Able to Care

The episode that nearly wasn't shared- Reflecting back to season one

In this special episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker takes a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of Season 1. After more than a year and a half since starting the podcast with just one episode a month, Andy shares how the podcast has evolved, now releasing two episodes per week. He speaks candidly about the meaningful connections he’s made, the growth of the podcast, and his excitement for the future, with Season 2 set to launch on 5th November.
Key Moments:
Reflecting on the Podcast’s Growth: Andy talks about how the podcast started as a way to give back and connect with others, but over time, it has become much more. He now releases weekly interviews alongside solo episodes, which has led to incredible engagement and connections with listeners.
The Impact of the Podcast: Andy shares the deep impact the podcast has had, including some of the episodes that stand out to him:
Panorama Review Episode: One of the earlier episodes where Andy and co-host Nadine discussed a Panorama investigation into abuse in a hospital setting. This episode opened important conversations around improving care, without demonising the care industry. It was a catalyst for opening up dialogue around gaps in knowledge and understanding.
Men’s Mental Health Episode: Andy reflects on a particularly personal episode that resonated deeply with listeners, where he and Nadine discussed men’s mental health, male suicide, and their own experiences. Andy shares how this episode was tough to release, but it ended up connecting with listeners in a profound way. He recalls moments where men who had listened to the episode personally thanked him for sharing his vulnerability.
Upcoming in Season 2:
Andy teases what’s to come in Season 2, with new episodes launching on 5th November. He mentions exciting guest interviews already lined up and shares his enthusiasm for continuing both interview and solo episodes.
The Able Hub Launch: Andy introduces the Able Hub, a new initiative launching in November, which will provide free resources, e-learning, and accessible materials to help caregivers, teachers, and parents expand their knowledge and skills.
Listener Takeaways:
Revisiting Classic Episodes: Over the next few weeks, the podcast will re-release some of its most impactful episodes, giving listeners a chance to revisit powerful discussions or catch up on what they may have missed. These "classic" episodes will be highlighted every Tuesday.
A Call to Share and Engage: Andy encourages listeners to share their favourite episodes, give feedback, and connect with others who might benefit from the discussions. He emphasises the importance of continuing to spread knowledge and support within the caregiving community.
Closing Thoughts:
As Season 1 comes to an end, Andy thanks listeners for their ongoing support and engagement. He reflects on the power of the podcast in creating a space for open, honest conversations and looks forward to the launch of Season 2.
Don’t forget to tune in on 5th November for the Season 2 premiere!
Key Episodes Mentioned:
Panorama Undercover Hospital Review (Episode 03)
Men’s Mental Health and Vulnerability (Episode 14)
Connect with Us:
If you’ve found value in this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and share it with your network.
Visit ablehub.uk for access to incredible resources and community

The Blue Badge Bunch and Living with Cerebral Palsy -Re-visiting The Episode with Benny Shakes

As we draw season 1 of The Able to Care Podcast, to a close we revisit some old favourite episodes from our very first year. Season two starts on the 5th of November - remember remember!
On this recording Andy Baker and co-host Nadine Sutton are joined by stand-up comedian and disability advocate Benny Shakes. Benny shares his inspiring journey living with cerebral palsy (CP) and how it has shaped his career as a speaker and comedian. He discusses his challenges growing up, the stigma around disabilities, and his mission to raise awareness through his comedy and talks in schools.
Benny opens up about his childhood experiences, including how he wasn't fully aware of his condition until his teenage years, and how that realisation impacted his mental health. He talks candidly about the difficult times he faced, including turning to alcohol, and how he eventually found his purpose through comedy. Benny also reflects on the role his parents played in helping him navigate his disability and how their push for independence helped him become the person he is today.
Key Points Discussed:
Benny’s journey with spastic cerebral palsy, from diagnosis at a young age to finding his identity as a teenager.
The mental health challenges he faced growing up with CP and how he overcame them.
The different types of cerebral palsy and their impact on mobility and daily living.
Benny’s work as a disability awareness speaker in schools and corporate settings, promoting respect and understanding for people with disabilities.
The importance of respect, representation, and the role of comedy in addressing misconceptions around disability.
Benny’s experience at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the launch of his project, Blue Badge Bunch.
Benny's unique perspective, humour, and resilience make this episode an enlightening listen for anyone interested in disability awareness, mental health, and personal growth.
Connect with Benny Shakes:
Website: Blue Badge Bunch
Blue Badge Bunch is a disability awareness game show designed to educate and entertain audiences while breaking down stereotypes.
Be sure to check out Benny's latest comedy show Benny Shakes Gets Respect and his book Blue Badge Bunch with Benny Shakes, available on Amazon. You can also reach out to Benny for signed copies or bookings via the contact information provided on his website.
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

Understanding Grief: The 5 Stages Explained

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the widely known Kubler-Ross model, or the Five Stages of Grief. While commonly linked to the experience of losing a loved one, Andy reveals how these stages—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—apply to a range of significant life changes, from job loss to major personal transitions. With personal insights and real-life examples, Andy explains how grief is not a straightforward, linear process but rather one that can revisit us unexpectedly. This episode highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and supporting others through their unique grief journeys. Tune in to learn how recognising these stages can help both in self-reflection and in offering support to those facing loss.
Key Messages:
The Universal Nature of GriefGrief is not limited to the loss of a loved one; it can arise from any significant change or transition, like losing a job, a relationship, or even a lifestyle. Understanding the Five Stages of Grief helps recognise these emotions in various life situations.
Grief is a Non-Linear ProcessWhile the stages of grief are often shown in a progressive order, individuals can experience them in different sequences, and they may revisit certain stages multiple times. There is no set timeline or path for processing grief.
Empathy and Connection are Crucial in Supporting GriefEmpathy and understanding are key when supporting someone going through grief. Offering appropriate support means allowing them to process their emotions naturally and resisting the urge to push them to "move on" too quickly.
Key Timestamps
 
00:00 – Introduction 
00:22 – Overview of the Kubler-Ross Model
01:08 – Denial: First Stage of Grief
03:13 – Anger: Processing the Reality of Loss
05:34 – Bargaining: Searching for Control
07:56 – Depression: Acknowledging the Emotional Weight
10:06 – Acceptance & Moving Forward
15:11 – Empathy and Supporting Others in Grief
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

Dementia and Therapy: How to Get the Best Care

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker speaks with Kate Thubron, a trained occupational therapist and dementia care expert. Kate shares her journey from working in multiple care settings across the UK and abroad, to her passion for improving dementia care through the Montessori approach and cognitive stimulation therapy (CST). Kate discusses her experiences working with Teepa Snow’s Positive Approaches to Care model and how mindfulness and meditation practices enhance her training.
 
Key Messages:
Personalised Dementia Care with the Montessori ApproachKate explains how the Montessori approach tailors care to each individual's needs, promoting independence and maintaining cognitive abilities through meaningful activities
Empowering Independence While Managing RiskKate emphasises the importance of balancing risk with freedom in dementia care, allowing residents to maintain skills and autonomy while staying safe3. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) as an Essential ToolKate highlights CST’s proven benefits in improving cognitive function for people with dementia, advocating for its wider use to enhance mental stimulation and quality of life.
 
Key Timestamps:
 
00:00:00 - Introduction and Sponsorship
00:01:00 - Kate's Career Background
00:06:30 - Working Overseas in Mombasa
00:12:00 - The Montessori Approach to Dementia Care
00:18:30 - Addressing Risk and Maintaining Independence
00:24:00 - Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Overview00:30:00 - Family Involvement in Dementia Care00:35:30 - Training and Support for Care Staff00:43:00 - Teepa Snow's Positive Approach to Care
00:50:00 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways
 
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

How to Set Boundaries and Resolve Conflict with Kids

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into an effective negotiation technique that’s versatile enough to be used in a variety of settings – from managing relationships within a household to navigating conflicts in the workplace. Inspired by an approach he discovered in a book on ADHD, Andy shares how this strategy can help set rules and boundaries in a fair and non-confrontational manner, giving all parties a voice. Whether you're a caregiver, teacher, or parent, this episode offers practical tools to resolve conflicts and improve collaboration with those you support.Looking for more on this topic?Check out Andy's upcoming book Targeting the Positive, launching in November 2024, which provides in-depth strategies on managing behaviours and building positive relationships.Key Messages:The collaborative negotiation technique allows all parties, including caregivers and children, to express their viewpoints and jointly find a solution.It encourages the use of non-confrontational language, reducing defensiveness and promoting understanding.The strategy is flexible enough to be applied to a range of scenarios, from managing behaviours in children with ADHD or PDA to resolving disputes in professional settings.Key Timestamps:[00:00:25] – Introduction to the negotiation technique.[00:01:00] – How the technique applies to children with ADHD or PDA.[00:03:00] – Setting rules and boundaries collaboratively.[00:05:00] – Example: Addressing morning routine challenges with children.[00:08:00] – Using the technique in professional and personal relationships.[00:11:00] – Voting on proposed solutions: A fair and visual approach.[00:14:00] – How to brainstorm and evaluate ideas with plus and minus ratings.[00:17:00] – The importance of maintaining boundaries with empathy and understanding.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

Building A Speak Up Care Culture. Safeguarding and Whistleblowing with Sean Keep.

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker explores the essential topic of whistleblowing and creating a speaking up culture within organisations. Joined by Sean Keep, founder and co-director of SaySo, an independent whistleblowing service, the episode dives into how whistleblowing works and the importance of fostering a transparent and open environment. This benefits both businesses and staff by improving workplace safety and culture. With over 30 years of experience in law enforcement, Sean shares his expertise in safeguarding vulnerable individuals, why whistleblowing is important, and how it prevents serious incidents through early reporting. Learn how independent whistleblowing services like SaySo protect staff, answer questions like can whistleblowing be anonymous, enhance trust, and save organisations time and money by addressing problems early on.SaySo: https://www.say-so.co.uk/Key Messages:Independent whistleblowing services like SaySo provide a safe and anonymous platform for staff to report concerns, leading to early intervention and preventing larger issues from escalating.Building a speaking up culture improves staff morale, reduces turnover, and leads to better business outcomes by addressing the problems early.The negative connotations of whistle blowing should be shifted towards positive reporting, focusing on early intervention and maintaining high care standards.Key Timestamps:[00:00:25] – Introduction to whistleblowing and speaking up in care organisations.[00:01:00] – Sean Keep’s background in public protection and safeguarding.[00:02:15] – Founding of SaySo: Addressing the need for independent reporting in care.[00:08:00] – Encouraging early reporting to prevent serious incidents in care homes.[00:18:00] – Challenges of implementing a speaking-up culture and staff fears.[00:29:00] – Financial benefits of early reporting: Saving £20,000 per incident.[00:39:00] – Reframing ‘whistleblowing’ as proactive reporting and early intervention.[00:52:00] – Steps to build a speaking-up culture with independent services.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#Whistleblowing #SpeakingUp #CareSector #Safeguarding #PublicProtection #CareHomes #StaffWellbeing #IncidentReporting #SaySoService #SpeakUpCulture #CareStaffSupport #IndependentReporting #WorkplaceSafety #EarlyIntervention #CareProvider #EmployeeVoice #WhistleblowerProtection #HealthcareLeadership #CaregiverSupport #PreventingAbuse #HowWhistleblowingWorks #CanWhistleblowingBeAnonymous #WhyWhistleblowingIsImportant #WhistleblowingWhoToReportTo

Mastering Emotional Regulation with the Incredible 5-Point Scale: A Guide for Caregivers and Educators

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, Andy Baker delves into the Incredible 5-Point Scale, a simple yet effective tool originally developed to help individuals on the autistic spectrum understand and manage their emotions. Andy explains how this scale can be used as a powerful tool for emotional literacy and self-regulation, not only for children but also for caregivers and adults. Learn how this system helps track emotional intensity, develop awareness, and foster better communication, all while offering practical tips for implementing it in everyday life.5 Point Scale Website: https://www.5pointscale.com/Key Timestamps:00:00:00- Introduction to the Incredible 5-Point Scale00:01:02 - Explaining the Scale's Purpose00:02:55 - Emotional Literacy and Management00:04:19 - Levels of the 5-Point Scale00:07:27 - Using the Scale for Self-Care and Caregiving00:13:29 - Practical Tips for Implementing the ScaleKey Messages:Understanding Emotional Intensity:The Incredible 5-Point Scale helps individuals better comprehend and communicate their emotional intensity, offering a simple framework for managing emotions from calm to full distress.A Tool for Caregivers and Adults:Originally designed for children, the scale is also a valuable self-care tool for adults and caregivers, enhancing emotional awareness and improving interactions with those they support.Practical Emotional Management:By identifying emotional states and learning coping strategies, the scale allows individuals to take action at the right moment, preventing emotional escalation and fostering healthier responses.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

Breaking Generational Trauma: Kirstie Woolley on Healing Children and Families

Join Andy Baker and co-host Nadine on the Able to Care podcast as they explore the transformative power of trauma-informed care with Kirstie Wooley, founder of Lunar Mind. In this insightful episode, Kirstie shares her personal journey through childhood trauma and her mission to help children and families overcome attachment and trauma challenges. Discover the limitations of the social work system, the critical need for early intervention, and Kirstie 's bespoke therapeutic approaches to supporting children in care and family breakdowns. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with real-life insights and practical solutions for fostering healing and resilience.Lunar Mind: https://www.lunarmind.co.uk/Safe And Sound: https://www.safeandsoundgroup.org.uk/00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – Starting Lunar Mind 03:30 – Challenges of Working in Social Work05:45 – Breaking Generational Trauma10:30 – Lack of Bespoke Mental Health Care13:30 – The Importance of Family-Centred Support24:30 – Working with Residential Care Homes30:00 – School Systems and Support for Children with ACEs38:00 – The Need for Change in Care and School Systems55:00 – Closing Thoughts and the Vision for Lunar MindBreaking the Cycle of Generational Trauma: Kirstie Woolley shares how her personal experiences of childhood trauma and care led her to create Lunar Mind, aiming to support families and children in breaking destructive patterns and fostering healing.The Importance of Early Intervention and Bespoke Care:Kirstie emphasises that early intervention and tailored support are vital in addressing trauma and attachment issues, particularly for children in care and families facing breakdowns.Empathy and Trauma-Informed Approaches: Highlighting the need for a more compassionate and trauma-informed system, Kirstie discusses the importance of empathy and understanding in working with children and families to promote emotional well-being and long-term recovery.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

The Science Behind Habit Change: Navigating the Cycle of Change

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the "Cycle of Change," a powerful tool for understanding and facilitating behavioural shifts. With real-world examples and insights, Andy explores how this model helps us navigate through stages like precontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action, and maintenance. Whether it's quitting smoking or managing self-harm, understanding where a person is in the change cycle can transform how we support them. Tune in to learn how this practical framework can guide anyone through their personal transformation journey, helping them achieve lasting positive change.Key Timestamps:[00:00:00] Introduction to the Cycle of Change[00:01:16] Understanding Pre-Contemplation Stage[00:02:34] The Contemplation Stage: Awareness and Hesitation[00:04:50] Preparation for Change[00:07:28] Taking Action[00:10:06] Maintaining Behavioural Change[00:12:30] Dealing with RelapseKey Messages:Understanding behaviour through the Cycle of Change: Andy explains how the Cycle of Change provides a framework for understanding where people are in the process of changing a behaviour, helping caregivers and professionals strategise their support more effectively.Navigating relapse as part of the change journey: Andy highlights the importance of recognising relapse as a natural part of the behaviour change process, allowing individuals to build resilience and improve their confidence in achieving lasting change.Person-centred approach to promoting change: Andy discusses the importance of ensuring behaviour change interventions are driven by the individual's needs and values, encouraging caregivers to be mindful of supporting change in a way that prioritises the person's best interests.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

Understanding Neurodiversity and Parenting: A Journey of Healing and Support

In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker welcomes Alison Kerr, a neurodivergent single parent with over three decades of experience in holistic therapies and personal development. Alison shares her journey of navigating ADHD and neurodiversity, both for herself and her daughter, highlighting the challenges they faced growing up in a chaotic household. She discusses the importance of advocating for neurodivergent individuals, the emotional impact of undiagnosed ADHD, and the value of connection, compassion, and self-awareness. Alison also emphasises the need for a supportive approach to highly sensitive children and adults, offering insights on setting boundaries and promoting healing. Tune in for a heartwarming and informative conversation about self-discovery, empowerment, and understanding neurodiversity.Empowerment Path:https://www.facebook.com/EmpowermentPathKey Timestamps:[00:00:00] - Introduction[00:01:10] - Discovering ADHD and neurodiversity later in life[00:02:15] - The impact of a chaotic household and emotional challenges[00:03:40] - Dealing with childhood sensitivities and school experiences[00:06:30] - Alison’s journey into self-discovery and mental health[00:12:00] - Parenting a neurodivergent child: Challenges and breakthroughs[00:17:30] - Understanding neurodiversity: ADHD, boundaries, and emotional resilience[00:23:00] - Letting go of societal expectations and fostering connection[00:28:20] - The importance of educating children on boundaries and personal safety[00:38:00] - Embracing the strengths of highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals[00:53:00] - Alison’s vision for Empowerment Path and supporting neurodiverse peopleKey Messages:Advocating for neurodivergent individuals: Alison shares her personal story of navigating ADHD and neurodiversity, providing valuable insights into how understanding, patience, and compassion can empower neurodivergent individuals.Breaking societal norms in parenting: Letting go of traditional parenting expectations, Alison emphasises the importance of connection, understanding, and setting boundaries to support highly sensitive and neurodivergent children.Empowering through education and awareness: Alison discusses the need for awareness in schools and society, encouraging parents, teachers, and caregivers to learn more about neurodiversity and help neurodivergent individuals thrive.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