In this powerful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy Baker sits down with Ryan Kennedy, whose journey from being in care to becoming both a foster carer and social worker shines a light on resilience, reform, and real change. Ryan opens up about the reality of entering foster care, why language matters, and how lived experience can shape better practice for children today. With honesty and insight, Ryan challenges the system while offering hope for what truly works in supporting young people.
💙 Sponsored by Carers Card UK
This episode is sponsored by Carers Card UK — the UK’s #1 carers card offering recognition, discounts, and a supportive community for paid and unpaid carers.
👉 Explore the benefits: Order your card today
🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned
Kennedy Framework – Ryan’s developing model for trauma-informed fostering (link to Ryan’s socials/website if available)
The legacy of Victoria Climbié and reforms in children’s services
Key concepts: trauma-informed care, ACE’s (Adverse Childhood Experiences), family time vs. contact
🧠 Three Key Messages
Language matters. Words like “placement” or “contact” may feel clinical to professionals but can deeply affect how children experience care.
Lived experience is a superpower. Ryan’s perspective as someone who has been a child in care, a foster parent, and a social worker gives unique insights into what the system misses.
Consistency builds trust. Beyond policies, what young people need most is a constant, safe adult who remains present—even after they “age out” of care.
⏱️ Chapter Timestamps
00:00 – Intro & sponsor: Carers Card UK
01:42 – Ryan Kennedy’s story: from child in care to carer & social worker
02:36 – What social workers miss in those first “safe place” moments
05:40 – Wearing different hats: child, foster parent, social worker
09:14 – Reading files as someone who once was a file
12:20 – How AI could reshape social work language & empathy
13:33 – What training doesn’t tell you: system flaws & barriers
16:00 – Saying no as a foster parent & setting boundaries
19:00 – The difference between being cared for and being understood
25:00 – “Placement” vs. “home” and why language shapes belonging
30:00 – Biggest challenges: advocating within broken systems
42:00 – Education struggles & supporting excluded children
48:00 – Facing the “care cliff” and supporting beyond 18
54:00 – The Kennedy Framework: safe spaces, noticing the unspoken & developing trust
59:00 – Closing thoughts & staying connected
🎯 Why Listen to This Episode?
Hear the reality of care from someone who’s lived it on all sides
Learn practical insights for carers, teachers & professionals working with children
Understand how language and consistency can change a child’s sense of safety
Be inspired by Ryan’s Kennedy Framework for trauma-informed care
🔗 Connect with Us
📲 Instagram: @AbleTraining
📲 LinkedIn: Able Training
📲 TikTok: @AbleToCarePodcast
🌐 Website: AbleHub.uk
👉 If Ryan’s story resonated, please follow, rate & share so more carers, teachers and families can learn from this vital conversation.
