Able to Care

De-escalate Stress & Build Trust with One Simple Phrase

Have you ever felt truly seen? That moment when someone acknowledges your emotions without judgment? That’s the power of verbal attending – a simple yet transformative communication tool that can help us connect, de-escalate tense situations, and build trust.
In this episode, Andy dives deep into I notice statements and how they can turn conflict into understanding, frustration into calm, and disengagement into connection. Whether you're a caregiver, teacher, parent, or leader, this skill can help you support others while creating a more positive and open dialogue.
🎯 What You’ll Learn:~✅ What verbal attending is and why it’s so effective✅ How neutral observations help de-escalate difficult situations✅ The importance of curiosity over judgment in communication✅ Real-life examples of I notice statements in action✅ How this tool benefits individuals with trauma, neurodiversity, dementia, and emotional regulation difficulties
 
📢 Episode Sponsor: Carers Card UK
Did you know you could be missing out on 💰 thousands of pounds in discounts just for being a carer? Whether you’re a paid or unpaid carer, Carers Card UK is here to recognise and reward YOU.
🔹 Exclusive discounts on gyms, clothes, glasses, days out & more!🔹 Emergency ID card for added security & peace of mind 🆔🔹 Access to a wellbeing hub & Carers Circle community 🧘‍♂️💬
💙 Show you care while taking care of yourself! Get your card today:👉 Visit CarersCardUK.co.uk/promo-code/abletocare
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Key Messages from This Episode:
1️⃣ Connection Starts with Observation – Simply noticing someone’s behaviour and acknowledging it in a neutral way can help them feel seen, valued, and understood.2️⃣ Curiosity Over Assumption – Instead of labelling emotions or jumping to conclusions, using I notice statements allows for open, non-judgmental communication.3️⃣ Small Gestures, Big Impact – Whether in caregiving, teaching, or leadership, verbal attending can de-escalate tense moments, build trust, and improve relationships.
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⏳ Key Timestamps (Chapters):
⏰ 00:00 – Introduction: The Power of Feeling Seen 👀⏰ 02:30 – How I Notice Statements Build Connection 🫱🏽‍🫲🏼⏰ 06:15 – Using Verbal Attending to De-escalate Conflict 🔥➡️🕊️⏰ 10:45 – The Link Between Thoughts, Feelings & Behaviour 🔄⏰ 15:20 – How Neutral Observations Reduce Emotional Tension 🎭⏰ 19:55 – Why Curiosity is More Powerful than Assumption 🤔💡⏰ 24:30 – Practical Ways to Apply Verbal Attending in Daily Life 🏡🏢⏰ 29:10 – How Teachers & Caregivers Can Use This Skill in Action 🎒💖⏰ 33:45 – Helping Children & Adults Recognise Their Own Emotions 🧠❤️⏰ 38:20 – The Impact of Verbal Attending on Neurodiverse Individuals 🏳️‍🌈🧩⏰ 42:50 – Avoiding Judgments & Unhelpful Assumptions 🚫⚖️⏰ 47:15 – Building Trust & Connection Through Observation 🏗️🤝⏰ 51:50 – Recap: Key Takeaways for Using Verbal Attending 🎯⏰ 59:45 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Learn More 📚
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📢 Join the Able Hub Community!
Supporting, teaching, or caring for someone else can be overwhelming. That’s why we created Able Hub, a membership platform filled with:📚 45+ online courses covering self-care, dementia, neurodiversity & more🎙️ Exclusive podcast content🎟️ Events & resources to help you navigate challenges
💡 Try it FREE for 14 days! No contract, cancel anytime.👉 Join today
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
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The Power of Play: How Play Transforms Learning & Behaviour with Emily Warren

In this episode, host Andy Baker sits down with Emily Warren, founder of Little Fox Education, to discuss the transformative power of play in children’s development. With a background in teaching and behaviour support, Emily now works with children with additional needs through tutoring, family support, and attachment-based play.
Andy and Emily explore:✅ Why play is essential for children's emotional, cognitive, and social development✅ The connection between play and mental health – and why children need more free play✅ How play can be a powerful tool for children who struggle with traditional learning methods✅ The importance of parents and teachers engaging in play – and practical ways to do it✅ How attachment-based play can improve behaviour and relationships
This episode is packed with insight, practical strategies, and real-world experiences that will help parents, carers, and educators understand the importance of play and how to incorporate it into everyday life.
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Are you a paid or unpaid carer? You could be missing out on thousands of pounds in discounts for everyday purchases.🛒 Save on gym memberships, clothing, glasses, electronics, and more🆔 Get an ID card to access emergency information and recognition💙 Join a community of carers with exclusive support and resources
🎁 SPECIAL OFFER: Get your Carers Card UK today at👉 carerscarduk.co.uk/promo-code/abletocare
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Key Messages:
1️⃣ Play is a powerful tool for learning and emotional development. Through play, children develop essential skills in problem-solving, emotional regulation, and social interaction, making it a vital part of their education and well-being.
2️⃣ Engaging in play strengthens attachment and improves behaviour. Attachment-based play helps children feel safe, understood, and connected, which can lead to better emotional resilience and improved relationships with caregivers and educators.
3️⃣ Parents, carers, and teachers must embrace play to support children effectively. Encouraging free play, creative activities, and interactive learning at home and in schools can significantly enhance a child's confidence, behaviour, and ability to thrive.
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Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction02:30 – The Importance of Play06:15 – Understanding Attachment-Based Play10:45 – The Role of Play in Emotional Regulation15:20 – Play as a Learning Tool19:55 – The Impact of Play on Behaviour24:30 – Encouraging Play in Education29:10 – Overcoming Barriers to Play33:45 – The Role of Parents in Play38:20 – Play for Neurodiverse Children42:50 – The Science Behind Play and Attachment47:15 – Practical Play Strategies51:50 – Play as a Tool for Healing Trauma56:30 – Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts59:45 – Closing Remarks
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📢 Join the Able Hub Community!
Supporting, teaching, or caring for someone else can be overwhelming. That’s why we created Able Hub, a membership platform filled with:📚 45+ online courses covering self-care, dementia, neurodiversity & more🎙️ Exclusive podcast content🎟️ Events & resources to help you navigate challenges
💡 Try it FREE for 14 days! No contract, cancel anytime.👉 Join today
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Don’t miss out on future episodes! Subscribe and leave a review to help others find the show.
📍 Follow Able to Care Podcast:🔗 Website📺 YouTube📲 Instagram💼 LinkedIn

Breaking Down Tasks for Success: Forward & Backward Chaining in Care & Education

Have you ever faced a task that felt overwhelming? Now imagine learning a new skill or trying to maintain independence while experiencing cognitive or physical decline. In this episode of Able to Care, Andy Baker explores forward and backward chaining—powerful techniques that break down complex tasks into manageable steps, helping individuals learn new skills, regain confidence, and maintain independence.
Whether you’re a caregiver, teacher, or healthcare professional, understanding these strategies can transform the way you support others, particularly those with dementia, acquired brain injury, or neurodiversity-related challenges.
Sponsor
This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK—the UK’s number one discount card for unpaid carers.
💳 Exclusive Discounts & Support for Carers
Save on gym memberships, days out, clothing, electrical goods, and more
Access a wellbeing hub, Carers Circle tool, and an ID card for recognition and support
Just £8.00 per year—less than the price of a box of chocolates!
🎟 Claim your discount now with our exclusive Able to Care promo code: CarersCardUK.com
Resources Mentioned
📌 Exeter Dementia Action Alliance – Website📌 The PAL Instrument for Assessing Ability in Dementia📌 Andy Baker’s Able Hub – Website📌 Able Training’s Dementia & Behaviour Courses – Website
Key Messages from This Episode
Breaking tasks into small steps boosts learning & confidence – Forward and backward chaining can reduce overwhelm and support skill development in people with cognitive or physical challenges.
Maintaining independence is key – Even small successes, like buttoning a shirt, can rebuild confidence and promote autonomy for individuals with dementia or acquired brain injuries.
Success is a journey, not a race – Whether teaching a child to tie their shoes or supporting a loved one after a stroke, progress happens one step at a time.
12 Key Timestamps
⏳ [00:00] – Introduction: Overcoming big tasks with small steps⏳ [02:06] – Understanding forward and backward chaining⏳ [06:13] – Teaching everyday skills: Making a cup of tea⏳ [09:24] – How cognitive decline affects sequencing & task completion⏳ [12:49] – Dressing with dementia: A practical backward chaining example⏳ [17:22] – The importance of working with strengths when supporting someone⏳ [19:38] – Helping individuals rebuild confidence through success⏳ [22:46] – Why learned helplessness impacts motivation & independence⏳ [27:02] – Forward chaining for teaching children: Brushing teeth, tying shoelaces⏳ [31:06] – Backward chaining: The “top of the mountain” strategy for motivation⏳ [35:42] – How to tailor chaining techniques to different personalities⏳ [40:15] – Final thoughts: Small steps lead to big independence
Follow & Connect
🔹 Listen to more episodes: Able to Care Podcast📲 Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast📲 TikTok: @AbleToCare📲 LinkedIn: Andy Baker
📩 Join the Able Hub for exclusive resources, training, and community support → AbleHub.uk
Looking for Specialist Training?
Able Training provides expert-led courses on dementia care, neurodiversity, and behaviour management.
✅ Hands-on workshops & accredited e-learning✅ Train-the-trainer programmes✅ Bespoke courses for care homes, schools & professionals
📞 Find out more & book a course today: AbleTraining.co.uk

Understanding Dementia: Gina Awad on Advocacy, Rare Dementias, and Carer Support

In this episode of Able to Care, Andy Baker is joined by Gina Awad, an award-winning dementia advocate and founder of Exeter Dementia Action Alliance. Gina shares her journey in dementia advocacy, her work supporting carers, and her insights into rare dementias. This conversation highlights the importance of community awareness, personalised support, and the challenges carers face.
Whether you're a caregiver, a professional working in dementia care, or someone looking to understand the condition better, this episode offers invaluable insights into making society more dementia-friendly.
Sponsor
This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, helping unpaid carers access discounts, resources, and support. Get yours today using our exclusive Able to Care promo code at CarersCardUK.com.
Resources Mentioned
Exeter Dementia Action Alliance – Website
The Rare Dementia Support Network – Website
Gina Awad’s Work & Publications – LinkedIn
Dementia UK – Website
Key Messages from This Episode
Dementia care is more than memory loss – Understanding the diverse symptoms and impact of different types of dementia is crucial for providing effective support.
Community matters – Building dementia-friendly communities helps those living with dementia and their caregivers feel understood and supported.
Supporting carers is vital – Carers play a critical role in dementia care and need access to resources, respite, and emotional support.
Key Timestamps
📌 [00:00] – Introduction to the episode and guest, Gina Awad📌 [03:15] – What inspired Gina to become a dementia advocate📌 [08:40] – The importance of dementia-friendly communities📌 [14:20] – Understanding rare dementias and their unique challenges📌 [20:05] – The emotional toll of caregiving and how to offer better support📌 [27:50] – Practical tips for carers navigating the healthcare system📌 [33:10] – Why public awareness of dementia needs to improve📌 [39:45] – The work of the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance📌 [45:30] – Gina’s top recommended resources for carers and families📌 [52:00] – How businesses can become more dementia-inclusive📌 [58:15] – Gina’s advice for families who have just received a dementia diagnosis📌 [1:05:00] – Final reflections and where to find more information
Connect With Us on Social Media
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Looking for Dementia Training?
Able Training provides specialist dementia training for care staff, families, and organisations. Whether you're looking for in-person workshops, e-learning, or accredited courses, we offer practical training to improve care and understanding.
📞 Contact us today to discuss your training needs: AbleTraining.co.uk
🚀 Book your course now and make a difference in dementia care!

Why Setting Boundaries is Key to Healthy Relationships and Mental Wellbeing

In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the critical topic of boundaries. Often misunderstood as barriers, boundaries are essential for maintaining healthy relationships, ensuring self-respect, and preserving mental well-being. Whether you’re a caregiver, teacher, parent, or manager, learning to set and communicate boundaries effectively can transform your interactions and boost your resilience.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
🎁 Sponsor: Carers Card UKCarers Card UK supports caregivers by offering discounts, a wellbeing hub, and a Carers Circle tool. The card also provides peace of mind with an ID card for emergencies. Enjoy savings on gym memberships, clothing, days out, and more—all for less than the price of a box of chocolates a year.📲 Visit Carers Card UK to claim your benefits.
📚 The Able HubFor less than the price of a coffee a week, access exclusive podcast content, certified online courses, and expert resources on self-care, conflict management, dementia, and more. Join a supportive community of carers, teachers, and parents.📲 Visit Able Hub for your free 14-day trial.
📚 Andy Baker’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That ChallengeThis step-by-step guide introduces the TARGET model to manage challenging behaviours with confidence. Learn practical strategies to build resilience, empathy, and better connections.📲 Order your copy here.
 
Key Messages:
Boundaries Are Acts of Self-Care
Far from being selfish, boundaries are essential for protecting your energy and mental health. They enable you to show up more effectively for others while safeguarding your own needs.
Clarity is Key
Be specific about your boundaries to avoid misunderstandings. For example, instead of saying, “I need more space,” communicate, “I need 30 minutes of quiet time after work before I’m ready to talk.”
Healthy Relationships Thrive on Boundaries
Whether it’s setting limits with a child, a partner, or a colleague, boundaries create the trust and predictability necessary for deeper connections.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 – Introduction to the Importance of Boundaries00:02:00 – Why Boundaries Are Essential in Personal and Professional Life00:03:50 – The Different Types of Boundaries00:07:30 – How to Identify Your Personal Limits and Triggers00:11:45 – Communicating Boundaries Effectively00:15:20 – Overcoming Guilt and Pushback When Setting Boundaries00:18:00 – The Role of Boundaries in Building Trust with Children and Teams
 
Join the Conversation:
If this episode inspired you to reflect on your own boundaries, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert advice, stories, and tools to empower caregivers, teachers, and parents.
📲 Connect With Us:
Instagram and TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn: Able Training
For more resources, training, and discussions tailored to carers, teachers, and parents, visit Able Training. Together, let’s create a healthier, more balanced future for those who care for others.
Boundaries empower you to thrive. Let’s build them together!

Seven Steps to Empower Autistic Children

In this heartfelt episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Taiba Bajar, an experienced advocate for children with autism and their families. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of raising and supporting children with autism, focusing on practical and compassionate approaches to addressing symptoms and nurturing their potential.
Taiba shares her unique perspective on holistic care, including sensory and emotional support, the critical role of family involvement, and how breaking down misconceptions about autism can lead to a more inclusive and understanding society. This episode is packed with insights for caregivers, educators, and parents striving to create meaningful change for children with autism.
Resources Mentioned
Taiba’s Advocacy for Autism Support: Learn more about her work with families and children.
Carer’s Card UK (Our Sponsor): Access exclusive discounts and benefits with our promo code for Carer’s Card UK members.
Key Messages
Autism is a Spectrum: Embracing Individuality in Support and CareTaiba explains that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Each child is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and ways of interacting with the world. She emphasises the importance of seeing beyond the label of autism to understand a child’s individuality. By tailoring support to a child’s specific needs—whether through sensory adjustments, therapeutic interventions, or emotional nurturing—caregivers and educators can help children feel valued and empowered.
The Importance of Sensory and Emotional RegulationSensory needs often play a significant role in the experiences of children with autism. Taiba discusses how overstimulation can lead to anxiety and overwhelm, and she offers practical strategies for creating sensory-friendly environments that help children feel calm and secure. She also highlights the connection between sensory regulation and emotional well-being, encouraging caregivers to focus on proactive strategies, such as structured routines, sensory aids, and creating safe spaces to foster confidence and reduce stress.
Family-Centred Support: Strengthening Bonds and Building ResilienceTaiba emphasises that the family unit is at the heart of a child’s support system. Parents, siblings, and extended family members all play vital roles in shaping a child’s environment and sense of belonging. She shares actionable advice for building stronger family dynamics, such as fostering open communication, practicing patience, and involving siblings in the care process to create a supportive and inclusive home. By working together as a family, Taiba believes children with autism can feel more secure, connected, and ready to thrive.
Key Timestamps
00:00:40 - Introducing Taiba Bajar: Advocate for Autism Support and Family Care
00:02:15 - Autism and Individuality: Understanding the Spectrum
00:10:00 - Sensory Needs: Helping Children Find Balance and Calm
00:15:30 - Emotional Regulation and Safe Spaces
00:25:10 - Holistic Approaches to Autism Support
00:40:00 - Family Involvement: Strengthening Relationships at Home
00:50:20 - Advice for Schools and Educators: Inclusion and Empathy
01:00:00 - Final Reflections: Building a More Compassionate Society for Autism
Stay Connected!If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more inspiring conversations with experts and advocates.
Connect with us on social media:
LinkedIn: Able Training
Facebook: Able Training
Instagram: Able Training
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
Looking for More Resources?Visit the Able Training website for courses and resources designed to empower caregivers, educators, and families of children with autism. Thank you for listening, and stay tuned for more insightful episodes!

The Power of Active Listening

Have you ever felt like someone wasn't truly listening to you? Or found yourself so focused on your response that you missed the heart of a conversation? In this episode of The Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker dives deep into the art of active listening—a transformative skill that builds stronger relationships at home, work, and in care settings. Andy shares practical insights, real-life examples, and actionable tips to help you become a more present and empathetic listener.
 
Resources Mentioned in This Episode
🎁 Sponsor: Carers Card UKCarers Card UK supports unpaid and paid carers with discounts, a wellbeing hub, a Carers Circle tool, and an ID card for peace of mind. Save on gym memberships, clothing, days out, and more, while being part of a strong and supportive carer community.📲 Visit Carers Card UK to claim your exclusive benefits today.
📚 Andy Baker’s BookTargeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge provides a step-by-step guide to managing challenging behaviours with confidence. Using Andy’s six-step TARGET model, this book is an essential resource for carers, teachers, and parents.📲 Order your copy here.
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Fundamentals of Active Listening:What it is, why it matters, and how it differs from simply hearing someone.
Barriers to Effective Listening:Explore common distractions and assumptions that prevent genuine connection—and how to overcome them.
Practical Tips for Active Listening:Andy shares techniques like using open questions, recognising non-verbal cues, and avoiding judgment to foster better communication.
The Transformative Power of Listening in Caregiving and Relationships:How active listening can improve understanding, build trust, and create safe spaces for openness and honesty.
Key Messages
Listening is More Than HearingActive listening involves focusing fully on the speaker’s words, emotions, and intent. It’s about building connection, trust, and empathy.
Practical Tools for Better CommunicationFrom paraphrasing to mirroring, Andy outlines strategies to enhance your listening skills, making conversations more meaningful and productive.
Active Listening Builds Stronger RelationshipsIn both personal and professional settings, truly understanding others fosters trust, reduces misunderstandings, and improves outcomes for everyone involved.
Key Timestamps
00:00:03 – Introduction to Active Listening
00:01:55 – Why Listening is More Important Than Responding
00:04:10 – Barriers to Listening and How to Overcome Them
00:08:25 – Reflective Listening and Empathy: Key Techniques
00:12:40 – Practical Application of Active Listening in Caregiving
00:16:18 – The S.O.L.E.R Framework for Effective Communication
Join the Conversation
If you found this episode insightful, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert advice, tools, and stories to support carers, parents, and teachers.
📲 Connect With Us:
Instagram and TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn: Andy Baker
Explore additional resources, courses, and discussions tailored to carers, teachers, and parents at Able Hub. Together, let’s empower those who care for others to thrive.
Mastering the art of listening doesn’t just transform conversations; it transforms relationships. Take the first step today to becoming a better listener and building meaningful connections in your life.
 
 

How Do You Find the Right Care Home for Your Loved One?

In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Hannah Karim, a care expert and leader at Lottie, a rapidly growing later living marketplace. Hannah shares her personal journey as a caregiver for her mother and offers invaluable insights into navigating the often overwhelming world of elder care. Whether you’re just beginning the search for care options or are deep in the decision-making process, this episode is packed with practical advice and resources to help you feel informed and empowered.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode🎁 Sponsor: Carers Card UKCarers Card UK supports carers by offering discounts, a wellbeing hub, a Carers Circle tool, and an ID card for peace of mind. From gym memberships to clothing and days out, Carers Card UK helps you save while recognising your incredible work.📲 Visit Carers Card UK to claim your exclusive benefits today.
🌐 Lottie: The Later Living MarketplaceDiscover Lottie’s trusted resources and verified care providers, from home care to retirement living. The platform offers step-by-step guides to funding care, advice on finding the right care home, and a library of helpful resources.📲 Visit Lottie for more information and to contact the Care Exoert Service, click here.
📚 Andy Baker’s BookTargeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge provides a step-by-step guide to managing challenging behaviours with confidence. Using Andy’s six-step TARGET model, this book is an essential resource for carers, teachers, and parents. Order your copy here.
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Insights into funding care, including non-means-tested benefits like Attendance Allowance.
The importance of early conversations about care to reduce stress and preserve independence.
Tips for finding the right care provider, from evaluating CQC ratings to planning care home visits.
Strategies for carers to prioritise their mental health and find supportive communities.
Key Messages
Empowering Families Through Knowledge and TransparencyHannah explains how Lottie simplifies the care process by providing families with clear, accessible resources and verified care options. She highlights the importance of early planning to avoid rushed decisions and ensure the best outcomes for loved ones.
Funding Care Without the StressWith billions of pounds in care funding left unclaimed annually, Hannah sheds light on Attendance Allowance and other support options. She shares practical advice to help families access the resources they’re entitled to, reducing the financial burden of care.
Carer Wellbeing: Taking Care of Yourself While Caring for OthersDrawing from her personal caregiving experience, Hannah emphasises the need for carers to prioritise their mental health. She shares the value of joining carer communities and seeking professional support to build resilience and find balance.
Key Timestamps00:00:03 – Introduction to Finding and Funding Elder Care00:01:36 – Hannah’s Personal Journey into Caregiving00:04:38 – Understanding Funding Options and Attendance Allowance00:09:44 – The Importance of Early Planning and Starting Conversations00:17:25 – Carer Wellbeing and Mental Health Tips00:24:38 – Preparing for Care Home Visits and Key Questions to Ask00:31:20 – How Lottie’s Care Experts Support Families
Join the ConversationIf you found this episode insightful, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert advice, stories, and tools to support carers, parents, and teachers.
📲 Connect With Us:
Instagram and TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn: Andy Baker
Discover additional resources, courses, and discussions tailored to carers, teachers, and parents at Able Hub. Together, let’s empower those who care for others to thrive.
Navigating elder care can be overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, it’s possible to create positive outcomes for your loved ones and yourself. Let’s take the first step together.

Transforming Challenges Into Opportunities: The Power of Stage Desensitisation for Carers, Teachers, and Parents

In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker dives into the concept of stage desensitisation—a step-by-step approach to overcoming fears, managing transitions, and building trust. Originally developed for treating phobias, this method has far-reaching applications for caregivers, educators, and parents. Whether it’s helping someone adapt to sensory challenges, navigate life changes, or overcome a fear, stage desensitisation offers a compassionate, effective framework for fostering resilience and growth.
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The fundamentals of stage desensitisation and why it works.
Practical examples, from overcoming phobias to managing sensory sensitivities.
How this approach can aid in change management, trust-building, and behaviour support.
Real-world applications for carers, teachers, and parents.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
🎁 Sponsor: Carers Card UKCarers Card UK provides support, recognition, and rewards for carers, including discounts, a wellbeing hub, and an ID card for peace of mind. Save on essentials like gym memberships, clothing, and days out while accessing a supportive community.📲 Visit Carers Card UK to claim your exclusive benefits today.
📚 Andy Baker’s BookTargeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge equips readers with the skills to manage challenging behaviours confidently. Featuring Andy’s six-step TARGET model, this book is an essential resource for carers, educators, and parents navigating trauma, neurodiversity, or mental health challenges. Order your copy here.
Key Messages
Breaking Challenges into Manageable Steps
Andy highlights how stage desensitisation transforms overwhelming situations into achievable goals. From overcoming phobias to fostering confidence, this approach is about progress, one small step at a time.
Building Confidence and Resilience
Each success reinforces a sense of achievement, helping individuals grow their self-esteem and resilience. The method prioritises meeting individuals where they are and progressing at their pace.
Practical Applications Beyond Phobias
Andy discusses how stage desensitisation can support trust-building, behaviour management, and sensory adaptation. Examples include helping a child transition to a new school or introducing someone to a new sensory experience gradually.
Key Timestamps
00:00:00 – Introduction to Stage Desensitisation00:02:19 – The Fear Pyramid: Andy’s Personal Experience00:04:38 – Practical Examples of Gradual Exposure00:07:22 – The Psychology Behind Confidence-Building00:09:44 – Applications for Behaviour and Sensory Management00:13:13 – Supporting Transitions and Trust-Building00:20:29 – Final Tips for Using Stage Desensitisation
Join the Conversation
If you found this episode insightful, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert advice, stories, and tools tailored to carers, educators, and parents.
📲 Connect With Us:
Instagram and TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn: Andy Baker
Discover additional resources, courses, and discussions tailored to carers, educators, and parents at Able Hub. Together, let’s empower those who care for others to thrive.
Progress happens one step at a time, and every small win matters. Celebrate the journey—each step forward is a step worth celebrating.

Healing Through Relationships: Dr Alice Loving’s Expert Advice for Caregivers, Educators, and Families

In this eye-opening episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker welcomes Dr Alice Loving, an expert in child protection, attachment, and trauma-informed social work. With over 14 years of experience working with families in community and residential settings, Dr Loving has pioneered innovative methods to support families in crisis. Her PhD research on "change facilitators" and "change inhibitors" has not only informed her work but has also shaped her mission to transform the social care system.
Dr Loving introduces her revolutionary video intervention approach, a mentalisation-based tool designed to enhance parental sensitivity and strengthen attachment. This episode dives deep into her passion for relationship-based practice, her vision for reforming social care, and practical strategies that can benefit parents, teachers, carers, and professionals.
🎧 Resources Mentioned:
Carers Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to thousands of discounts, support, and a community designed to empower carers. Visit Carers Card UK to learn more and claim your exclusive benefits today.
Dr Alice Loving’s Two-Day Online Training: Explore evidence-based techniques for integrating attachment and mentalisation into practice.
Key Messages
The Importance of Attachment and Mentalisation
Dr Loving highlights how attachment and mentalisation are foundational for fostering strong, supportive relationships within families. She explains the significance of understanding a child’s emotional world and how parents can better connect with their children through reflective tools like video intervention. This approach not only strengthens parent-child relationships but also equips carers and professionals with strategies to manage challenges effectively.
Addressing Change Inhibitors and Facilitators
Drawing from her extensive research, Dr Loving discusses "change inhibitors" like denial, unresolved trauma, and low mentalisation, which can hinder progress in families. She contrasts these with "change facilitators" such as reflective practices and empathy-building tools that promote healing and growth. By focusing on these dynamics, carers, parents, and teachers can better navigate complex family challenges and support children more effectively.
Building a System of Support and Prevention
Dr Loving calls for a proactive approach to social care that focuses on early intervention and multidisciplinary collaboration. She envisions a system where professionals work together in integrated teams to provide targeted support for families. This approach, she argues, is essential for preventing crises and ensuring long-term positive outcomes for children and their caregivers.
Key Timestamps
00:00:00 - Episode Introduction and Carers Card UK Sponsorship00:01:26 - Welcome Dr Alice Loving: Social Work Trailblazer00:03:14 - Alice’s Journey into Child Protection and Social Work00:12:08 - Exploring Attachment, Trauma, and Mentalisation00:20:32 - Change Inhibitors vs. Change Facilitators in Families00:29:10 - The Video Intervention Model: A Transformational Tool00:40:22 - Reforming Social Care: A Vision for the Future00:53:19 - Practical Advice for Social Workers, Parents, and Carers01:04:00 - Closing Remarks and Resources for Listeners
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