, starting from early childhood.
Moving Beyond Punishment-and-Reward Models:Traditional approaches often fail to address the root causes of behaviours. Instead, focus on the influence of environments and social norms.
Practical Behaviour Management Strategies:
Create supportive environments: Model and reinforce desired behaviours through clear expectations and boundaries.
Lead by example: Actions speak louder than words; consistency is key.
Encourage positive reinforcement: Recognise and celebrate respectful, calm, and constructive interactions.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):00:00 – 02:00: Introduction to social conditioning02:01 – 07:00: Moving beyond punishment-and-reward behaviour models07:01 – 14:00: Key experiments that highlight the power of social norms14:01 – 20:00: Practical applications for behaviour management20:01 – 25:00: Building positive environments in schools, homes, and workplaces25:01 – End: Final thoughts on the transformative power of understanding social conditioning
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?This episode offers a fresh perspective on understanding and managing behaviour through the lens of social conditioning. By unpacking the science behind social norms and their influence, Andy Baker equips listeners with the tools to:
Design environments that promote positive behaviour.
Recognise the role of peer influence and modelling.
Foster respectful, supportive cultures in any setting.
If you’re ready to rethink behaviour management and embrace connection over control, this episode is for you.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to support carers, teachers, and parents. Start your 14-day free trial today!
Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from these transformative insights. Together, we can create positive change!

Transforming Childhood Trauma with Sarah Naish

In this insightful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, we welcome the renowned Sarah Naish—author, speaker, and advocate for therapeutic parenting. Sarah draws from her experience as the mother of five adopted children and her extensive work in fostering and adoption support. She discusses the transformative power of trauma-informed practices and offers practical strategies for caregivers and professionals navigating the complexities of parenting children with trauma histories. Whether you're a parent, carer, teacher, or social worker, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights.
💡 Sponsors:
This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Get your card today at Carers Card UK.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
National Association of Therapeutic Parents
Sarah Naish’s books:
The A to Z of Therapeutic Parenting
The Complete Guide to Therapeutic Parenting
Tips Magazine
Therapeutic Parenting in a Nutshell
Free online resources and videos on trauma-informed parenting: Sarah Naish’s YouTube Channel
🔑 Key Messages:
The Foundations of Therapeutic Parenting:Therapeutic parenting shifts the focus from reacting to behaviours to understanding their root causes and responding with compassion and structure.
Essential Maintenance for Carers:Reframe self-care as "essential maintenance" to ensure caregivers have the resilience to support children effectively.
Trauma-Informed Practices in Education:Schools and professionals must adopt trauma-informed approaches, ensuring consistency, predictability, and empathy in their interactions with children.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):
00:00 – 03:00: Introduction
03:01 – 07:00: Sarah Naish’s journey into therapeutic parenting
07:01 – 14:00: Understanding trauma-informed parenting principles
14:01 – 22:00: Addressing challenges like sleep issues and controlling behaviours
22:01 – 30:00: Importance of self-care for carers and professionals
30:01 – 38:00: Practical strategies for building trust and resilience in children
38:01 – 45:00: Trauma-informed education and cultural change in schools
45:01 – 54:00: Supporting foster and kinship carers through systemic barriers
54:01 – End: Final thoughts and Sarah’s key message: “Don’t beat yourself up—every day is a new opportunity.”
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?
This episode provides a compassionate and practical guide to navigating the challenges of parenting and caring for children with trauma histories. With Sarah Naish’s expert advice, you'll learn how to:
Implement therapeutic parenting strategies.
Build resilience and trust in children.
Create trauma-informed environments at home, school, and beyond.
If you’re ready to rethink traditional parenting models and embrace a trauma-informed mindset, this episode is for you.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:
Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to support carers, teachers, and parents. Get your 14-day free trial today!
Don't forget to like, comment, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Sarah’s invaluable insights. Together, we can make a difference!

What You Need to Know About Managing Behaviour That Challenges

Are you a caregiver, educator, or parent struggling to manage behaviours that challenge? This episode of the Able to Care Podcast is packed with actionable strategies to help you navigate these situations with confidence and compassion.
Host Andy Baker shares three essential tips that can make a big difference in reducing stress, promoting positive behaviours, and improving outcomes for everyone involved.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ How to Focus on Positives: Shift your mindset to encourage the behaviours you want to see, not just react to the negative.✅ The Power of Responding Over Reacting: Discover why staying calm and rational is the key to successful de-escalation.✅ Why Self-Awareness Matters: Learn how your own emotional regulation can improve interactions and outcomes.
Whether you’re managing challenging behaviours at home, in a classroom, or in a care setting, this 11-minute episode is full of practical advice to help you create positive change today.
🎧 Key Timestamps (Chapters):00:00:00 - Behaviour management tips to change your approach00:01:00 - Welcome to the Able to Care Podcast00:02:00 - Why managing distress is essential for challenging behaviours00:03:00 - Tip 1: Focus on positives—what you want to see00:05:00 - Examples of adaptive vs maladaptive behaviours00:07:00 - Tip 2: Responding over reacting—calm is contagious00:08:00 - How emotional reactions escalate situations00:09:00 - Tip 3: The importance of self-awareness and self-care00:10:00 - Recap of the top three tips and final thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Access exclusive discounts, a wellbeing hub, and community support with Carer’s Card UK. Visit to sign up today.
Andy’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge offers practical de-escalation strategies, insights into behaviour management, and tips to foster meaningful connections. Find it on Amazon here!
🌟 Why Listen to This Episode?Managing challenging behaviours doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Andy Baker brings decades of experience and a compassionate, practical approach to behaviour management. Tune in to discover how small changes can lead to big improvements in your care, teaching, or parenting journey.
🎙️ Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert insights and practical advice for caregivers, educators, and advocates.
Stay Connected and InformedFollow us on social media for updates and resources:
Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn & Facebook: Able Training
Looking for more support? Explore AbleHub.uk—your go-to resource hub for caregivers and educators. Sign up for a free 14-day trial today!
🎧 Listen NowClick play to take the first step towards building better connections, reducing distress, and empowering positive behaviour management!

Understanding Dementia: Insights from Teepa Snow

Join Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast as he sits down with Teepa Snow, one of the world’s foremost dementia care educators, to explore practical techniques for compassionate caregiving.
Teepa shares insights from her renowned Positive Approach to Care model, offering strategies that help caregivers connect meaningfully, respond to behavioural challenges, and support individuals with dignity and respect. This episode is packed with actionable advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals working with those living with dementia. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Enjoy exclusive discounts, wellbeing resources, and tools designed to support carers across the UK. Learn more at Carer’s Card UK.Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care: Find videos, training, and resources to enhance dementia care at teepasnow.com.
Key Messages:
Building Connection Through Positive Approach TechniquesTeepa introduces the Hand-Under-Hand technique to foster trust and mutual respect in caregiving relationships. This approach transforms caregiving into a partnership rather than a task.
Recognising and Preventing BurnoutCaregivers must prioritise their wellbeing to sustain high-quality care. Teepa shares tips for recognising burnout and finding moments of joy in caregiving.
Proactive Care Planning for Dementia ProgressionTeepa stresses the importance of planning ahead and building relationships early to adapt effectively to the changing needs of individuals living with dementia.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00:00 - IntroductionAndy introduces this episode’s sponsor, Carer’s Card UK, and the benefits of the programme.
00:02:00 - Welcome and Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to CareAndy introduces Teepa and her pioneering work in dementia care.
00:04:15 - What Makes Dementia Care Different?Teepa explains the unique challenges of supporting individuals with dementia and how caregivers can adapt.
00:08:30 - Understanding Behavioural Changes in DementiaInsights into interpreting behaviours as communication and responding with empathy.
00:12:45 - The Hand-Under-Hand TechniqueA step-by-step guide to Teepa’s foundational caregiving tool, fostering connection and collaboration.
00:18:10 - Preventing Caregiver BurnoutTeepa shares practical self-care tips and strategies for staying resilient in caregiving roles.
00:23:30 - Adapting to Changing Needs in Dementia ProgressionThe importance of proactive planning and building trust early in the caregiving relationship.
00:29:00 - Resources for Dementia CareTeepa highlights free and paid tools available through Positive Approach to Care to support caregivers.
00:31:00 - Responding to Distress and De-escalation TechniquesHow to calmly address and de-escalate situations when individuals with dementia become upset or agitated.
00:37:00 - The Role of Environment in Dementia CareTeepa discusses how lighting, noise, and furniture placement can influence behaviours and comfort levels.
00:43:00 - Finding Moments of Joy in Dementia CarePractical tips for creating joyful moments that benefit both caregivers and those they support.
00:48:00 - Breaking Down Common Caregiving MythsTeepa debunks misconceptions about dementia care and highlights the importance of empathy and flexibility.
00:52:00 - Final Advice and Key TakeawaysTeepa wraps up with her core message: focus on what remains, not what’s lost, in dementia care.
00:54:00 - Closing RemarksAndy encourages listeners to explore Teepa’s resources and shares how to stay connected with the Able to Care Podcast.
Stay Connected!If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more insights and strategies from experts in care, education, and advocacy. Follow us on social media:
LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
Discover More with AbleHub!Looking for more practical tools and resources for caregivers, educators, and advocates? Join AbleHub, a comprehensive online platform with over 45 courses, exclusive podcast content, and interactive events. From dementia care to conflict management, AbleHub offers affordable, practical training to empower you.
Start your journey with a free 14-day trial today at AbleHub.uk.

How Trauma Shapes Behaviour

In this engaging episode, host Andy Baker uncovers the connection between challenging behaviour and emotional dysregulation, highlighting how trauma impacts responses to stress. Explore the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn survival responses and gain valuable insights into creating trauma-informed approaches for caregivers, educators, and support professionals. Discover how understanding these behaviours can lead to safer, more empathetic environments.
Resources Mentioned:
Carer's Card UK (Sponsor)Carer's Card UK offers essential support for carers, providing discounts on everyday items, gym memberships, and more. Access their Wellbeing Hub, Carers Circle tool, and ID card for less than the cost of a box of chocolates per year. Visit Carer's Card UK today!
Targeting the Positive by Andy BakerLearn how to manage challenging behaviours with evidence-based techniques from Andy’s transformative book. Develop empathy, confidence, and tools to improve outcomes for those you support. Available worldwide—order your copy today from online bookstores.
Key Messages:
What Causes Challenging Behaviour?Understand how emotional dysregulation and past trauma shape behaviours often labelled as "challenging," and why they are better viewed as cries for help.
Breaking Down Survival ResponsesAndy explores the fight, flight, freeze, and fawn responses and their role in shaping behaviours, offering practical guidance for caregivers to respond compassionately.
Trauma-Informed ApproachesDiscover how past trauma triggers present behaviours and learn strategies to create safe, supportive environments for healing and growth.
Transforming PerceptionsLearn how to move beyond punishment to provide understanding and connection, fostering trust and better relationships.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction: Challenging behaviours as a cry for help.
00:01:34 - Emotional dysregulation and its link to challenging behaviours.
00:02:05 - Fight, flight, freeze, and fawn: The four survival responses explained.
00:04:37 - The concept of amygdala hijacking and its impact on behaviour.
00:05:58 - Trauma-informed care: Recognising triggers and "invisible lions."
00:10:37 - Practical examples of behaviours rooted in fear, not badness.
00:12:58 - Identifying survival responses and supporting emotional regulation.
00:13:50 - Shifting from punishment to creating a sense of safety.
00:14:06 - Join AbleHub for exclusive content and resources.
Join AbleHub for Expert Resources and Support!
Take your learning further with AbleHub, an online platform designed for caregivers, educators, and advocates. Access exclusive podcast content, certified online courses, live events, and a comprehensive library of resources. Topics include dementia care, self-care, conflict management, neurodiversity, and more.
💡 Try AbleHub free for 14 days—no contracts, cancel anytime.👉 Visit AbleHub.uk and join a community empowering you with the tools and knowledge to provide exceptional care.
Stay Connected and Subscribe!
Stay informed with The Able to Care Podcast! Subscribe now for expert insights and actionable strategies on managing challenging behaviours and improving outcomes for caregivers and educators.
Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content:
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This episode is essential for anyone seeking to better understand challenging behaviours and implement trauma-informed strategies in caregiving, teaching, or support roles.

Author Andy Baker on 'Targeting the Positive' – A New Approach to Behaviour

In this insightful episode, former guest Tem interviews host Andy Baker about his new book, Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge. Together, they discuss the core mission behind Andy’s work: providing practical tools and strategies to empower caregivers, educators, and support workers facing challenging behaviours. Andy shares personal stories and practical insights, shedding light on how understanding, empathy, and strategic techniques can reshape challenging interactions. From Andy’s Six-Stage Target Model to insights on attachment theory and human rights, this episode offers listeners an in-depth look at how to respond to difficult behaviours thoughtfully and effectively.
Resources Mentioned:
Carer's Card UK (Sponsor): Carer's Card UK is the UK’s leading discount card for carers, providing exclusive savings on everyday essentials and wellness products. From gym memberships to clothing discounts, Carer's Card UK offers support, recognition, and a community for carers. Visit Carer's Card UK here to sign up today!
Targeting the Positive by Andy Baker: Andy’s new book equips readers with evidence-based techniques for managing challenging behaviours through empathy, resilience, and understanding. Learn how to build connections, achieve de-escalation, and create positive outcomes for everyone involved.
Key Messages:
Andy’s Journey to Behaviour ManagementAndy shares the personal experiences that inspired him to explore behaviour management, from early confrontations to his journey of understanding trauma, attachment, and the psychology behind challenging behaviours.
Reframing “Challenging Behaviour” as “Behaviours that Challenge”Shifting language changes perspectives. By viewing behaviours as challenges, caregivers and professionals can approach situations with a mindset geared toward growth, resilience, and empathy.
The Six-Stage Target Model for Proactive Behaviour ManagementAndy’s model—Identify, Understand, Plan, Recognise Escalation, Respond, and Learn—offers a structured framework to analyse and address challenging behaviours. This model helps caregivers identify and respond to behaviours while supporting self-reflection and emotional literacy.
Attachment Theory and Human Rights in Behavioural SupportTem and Andy discuss how understanding attachment theory and upholding human rights can shape more compassionate and effective behaviour management, especially in education and caregiving.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Carer's Card UK, our episode sponsor.
00:01:26 - Tem welcomes Andy and begins the interview on Andy’s motivation behind Targeting the Positive.
00:02:21 - Andy’s story: How a personal confrontation led to a lifelong interest in understanding behaviour.
00:04:08 - Reframing language around behaviour to foster empathy and understanding.
00:05:37 - Exploring the Six-Stage Target Model: Andy’s framework for addressing behaviours that challenge.
00:09:09 - Recognising escalation in both the individual and oneself.
00:16:08 - The impact of attachment theory on managing behaviours.
00:27:00 - Understanding human rights and ethical considerations in behavioural management.
00:32:27 - Final reflections on empathy, compassion, and building better connections.
00:48:51 - Andy’s vision for Targeting the Positive: Supporting caregivers, educators, and more.
00:50:02 - Promo for Targeting the Positive by Andy Baker.
Stay Connected and Keep Learning with AbleHub!
Expand your resources and deepen your skills with AbleHub, a dedicated community platform for carers, teachers, and support professionals. As an AbleHub member, you gain access to exclusive podcast content, a vast resource library, live events, and certified online courses covering topics like dementia care, neurodiversity, conflict management, and self-care. Start your free 14-day trial and join a supportive network that empowers you to make a difference.
👉 Learn more and sign up at AbleHub.uk
Stay Connected!Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more insightful episodes, and follow us on social media at @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Don’t miss out on empowering strategies and stories from the field of caregiving, education, and social support.
This episode is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of behaviour management and gain practical tools to create positive outcomes in challenging situations.

How to Calm Challenging Behaviours: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care podcast as he shares powerful strategies for de-escalating challenging behaviours through the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect approach. Andy explains each step of this practical model, offering insights on how caregivers, educators, and social workers can communicate calmly, validate emotions, and foster safer interactions. He highlights the importance of framing intentions, staying calm, and prompting positive actions to support individuals experiencing emotional distress.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their skills in managing difficult behaviours in care environments, classrooms, or at home. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and support tools with Carer’s Card UK, designed to reward and recognise carers across the UK.
Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge": A guide to understanding behaviour, building connections, and effective de-escalation techniques for caregivers and educators.
Key Messages:
The HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect Model for De-escalationAndy introduces the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect model, a structured approach to addressing escalating situations by prioritising understanding, calm communication, and positive reinforcement.
Framing Intentions and Offering SupportOne of the first steps in any de-escalation scenario is setting clear, supportive intentions. By stating, “I’m here to help, not to judge,” caregivers can create a safe space that diffuses potential defensiveness.
Effective Prompts for Positive ActionAndy stresses prompting desired behaviours, such as “Keep your hands to yourself,” rather than focusing on what not to do. This positive reinforcement encourages constructive behaviour.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to the Carer’s Card UK and benefits for carers
00:01:24 - Welcome to this episode and introduction to the HELP-Prompt-Wait-Protect model
00:01:49 - Defining de-escalation and the importance of positive reinforcement
00:03:47 - Framing intentions and creating a safe space in challenging situations
00:05:18 - The "HELP" acronym explained for assessing needs and sources of distress
00:05:58 - Prompting positive behaviours and avoiding “don’t” language
00:09:00 - The "Wait" stage: allowing space for self-regulation while remaining calm
00:10:19 - The "Protect" stage: Dynamic risk assessment and prioritising safety
00:12:25 - Andy’s book, Targeting the Positive, and building skills in behaviour management
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