Shows
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 22 – InterpretationsThis month, we're exploring the power of interpretations. The way we hear, use, and understand words can significantly shape how we think,feel, and respond. We reflect on how shifting our interpretations can improve relationships and promote understanding.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2025-03-1123 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 205 -The Impact of Childhood Maltreatment Research with Laura SmithPhd Student Laura Smith recently got in touch with us in relation to research that she is undertaking research assessing the impact of a history of childhood maltreatment in the birth family on a child's emotional development. This is aimed specifically at adopters and adoptees aged 3 to 10 years old and she is keen to speak to families. We unpick why she is undertaking this research and what it can tell us in terms of how we care for adopted, and other children, who have experienced early adversity.
If you'd like to be involved here is the link to...2025-03-0853 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Peter Jacob talks about NVRHello and welcome to this slightly unusual episode of Converations from the A&F podcast.
Today I’m speaking to Peter Jakob, he introduced NVR (Non Violent Resistance) to the UK and has been a leader in its development and training of practitioner here. He’s has a new book out ‘Non Violent Resistance in Trauma Focused Practice’, we talk about that as well as broader issues supporting families.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get i...2025-03-0159 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 204 - Adopter & Swer Rebecca Govern talks FASD and Post Adoption SupportThis was a fantastic episode to record, Rebecca draws on her experience as an adoptive parent to a child impacted by FASD as well as being a practicing social worker as we talk about FASD and the challenges families face getting help. To be honest it's such a critical topic we cartwheel around it.
Rebecca wrote the following:
"I am a doctoral researcher at Birmingham City University. My research looks at post adoption social work with families with a child with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of FASD (Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder) from the perspectives o...2025-02-221h 12The Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Special - AUK's Becky Brooks on the Children's Wellbeing and Schools BillIn this episode we get Becky Brooks to come on and walk us through the new Government's Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill that is progressing through parliament now. There's lot to unpack and Becky is able to direct us to the highlights with school uniforms, admission rules for looked after children, virtual school powers, guardianship offers and much more discussed.
As always Beck it spot on and you can read more on her analysis here.
If you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share...2025-02-151h 02The Adoption and Fostering PodcastBMBU Episode 21 - KindnessThis month we’re talking about kindness- the chosen as Children's word of the year for 2024.We'll talk about why it matters, how it shapes connections and interactions.
Kindness isn’t just about individual moments—it creates a ripple effect. When children experience kindness, it strengthens relationships, builds trust, and influences the systems and communities around them. A kind, understanding approach within families, schools, and support networks can transform outcomes for children who have experienced trauma.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better U...2025-02-1123 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 203.5 Becky Brooks and the Adoption BarometerHello and Welcome to this Episode, It's always a pleasure to have Adoption UK's Becky Brooks onto the podcast. Becky is an adoptive parent, former foster care, author and self confessed policy and statistics Nerd.
Adoption UK's Adoption Barometer is open til the 17th Feb and is a tool that informs policy makers and gives real data to the lived experience of adoptees and adopters' families. We unpick some of the reasoning behind the questions and why only 16 to 25 year old adoptees are polled.
We get of course chat about much more, hoovers, jeans and la...2025-02-081h 08The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Solo Adoptive Parent RamseyHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F podcast. In this episode I speak to solo adopter Ramsey. He shares his journey to adoption and the experience of travelling through it on his own.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here or Spotify here
2025-02-011h 07The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 203 - Artificial Intelligence and Support + A Patch UpdateHello and Welcome to this Episode, we jump on the AI bandwagon and dig into what we think about the idea of support to families being provided by A.I. It is an interesting chat and we give on A.I. model a try with surprising results. We also unpack the comments we got through our FB page.
Fiona Wells joins us for the whole conversation, share's her perspective and then gives us an update about the work of PATCH targeting change within adoption.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special gua...2025-01-251h 12The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parent AugustoHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network. In this episode I speak to Augusto, with his wife they adopted twins. He reflects on the challenges of early permanence and transracial adoption.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Spotify here
Google here
2025-01-1830 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Episode 20 - GoalsThis month, we focus on goals. Do you set goals? If so, are they truly for you, or are they shaped by what society expects?
For fostered and adopted children, the ultimate goal often revolves around finding a permanent family. But how much are they included in shaping this goal? Are their voices heard in the process?
Join us in the conversation as we explore the importance of realistic, meaningful and inclusive goal-setting.
Connect with us -
Instagram- @BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – @BMBUltd
Emai...2025-01-1426 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 202 - Tris & PaulaHello and welcome to this episode A&F podcast our traditional new year check in with spouses Tris and Paula.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, BlueSky or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here Spotify here
2025-01-111h 00The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 201 - Sarah Anderson from Foster Wiki talks allegations.Hello and welcome to the first episode of 2025! We recorded this episode with Sarah in the run up to Christmas so we're all festive and looking ahead and behind in our references.
We invited Sarah on to share the findings of FosterWiki's 2024 Independent Allegations Report. We have a really interesting chat about its contents as well as sharing personal and professional experience and reflect on the impact on children, adults and the broader system.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share...2025-01-0459 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 180 -Therapeutic Parenting. What is it?Merry Christmas! As we take a break over the holiday we re release what was the most listened to podcast of 2024.
thank you all for listening!
Hello and welcome to the Adoption and Fostering podcasting, this week we explore Therapeutic Parenting and Good Enough Parenting. Terms that we often throw around and presume that we understand but we ask what it actually is, is there a definition and are we all on the same page.
We draw on the feedback we had from the excellent comments on our FB pages (yo...2024-12-2857 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 200 - Christmas Special and 200th Episode CelebrationHello and welcome to episode 200 from the A&F Network and our 2024 Christmas special.
We've shipped in the wonderful Mark Owers to guest host a proper retrospective podcast unpicking a whole raft of episodes, anecdotes and think about why we started the podcast and looked at the highlights. Mark weaves in Christmas questions and we think about what the future holds.
We have also released it in full video format on our YouTube channel here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and w...2024-12-211h 31The Adoption and Fostering PodcastSafeguarding in Adoption Conference - Al CoatesHello and welcome to a slightly unusual series of episodes of the A&F podcast. In September I joined Fiona wells from PATCH, Friend of the show Vicki McKeown and strategic lead for Adoption England Sarah Johal to speak at the Safeguarding in Adoption online conference. With over 500 tickets requested we were overwhelmed with the interest in this subject that impacts so many families.
In this episode we hear Sarah Johal.
Fiona an adoptee, adopter & social worker explained the reason for the conference:
"Practice towards adopters in crisis can be oppressive, biased and l...2024-12-1427 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better You Ep 19 – Trauma and ChristmasChristmas can be a time of joy, but for many adopted and fostered children, it can feel deeply unsettling. The festive season often brings up complex emotions, triggers, and reminders of loss. In this episode, we explore how trauma impacts children during Christmas, why traditional celebrations can feel overwhelming, and how thinking ahead and making adjustments can make the time more manageable.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-12-1022 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastSafeguarding in Adoption Conference - Sarah JohalHello and welcome to a slightly unusual series of episodes of the A&F podcast. In September I joined Fiona wells from PATCH, Friend of the show Vicki McKeown and strategic lead for Adoption England Sarah Johal to speak at the Safeguarding in Adoption online conference. With over 500 tickets requested we were overwhelmed with the interest in this subject that impacts so many families.
In this episode we hear Sarah Johal.
Fiona an adoptee, adopter & social worker explained the reason for the conference:
"Practice towards adopters in crisis can be oppressive, biased and l...2024-12-0746 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Foster Carers Mobeena and WajidHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Mobeena and Wajid foster carers for Hillingdon Council. They describe a positive experience of choosing to be foster carers as their own children grew older and of welcoming a child into their home on a long term basis.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or emai...2024-11-3030 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 199 - Eight Year Anniversary Get Together .Hello and welcome to episode 199 from the A&F Network.
Well, it's been eight years since we started and that coincided with us being together in Ireland. So, we kick back in Scott's kitchen, catch up on events and reflect on stuff.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes her...2024-11-2332 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Dr Elaine MachettHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Dr Elaine Machett a solo adoptive parent. Drawing on her own personal experience she shares the results of her interviews with adoptive parents in relation to the challenges they faced when their children first moved in. As well as being a huge transition and stress for children for many parents it is a difficult time where they can feel overwhelmed and struggle to adjust. Elaine shares the themes and issue the parent raised and we discussed our own experiences.
As...2024-11-1655 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastBMBU Episode 18- ConsequencesIn this latest episode Vicki and Haley discuss what we mean by “consequences”. Although consequences and punishments may seem similar, understanding the difference can have a huge impact on how we view and respond to behaviour. We talk about the need for both, what they might look like in families and in the workplace as well as how people’s experiences of them influence their view and use of them.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
2024-11-1229 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 198 - CEO of Walk the Walk Jacqueline GearHello and welcome to episode 198 from the A&F Network. This week we speak to Jacqueline Gear the CEO of Walk the Walk Family Support Service based in Herefordshire. We discuss the work that they do with families including a family contact centre supporting positive relationships between parents. As always it's an interesting conversation and you can look at their website and see what they get up to.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in tou...2024-11-0945 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee BarbaraHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Barbara, she was adopted as a baby in the late 1940’s after the 2nd world war . She describes the experience of finding out she was adopted by accident as a 12 year old, the challenges that brought and then later in life searching for her biological family. Barbara has written an account of her experiences and journey in a book ‘Blue Plastic Cow’ and you can find a link to that here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering o...2024-11-0255 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 197 - Sam Turner from KinshipHello and welcome to Episode 197 of the A&F podcast. In this episode we chat to Sam Turner Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Kinship. We'd hoped to catch Kinship Care week earlier in the month but circumstances got the better of us.
Sam joined us to chat about some of the work that Kinship had been doing as well as to highlight the new report Forgotten: Support for kinship children’s education and mental health It's a lively and friendly chat but we cover what are significant issues for many families caring for their children.
2024-10-2650 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parents Jo and JamesHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode we speak to Jo and James, they are biological parents and adoptive parents and came to that through the process of foster to adopt.
They share their story and shine a light on the challenges that can emerge through the process of early permanence and the emotional turmoil and complexity that it can often bring. Ultimately they did successfully navigate the process and they are open and honest about this experience.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or sp...2024-10-191h 12The Adoption and Fostering PodcastWebcast with Adopter and Adoption Researched Claire AgiusHello and Welcome to this midweek webcast. Al spoke to Claire Agious an adoptive parent and Phd researcher considering the support that families are receiving through post adoption support from the perspective of adoptive parents and post adoption social workers.
Claire shares her journey to her research and more about what she is doing.
On the 23rd October Claire is hosting a free adoption conference,
Adoptive Parenting: myths, challenges and contemporary perspectives
at the Manchester Metropolitan University and you can get more details and book here.
https://forms.office.com...2024-10-1728 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastSafeguarding in Adoption - Fiona WellsHello and welcome to a slightly unusual series of episodes of the A&F podcast. In September I joined Fiona wells from PATCH, Friend of the show Vicki McKeown and strategic lead for Adoption England Sarah Johal to speak at the Safeguarding in Adoption online conference. With over 500 tickets requested we were overwhelmed with the interest in this subject that impacts so many families.
Fiona an adoptee, adopter & social worker explained the reason for the conference:
"Practice towards adopters in crisis can be oppressive, biased and lacking in fundamental foundational understanding. There needs to be a...2024-10-1543 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastSafeguarding in Adoption - Vicki McKeownHello and welcome to a slightly unusual series of episodes of the A&F podcast. In September I joined Fiona wells from PATCH, Friend of the show Vicki McKeown and strategic lead for Adoption England Sarah Johal to speak at the Safeguarding in Adoption online conference. With over 500 tickets requested we were overwhelmed with the interest in this subject that impacts so many families.
Fiona an adoptee, adopter & social worker explained the reason for the conference:
"Practice towards adopters in crisis can be oppressive, biased and lacking in fundamental foundational understanding. There needs to be a...2024-10-1248 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 17 – What is success?In this episode, we’ll explore the big question: What do we mean by success? How are we really measuring it? Is success defined by traditional milestones like career achievements or financial stability, or can it be something more personal and nuanced?
We’ll explore how success can look different for everyone, especially when considering individual experiences such as neurodivergence, fostering and adoption.
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-10-0828 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 196 - Scott and Al, #CPV on the telly and Adoption ImprovementsHello and welcome to this episode of the podcast. We catch up with some news and reflect on the recent BBC programme 'I am not ok' looking at parents caring for children with violent and agressive behaviour. You can view it here in the UK. We also talk about the recent article in CYPNow by Mark Owers considering the changes that need to be brought in for Adoption. You can view that here.
In the chat we talk about a domestic homicide review and you can read that here. Of course we advise caution and note the t...2024-10-0557 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee Brendan WatkinsHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to adult adoptee Brendan. His experience of being adopted and the challenges of searching for his parents is compounded by the fact that his biological father was a priest. This fact added a layer of complexity and secrecy to what was already a challenging search. Brendan is open about the challenges that he faced across many years as the truth unfolded.
Brendan has written account of his experiences and you can read or listen to the book here and visit h...2024-09-2850 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us - Ep 14 Be Curious?Hello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
In this months episode they talk about the importance of being curious with those around us. Curiosity helps us develop deeper understanding, build stronger connections, and respond to the needs of those around us with empathy and insight.
Connect with them -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-09-2125 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 195 - Creative Life Story Work with Jenny YoungHello and welcome to this episode, it's a fascinating chat with our guest Jenny Young the founder and Director of We are Blue Cabin they work to 'develop and strengthen relationships between care experienced individuals and the people in their lives through creative activities.'.
Click here to look at their website
It's a really interesting conversation as we consider what we mean by 'life story work' and reflect on what that can look like and/or should look like. Jenny is passionate about supporting children, families and practitioners in the work that she does. 2024-09-2151 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Megan TannerHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode we catch up with foster carer Megan, we spoke to her in the autumn of 2022 as she was about to set out on a new adventure in Africa. Megan catches us up with the work she’s been doing and the book that she’s been writing. She shares her own lived experience as a neuro-divergent foster carer and explains how barriers can be broken down to establish a successful partnership with one sole aim: to create the best possible outcome for a child or tee...2024-09-1449 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us - Ep 16 SafetyHello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
In this episode, they dive into the concept of safety—both physical and emotional—and explore what it truly means to feel safe. They discuss how trauma can deeply affect our sense of security, impacting the way we navigate relationships, environments, and ourselves.
Connect with them -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-09-1027 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 194 - Summer news with Scott, Al & Fiona WellsIt's been a busy old summer. In this episode we catch up with family changes, business changes and generally updates from the two. It's been a busy summer for everyone but now we're at the new term we're thinking ahead. Scott shares some updates with FASD Ireland and Al in relation to the Churchill Fellowship.
We asked Fiona Wells to come and share how the plans for the 'Safeguarding in Adoption' online conference planned for the 24th September are coming along. It's free and you can book a place here.
We discuss some of the ch...2024-09-0757 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 173 - Historic Adoption Policy with Dr Michael LambertScott and Al are having a week off! both taking a pause after a busy year and before a busy autumn. So, rather than do nothing we're re releasing a cracking episode from last year that is well worth a revisit.
In this episode we speak to NHS historian Dr Michael Lambert. He has looked at the historic evidence of Government policy to promote and facilitate removal of children from mothers in the post war period. We discuss this as well as the move towards a formal apology from the government as well as from ot...2024-08-3159 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Bethan Pell, Child to Parent ViolenceHello and welcome to this episode of the Adoption and Fostering Podcast.
This episode is halfway between a conversation and a normal episode. I had the opportunity to speak to Bethan Pell Doctoral Researcher at Cardiff University. She’s looking Child and Adolescent to Parent Violence and Abuse (CAPVA) in the context of Wales. It’s a fascinating study and Bethan explains the purpose of the research and how she hopes it will develop understanding in Wales of the issue and beyond as well as consider whose voices aren’t being heard.
As always if you’ve e...2024-08-2434 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 193 - The For Baby's Sake Trust with CEO Lauren Seager-SmithHello and welcome to the A&F Podcast.
In this episode we speak to Lauren Seager-Smith CEO of The For Baby's Sake Trust charity working UK-wide to break the cycle of domestic abuse and empower parents to give their babies the best start in life.
For many children in the care system or previously in the care system domestic abuse has been a part of their story and it was a really interesting conversation with Lauren. Additionally, Lauren discusses her previous work around bullying and Scott and Al have had to call in HR.
H...2024-08-1755 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep15 - Vulnerability.Hello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
In this months episode we talk about vulnerability. What does it mean to you? Is it a weakness or a sign of strength?
Connect with them -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-08-1326 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastAdoption Conversations - Adult Adoptee and Solo Adopter Susie JamesHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Susie James and adult adoptee and a solo adoptive parents. She shares her experience of growing up adopted and navigating reunion with her birth mother as a young woman. Susie is now embarking on a PhD looking at post adoption support for solo adopters inspired by her own experiences of support. She also has a website collating the stories of adoptees and you can find that here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship fro...2024-08-1039 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastWebcast with Fiona Wells talking Adoption Crisis and Safeguarding in Adoption.In this webcast Al speaks to Fiona Wells founder of Patch and author of 2023's Adoption Crisis report. We're chatting about the report and what conversations it's started as well as the upcoming 'safeguarding in Adoption' online conference planned for the 24th September. It's free and you can book a place here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gma...2024-08-0341 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - German Foster Carer MarieHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Marie a German Foster Carer. She got in touch to offer some insight to the German system and how fostering is viewed and arranged there. It’s a fascinating subject with that highlights as many differences as there are similarities.
We’d love to hear from any other carers or adopters from far flung lands so if that’s you please do get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpod...2024-07-2750 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 192 - CEO of the Fostering Network Sarah ThomasHello and welcome to the A&F Podcast.
In this episode we speak to the CEO of The Fostering Network. It feels like we only scratched the surface of the issues facing fostering at the moment but Sarah speak with experience and insight that is really thoughtful but also hopeful. We unpick a little around the State of the Nation report as well as considering the challenges of recruitment, the value placed on foster parents to name a few of the topics covered.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from...2024-07-201h 02The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations -Adopter Cousins Wendy and AzumahHello and welcome to Conversations from the the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to cousins Wendy and Azumah, they are both adoptive parents. Even through they live in different countries they have provided mutual support to each other in their individual and contrasting experiences of adoption. It’s an interesting listen and I’m sure you’ll find the contrasting and comparable experiences interesting.
There’s a little bit of audio overspill to start with in places but we sort it out in quick order so hang in there.
As always if you...2024-07-1341 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastMonday Webcast - Facebook Stalking, the new Gov and more....Hello and welcome to a Monday webcast from the A&F Network.
We thought we'd do something different and unpick some stuff as we're in Podcast Towers together today! So, we talk about Facebook stalking, manifesto promises, gathering adopter views and more.....
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here...2024-07-0845 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 191 - Adoption Revocation, Churchill & InfoBantzWe recorded this prior to the election results so there's limited election chatter. However, we do touch on it a little but more of our time is used to reflect on the recent article/blog on a court case relating to adoption revocation. The article can be read here , it is a delicate issue and we consider the implications for children, parents and families of the judgement or lack thereof. What do you think?
Al has recently been awarded a Churchill Fellowship and we unpick what that is and what he is looking at, read more here. 2024-07-0659 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Kerry Adult AdopteeHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Kerry an adult adoptee, she lives in Kenya and runs the Footprint Family Charity. Kerry shares her experience of being adopted and the challenges of looking for her birth mother and father, the isolation of that search and experiences of reuniting with birth family.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app...2024-06-2945 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 190 - Dónal Traynor, Pride, Manifestos and 'Lost Boys and Fairies'Hello and welcome episode 190. In this episode weave together conversation with social worker and Guardian ad litem, Dónal Traynor, about the the recently released TV programme "Lost Boys and Fairies", pride month and the recently released manifestos. We cover lots of ground and it's a conversation for adults so we've popped on an explicit rating.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email...2024-06-221h 23The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parent AndreaHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to adoptive parent Andrea. She is Austrian and shares her experience of approval and adoption through their system. There are few adoptions in Austria and the culture and practice are markedly different. Andrea explains some of the unique challenges faced as well as her move to raise understanding of Aware Parenting an attachment based parenting model.
Here's some links to some resources shared by Andrea
"Herzenseltern“ a German speaking self-help group for adoptive parents with nearly monthly online meeti...2024-06-1538 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us: Ep13 - Big events for little peopleHello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
Happy Pride Month!!
In this 13th episode we talk about big events for little people. As usual we go up, down and all around with the topic covering events such as exams, endings (including the end of the school term), explaining big stories and how within that, us big people can help ourselves to help our young people.
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUl...2024-06-1132 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 189 - James and Sarah from Replenish Culture CICHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
Last year Al attended the Adoption England Conference and met James Kargbo one of the founders of Replenish Culture CIC. Their vision is to support foster carers and adopters of black and mixed children to value, promote and celebrate them, their culture and identity. On a practical level that is through Replenish boxes but beyond that to use the boxes as a tool to discuss issues of race, racism, discrimination and promote positive views of the children's identity.
On this podcast we speak to James a...2024-06-081h 11The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Anne, adult adoptee and birth mom.Hello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to adult adoptee and birth mom to a child who was adopted Anne Peshka. Anne lives in Florida and share her story of being adopted, the experience of giving up one of her children to adoption and two stories of reunion. It’s a story that raises lots of questions and Anne is a remarkable woman in terms of her fortitude and resilience.
You can visit Anne's website here.
As always if you’ve experience of ado...2024-06-0146 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 188 - Elections and BarometersHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
Well, just before we pressed record an election was announced in the UK in what was pretty poor timing for Adoption UK and their Barometer. We unpick both things and consider the impact of a change of government on the landscape as well as reflect on the release of the Barometer and the finding it highlights this year. You can read the Barometer here.
We also discuss touch on the recent speech by Sir Andrew McFarlane at the recent potato conference. You can read that h...2024-05-2556 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parent MattHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak Adoptive parent Matt, he shares his experience, with his partner, of adoption. It was a complicated and challenging path having to change agency mid assessment. They are now parents and Matt is open and honest thoughout this interview.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twit...2024-05-181h 09The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 187 - An interview with Laura Machin founder of Adopter AdvocacyHello and welcome to the A&F podcast.
In this episode we welcome Professor Laura Machin from the Lancaster University. She is an an adult adoptee, adopter and academic and has set up Adopters Advocacy who seek to "highlight the voices and needs of adopters during the adoption process and after a child has been placed, without diminishing the importance of adoptees and their birth families.".
Before we get into the heart, vision and work that they do we dance lightly across the latest hot topics and issues in the news. It was a cracking cha...2024-05-111h 12The Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better You - Episode 12Hello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
It’s the start of GCSE exams so we talk about how to support our children and young people through this difficult time. We also highlight Foster Carers week and the amazing work that they do every month not just in May.
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-05-0725 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Michelle Hall Contact and Kinship CareHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I catch up with Kinship carer and researcher Michelle Hall, she is looking at the issue of contact between kinship carers and birth parents for her PhD. Michelle highlights the ongoing and complex challenges that can be present and shares the experiences of those she has spoken to. You can find access to her research here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on t...2024-05-0436 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 186 - CVAA Strategy Launch and DfE updatesWe're back in the same room after a year online. Consequently, we're a little giddy but get ourselves on track and discuss the CVAA strategy update that we were attending in that London. We ask the question that many prospective adopters ask, RAA or VAA? Then we unpick adopter sufficiency, PP+, the three year rule and more.
2024-04-2740 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee Julie McGueHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to adult adoptee Julie McGue, she was adopted in the US with her twin sister and grew up in the 60s knowing she was adopted. Julie shares her story of fighting to get access to her birth records and the names of her biological parents and the support that she received through a post adoption support group.
Julie’s website here shares more of her story and her writing and is an excellent resource and window into the...2024-04-2047 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 185 -An interview with Transnational/racial Adoptee and Sexologist Anna LindeHello and welcome to Episode 185 of the Adoption and Fostering Podcast.
In this episode we interview transnational/transracial Adoptee and Sexologist Anna Linde.
Anna's research, website and social media can be found below
Free Discovery call and my ”workbase” at Healing Exchange LLC:
https://www.healingxchg.com/booking-calendar/discovery-meeting-with-anna?category=0ec8fc3e-78a2-4ef9-921b-
40851f4b1fa5&referral=service_list_widget
Intimacy coaching group for Adult Adoptees:
https://www.healingxchg.com/intimacy-for-adult-adoptees
Instagram here.
Linkedin: here
We took o...2024-04-131h 15The Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us - Episode 11 – ExpectationsHello and welcome to this episode of the Better Me Better Us Podcast with Vicki and Hayley.
As it’s National Stress Awareness Month we thought we’d talk about expectations both of ourselves and others and how it contributes to our stress levels.
We would love to hear your experiences and open up the conversation.
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-04-0925 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee Courtney-GraceHello and welcome to Conversations from the the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak adult adoptee Courtney-Grace. She shares her experience of adoption and is frank in relation to the challenges she faced growing up and re entering the care system as a teenager. Courtney-Grace is honest and frank about the impact of her experiences and the challenges that she has navigated.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the F...2024-04-0644 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 184 - Jenny Ginger - Adopting when you've got a biological child.In this episode we speak to Jenny Ginger in relation to her Phd looking at the issue of adopting when you've already got a biological child.
It's a fascinating subject and we drew on Jenny's research and knowledge as well as a raft of interesting comments and questions that came from listeners though our FB page. You can read them here.
We mentioned a new research project 'family routes' you can find more details of that here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or pr...2024-03-301h 07The Adoption and Fostering PodcastWednesday Webcast - Sarah Anderson from FosterWikiIn this webcast we discuss the latest updates in the world of fostering and chat about FosterWiki’s latest independent survey. We cover a lot of ground and reference comments from our FB page here. Please follow and like to recieve notifications and info about what we're discussing and upcoming episodes.
You can participate here in the FosterWiki survey here.
We’d love to hear from any other carers or adopters from far flung lands so if that’s you please do get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email...2024-03-2856 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversation Special - Supporting fathers with CPV an interview with Adopt4LifeThis episode is an interview that Al did with Adopt 4 Life's Kathryn Connor and Murray Coulter looking at the support service that they provide for fathers experiencing challenging and violent and aggressive behaviour.
You can check out their website here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Sp...2024-03-2347 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Special - CoramBAAF Post Adoption Support Conference KeynoteHello and welcome to this special edition of the A&F Podcast.
In this episode we’re sharing a keynote speech that I gave to the CoramBAAF post adoption support conference to mark the release of the their best practice guide by Caroline Thomas and John Simmonds. I tried to ground the talk in the lived experience of families but there was certainly much more that could have been said.
I hope you find it interesting and please let us know what you think.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special...2024-03-1925 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 183 - Changing the System, Post Adoption Support & Good NewsHello and welcome to episode 183 of the Adoption and Fostering Podcast. We had a plan but got slightly sidetracked by the good news of FASD Ireland's funding success. That led us down a rabbit hole in terms of how do we affect change, what are the levers we need to pull and what are the challenges. We unpick that then Al has some feedback from CoramBAAF's post adoption conference and we run through that.
We also check in with Al and get an update on his solo parenting experiment as well as the usual infobantz. There was s...2024-03-1657 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 10 - MistakesEpisode 10 – Embracing mistakes for growth
In this months podcast we talk about mistakes- What was our experience of mistakes growing up and how they were responded to? Does this impact how we respond now? Do you create safe spaces and relationships for conversations to happen?
We would love to hear your experiences and open up the conversation.
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
2024-03-1223 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Foster Carers Halima and AdamHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to foster carers Halima and Adam. They have chosen to be carers while raising a young family and describe their positive experiences as well as some of the challenges that they face as carers. It’s a thoughtful conversation and demonstrates how effective support is essential for all foster carers.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in...2024-03-0941 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 182- Phil Watson talks Fostering, Recruitment and More.Hello and welcome to the 182nd episode of the A&F podcast. In this episode we chat to Phil Watson, amongst many other things, he works as a recruiter for Liverpool fostering as well as being a foster carer and adoptive parent. This is a somewhat chaotic but cracking chat with Phil sharing some of his personal experience as well as speaking to the challenges of recruiting as well as the nature of fostering itself.
We would recommend following Phil here on social media as he is always entertaining.
We would also like to apologise f...2024-03-021h 13The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 181 - Post Adoption Support and ScaffoldingHello and welcome to the A&F podcast. In this episode we unpick a few questions in relation to post adoption contact as well as think about how much scaffolding is too much and downsizing when your children get to 18.
Here's a link for next Intro to NVR that we're holding on the 13th & 20th May. As it's online it's open to any persons from anywhere https://rb.gy/dx888x
Link for other workshops: www.fasdireland.ie/workshops - this includes an Introduction to FASD.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or spe...2024-02-2453 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee Susan VickersHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to Susan Vickers, she shares her story of growing up as a transracial adoptee in the 70s and 80s. Susan experienced ongoing racism and a challenging relationship with her adoptive parents. She then went on to reconnect with her biological parents with complex outcomes. Susan has written two book charting her experience ‘Love Susan: An Adoption Reality’ and ‘I am not a Paki’. that offers a unique insight to her experience and life.
Below is an image of the scu...2024-02-241h 02The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 181 - Post Adoption Support & ScaffoldingHello and welcome to the A&F podcast. In this episode we unpick a few questions in relation to post adoption contact as well as think about how much scaffolding is too much and downsizing when your children get to 18.
Here's a link for next Intro to NVR that we're holding on the 13th & 20th May. As it's online it's open to any persons from anywhere https://rb.gy/dx888x
Link for other workshops: www.fasdireland.ie/workshops - this includes an Introduction to FASD.
As always if you’ve experience of ado...2024-02-1753 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 9- My Voice and Experience MattersHello to Better Me Better you Ep9 - As Children’s Mental Health Week falls within February, we thought we would discuss this year’s theme which is “My Voice Matters”.
What do we already do to ensure we listen to the voice of the child and what could we do better?
Connect with us -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Spotify here
Google here
2024-02-1425 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee Stephen RowleyHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to adult adoptee Stephen Rowley, he was adopted in the 1940s in the US and he shares some of his journey to rediscovering his birth family. Stephen in a Psychotherapist and he unpicked aspects of his internal journey and considers some philosophical questions in terms of identity. Stephen has a website here and you can find out more about him in his memoir - The Lost Coin: A Memoir of Adoption and Destiny
As always if you’ve...2024-02-1038 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastWednesday Webcast - Researcher Matt Clark talks about Adoptive DadsHello and welcome to this Wednesday Webcast from the A&F network.
We chat to Researcher Matt Clark about his research into adoptive dads, we unpick why he's doing the research and some of the specific challenges that dads face and are perhaps hidden in the support world.
You can read more about the research here or get in touch with Matt
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch...2024-02-0837 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations -Foster Carer and Adoptive Parent IrinaHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to Irina, she is a foster carer and an adoptive parent and lives in Australia. Irina shares her experience of becoming a foster carer then moving to Singapore where she also fostered then adopted her daughter with her husband. They now live back in Australia where they have continued to foster and have adopted a son. In this conversation Irina also reflects on the challenges faced by the fostering and adoption system in Australia and her broader views on t...2024-01-2747 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Special - Tris and Paula take over!It's that time of the year and as per our new tradition we've invited our spouses on to dish the dirt, catch up and reflect on the latest comings and goings in our journey. We cover all kinds of stuff, children growing up, boundaries, new ways of being and moving house.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app formerly known as Twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com...2024-01-2059 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adult Adoptee and Adopter CarolineHello and welcome to this edition of conversations from the A&F network.
In this episode I speak to Caroline and adult adoptee and adoptive parent. She shares her experience of entering a children’s home as a four year old with her siblings. Caroline articulates the complexity of her experience and her as a child growing up adopted away from her siblings. Now as an adoptive parent she also shares her views on contemporary services and adoption
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or profes...2024-01-1355 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 8- New Year and more of Better Me Better UsIn this months episode Vicki and Haley firstly Wish You All A Happy New Year!! After which we consider the pressure people often put on themselves at this time of year with new starts, resolutions, giving up things which is great but what do people also want to keep, build on and strengthen. Under this we consider modelling habits and changes to those around us particularly children. We also know how hard it is to give up habits particularly when a lot of those habits are meeting some kind of need.
Connect with us -
Ins...2024-01-0921 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEp 179 - Scott and Al just talkHello and happy new year!
We thought it would be good to catch up after a busy few months and the usual Christmas shenanigans. We reflect on Christmas challenges, experiences of loss for children and then range onto politics, cruises, and more.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, twitter or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Spotify here
...2024-01-0646 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastRe Release - A and F Conference - Birth Parent Angela Frazer-WicksWe re release the most downloaded episode of 2023.
Many thanks for all the listens.
One of our contributors at the annual Adoption & Fostering Podcast Conference was Angela Frazer-Wicks, birth parent and chair of trustees at the Family Rights Group as well as a key note speaker and campaigner. She shares her experience of maintaining links with her children after their adoption, the challenges of an inconsistent system and professional support as well as navigating the feelings of all parties to the adoption.
It is a fantastic insight to a world that can be op...2023-12-3154 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastRe release - Episode 157 - Post Adoption Social Worker Nick BurkeWe're re releasing the most listened to podcasts of the year. In second place we have adoption social worker, Nick Burke
In this episode we're really happy to speak to Nick Burke a post adoption social worker. Nick speaks from a personal perspective across a range of issues that impact on adoption and social workers and it's fantastic to get a real live social worker on the podcast. We discuss a whole range of issues that are unique to adoption and post adoption support.
The discussed BASW report can be found here.
As a...2023-12-3050 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastRe release - No. 3 Webcast - Adoption Crisis with Fiona WellsWe're re releasing the most listened to podcast of the year. In third place we have Fiona Wells.
In this webcast we speak to adopter, social worker and adult adoptee Feona Wells about the recent report Adoption Crisis The Jarring Reality of Adoption that she complied. It has been shared widely and lay’s out over 30 families’ experiences of adoption and the challenges that led up to and were part of disruption. It’s an emotive issue and the report raises serious concerns in terms of the system’s response to the adversity that many find them...2023-12-2947 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 6 of FASD – What’s da Craic? With Maggie, Rob, Scott and special guest TristanIn our final episode or our first Series of “FASD – What’s Da Craic?” Maggie, Rob and Scott are joined by FASD Ireland Founder and Chief Executive Officer – Tristan. As a team of 4 we have all had quite the year, not just with the inaugural series of the podcast, but with us all being involved in a range or events, workshops, political events to name a few.
We each review our favourite episodes of the series, and how it has lifted the lid on accessibility to information on FASD in Ireland. We also discuss what we would like to see...2023-12-271h 02The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChristmas Special - Vicki, Haley, Scott and Al round up the year.In this our Christmas podcast we get on Vicki and Haley from the podcast family and we unpick some of the latest new, consider what we'd like to ask the Children's minister and look to the future.
Thank you so much for listening this year it's been a delight to podcast and we've had so many highs that they can't be listed.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook pag...2023-12-231h 15The Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Special - Sophie Parkinson, Behaviour Outreach Worker and PhD student.In this midweek podcast I speak to former teacher, a behaviour outreach worker and adoptive parent Sophie Parkinson. She shares her experience of working in school as well as how this has led her to now be undertaking a PHD entitled "Education professional's understanding of trauma informed approaches in education".
We chat about a broad range of issues that impact on children in school as well as trying to make sense of the current culture around supporting children's behaviour in school, behaviourism and the broader political context.
If you'd like to speak to Sophie or pa...2023-12-2027 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Ettienne and Scott, Adoptive ParentsHello and welcome to conversations from the A and F network
In this episode I speak to adoptive parents Ettienne and Scott. They share their story of how they came to adoption following issues around their health and fertility. The conversation covers a range of issues including how they chose their adoption agency, the approval process, competitive matching and introductions in lockdown. Unusually, they also have court imposed visitation which they also discuss.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share tha...2023-12-1639 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 7 -Christmas and SafeguardingIn this month's podcast we talk about safeguarding during the festive period as we acknowledge that this time of year can be very stressful, overwhelming and triggering. With this in mind we have a conversation about the importance of pre-empting some of the difficulties and creating a safety plan in place to manage some of the risk factors.
Connect with us -
Instagram- @BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – @BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Spotify here
Google h2023-12-1217 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 178 - Sally Donovan & Carly KingswoodHello and welcome to this episode of the Adoption and Fostering Podcast. this time we speak to authors Sally Donovan & Carly Kingswood about their new book 'The Unofficial Guide to Therapeutic Parenting for Childhood Aggression and Violence'.
To quote from the blurb 'With the aid of this guide, develop a language to enable children to understand their emotional states in a safe environment. Expertly written by award-winning author, columnist and adoptive parent Sally Donovan and Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist Carly Kingswood; learn how to care for yourself and the children in your lives.'
So, we...2023-12-1246 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEmergency Podcast with Helen Bonnick Defining Child to Parent AbuseIn a short episode we speak to Helen Bonnick about the Home Office's consultation into 'defining child to parent abuse.'
It's been a long time coming and she shares its genesis as well as the rationale behind looking to define it now and the potential benefits of doing so.
***Please Note: Helen mentioned money left over from research from Brighton but she would like to correct and confirm that it was money left over from Oxford***
Helen is friend of the show and we do indulge in some light banter.
...2023-12-0728 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Katherine & Julie from SASSI (Solo Adopters Social, Support and Information)Hello and welcome to conversations from the A and F network
In this episode I speak to adoptive parents Julie and Karen, they are solo adopters and share their experience of adopting on their own. They have set up the organisation called SASSI ( Solo Adopters Social, Support and Information) which is a community for parents like themselves. We chat about the specific issues that solo adopters face well as the work and hopes of SASSI.
You can find their website here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship fro...2023-12-0239 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 5 of FASD - What’s da Craic? Foster Carer FrankIn this episode Scott had a chat with foster carer and parent Frank. Frank and his wife adopted in the early 90’s in the UK and since then have returned to Ireland to live.
Franks shares his families story of living with FASD, how they became aware of it, how they were supported, as well as how it impacted everyone in the longer term with the sad passing of his son 4 years ago from suicide.
Franks story is an insightful and emotional listen, and we want to thank him publicly for sharing so much.
If y...2023-11-2850 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 177 - Ellie Costello from Square Peg talking school attendance.
Hello and welcome to this episode of the A&F podcast. We have a great chat to share that we recorded in October, it's with Ellie Costello from Square Peg. Square Peg was set up as a social enterprise in April 2019, to effect change for children who struggle to attend school and their families. We only scratch the surface of a complex topic that affects many families in our community. Ellie has lived experience and is passionate about supporting families and making a positive change as are all the team at Square Peg.
The interview starts at 24:20 as we rip t...2023-11-251h 19The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 176 - Scottish Adult Adoptee Movement - Fi HendersonIn this episode we speak to Fi Henderson from the Scottish Adult Adoptee Movement (SAAM). She shares her experience of becoming a campaigner for #AdopteeRights and the work that she is part of and the legislation that SAAM are looking to effect in Scotland.
Fi is passionate about change and clear in terms of the support that is needed for adult adoptees and the changes that are needed across the system.
You can see more of their work on their FB page here. Or contact them via email here scottishaam@gmail.com
They are also delivering an online conference on Monday...2023-11-1856 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us: Ep6 - Winter SeasonAs we move into winter Vicki and Haley reflect on what this time of year might mean to different people with different experiences.
Connect with us -
Instagram- @BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better Us
Twitter – @BMBUltd
Email – info@bettermebetterus.co.uk
Listen/subscribe on iTunes here
Spotify here
Google here
2023-11-1425 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Rianne and DannyHello and welcome to conversations from the A and F network
In this episode I speak to Danny and Rianne foster carers featured in the recent channel four documentary ‘Kids’.
Danny is a second generation foster carer and together they have fostered several children as well as raise their own family. We chat about their experience as well as getting an update on Byron one of the young people featured in the programme.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like sha...2023-11-1147 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastWednesday Webcast - Sarah Anderson from FosterWikiIn this, sightly delayed released, Wednesday Webcast we speak to Sarah Anderson from FosterWiki. Sarah has been on before and she updates us on the work that the FosterWiki team are involved with as well as some other stuff. We talk all things recruitment, worker status and more, Sarah is passionate and you can find out more about what she does here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, the app...2023-11-0751 min