Shows
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 218 - Adoption Barometer, New Minister & Becky BrooksHello and welcome to this, what feels like a marker in the year, episode looking at the 2025 Adoption Barometer (click here). We get AUK’s Becky Brooks on to run us through what we know and new stuff.
We unpack some of the news before we get to that, ie a new children’s minister, FASD Ireland’s very exciting new report (click here) and Al’s peer support community, Walking with Families, (click here).
Becky brings real insight personally and professionally and she opens up the data as well as analysis some of the bi...
2025-09-201h 13
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations Caitlyn Newblé CEO and founder of All in the therapy of musicHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak to Caitlyn Newblé the CEO and founder of All in the therapy of music. She shares her experience of the transformational influence music brought to her. Her vision is to make music accessible and affordable by bringing experienced and advanced musicians into schools.
You can visit her 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...
2025-09-1318 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 28 - Violence Against Women and GirlsThis month’s podcast is all about Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
It’s a tough but really important conversation. We chat about how this issue shows up in the lives of children and young people, especially in schools and online, and why it matters so much for those of us working with or parenting children and young people.
It’s not about policy or box-ticking, it’s about the real impact, the human side, and what we can do to make sure kids feel safe, supported and believed.
As always you can connect with us through the followi...
2025-09-0927 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 217 - Conversation with Bryan PostHello and welcome to this episode, a conversation with Bryan Post.
We were delighted to get the opportunity to speak to him at the end of August. He was a generous guest and shares some of his personal experience and his professional expertise. Bryan has authored many books, trained professionals and has inspired many adoptive parents as he shares from his life, practice and extensive knowledge. We also chatted about his latest ai project and you can catch up with all he does here.
Between recording and now an awful lot has happened for the bo...
2025-09-061h 19
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship - Tracy Moisan Director of the National Consortium on AFCCA, CanadaHello and welcome to this follow on episode of my Churchill Fellowship.
In this episode I speak to Tracy Moisan from Canada who is the national director of the National Consortium on Aggression Towards Family / Caregivers in Childhood & Adolescence (AFCCA). The Consortium exists to increase awareness of AFCCA across Canada, to amplify the voices of youth and their families, and to mobilize knowledge in ways that affects policy, systems, services, research, and professional practice to improve the lives of youth experiencing AFCCA and their families. Tracy has a wealth of experience and absolute insight the challenges families fa...
2025-08-3048 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship update: Karine Tremblay - Filial TraumaHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F podcast.
A few months ago I was contacted by Karine Tremblay an adoptive parent, social worker and researcher in relation to her work on the impact of living with children with challenging and aggressive behaviour. So, we arranged to speak, it’s a conversation and topic that sits really comfortably within the remit of my Churchill Fellowship and Karine’s description of ‘filial trauma’ will be recognised by parents, carers and professionals.
Karine is French Canadian but her work is transferable to all who live or work in th...
2025-08-2347 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 215 - Dee Mills talks EducationIn this episode we speak to Dee Mills, she's an adoptive parent and had written a book 'Your Adopted Child at School: Making The Right Choices & Getting The Education They Need' drawing on her extensive challenges as an adoptive parent with the school system. Dee is certainly not anti school but full of useful tips and advice born from lots of interaction with teachers and schools. We had a cracking chat and it raised lots of issues and memories for us as well.
Dee's book can be found here. https://amzn.to/40riO06
As always if...
2025-08-1658 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 27 - Surviving the school holidaysIn this episode, we’re talking all things school holidays and how to support children through long stretches of unstructured time while gently stretching their independence.
We explore why holidays can feel overwhelming for some children (especially those with trauma histories or neurodivergence, how to build skills and resilience without pushing too far, the importance of strong, safe relationships—so if things go wrong, you can talk it through and why your support network matters just as much as the routine.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebo...
2025-08-1226 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Dr Maude ChampagneHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F Network.
In this episode I speak Dr Maude Champagne from Interwovern connections based in Ontario Canada. Following on from her PHD Maude in collaboration with other professionals she has written what is, in my opinion, an excellent book. It’s called DECODING AGGRESSION, COMPLEX BEHAVIOURS AND BRAIN-BASED DISABILITIES and the link is in the show notes. It’s a practical book looking a supporting families and it’s strength is it comes from a range of perspectives to do that.
Maude is an author who has al...
2025-08-0922 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 214 - Euan Preston and Gillian Elam from the Potato GroupIn this episode we speak to Euan Preston and Gillian Elam from the Potato Group. They recently published their report 'Far, Far Beyond the Adoption Order: Lessons From Lives Impacted by Trauma' drawing on the experiences of 400+ adoptive families. The report highlight some of the complexities and challenges faced by children and parents accessing appropriate support and how services struggle to manage crisis and when adoptive children can no longer live at home.
You can visit Potato's website here and download the reports here
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or s...
2025-08-0247 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastWednesday Webcast with Vicki McKeown & Lisa EthersonIn this episode we chat to Vicki McKeown & Lisa Etherson about the tricky subject of Shame. Drawing on their professional experiences and practice as well as Lisa's Phd they have co authored the children's book "Jake and his Shame Armour. We discuss aspects of shame and how it is linked to attachment and can influence behaviour. As always there's a bit of frivolity and chaos as we try to get the live machine to work.
You can buy the book here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any per...
2025-07-3128 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship pt 4 Follow up - An interview with Lee Tempest from NZHello and welcome to what is a follow up to the conversation I had with Lee Tempest in the summer of 2024. I spoke to her then in relation to the understanding and support being offered to families living with children with challenging and violent behaviour in New Zealand. Lee works for VisAble a national charity and has authored the first survey across New Zealand looking at families experiences of child to parent violence and abuse and in this interview she shares the findings and the work that there is to do.
You can listen to her first in...
2025-07-3033 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastWebcast with Helen Wills and Sarah Fry from the Belay FoundationHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F podcast.
In this episode Scott and Al speak to Sarah and Helen from the Belay Foundation. They help families access disability benefits as well as in home support.
Here's a their info
The Belay Foundation
In case you are inspired to find out more ...
website https://thebelayfoundation.org.uk/
- To help them in the future the survey they've launched to get input on our future services is here:
https://forms.office.com/e/EDfKWKgntV (and the...
2025-07-2638 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Nakole Wooley, adopter & SwerHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F podcast.
In this episode I speak to Nakole Wooley, parent education & cultivate connection facilitator, licensed social worker, formed foster carer and adoptive parent through kinship. Nakole got in touch to talk about the challenges that adoptive families face specifically in relation to adoption disruption and that’s where the conversation starts.
You can find out more and view Nakole's 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 p...
2025-07-1931 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 213 - Adoption Grandparenting, Disruption and BantzHello and welcome to the 213th Episode (not the 113th as introduced!).
We catch up and unpick some of the latest news including the quality of the Gov's communication, upcoming disruption interviews and the experience of being a grandparent through adoption and the, perhaps, unique aspects of that role.
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
Liste...
2025-07-1243 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better You Episode 26 – Natural NetworksIn this months episode, Vicki and Haley talk about preparations for the summer holidays, the heat, the lack of routine and the changes that are coming after. It’s a lot for any parent and carer to manage and so we explore the need for preparing for that with our people, our network, our tribe to prevent breakdowns or at least minimise those difficult times and give us the energy to be the best carers we can.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me...
2025-07-0827 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive parent Izzy and PDAHello and welcome to Conversations from the A&F podcast
In this episode I speak to adoptive parent and former foster carer Izzy, she shares her experience of adopting a child that she fostered as well as her experience of realising that her child was living with Pathological Demand Avoidance.
Izzy explains PDA and how it impacts children and families as well as sharing her own journey to running support groups and working to support other adoptive parents working to meet the needs of their children with PDA.
You can access the PDA web...
2025-07-0538 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 212 - Dr Chris Burke Safe and Meaningful ContactHello and welcome to episode 212 of the adoption and fostering podcast, as we creep into the summer madness is upon us so due to scheduling challenges we’re releasing an interview that we had with Dr Chris Burke in May with no #InfoBanter.
The issue of maintaining family links for children remains a complex one with everybody around children often having strong feelings, worries and concerns about what is in the best interests of children and how we should address the challenges. Chris has created a model for organising decisions around safe and meaningful contact for professionals and...
2025-06-2834 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parent AmieeHello and welcome to Conversations from the A&F podcast
In this episode I speak to adoptive parent Amiee, with her husband she proactively chose adoption and she shares their journey so far. We talk about the challenge of being linked with a child and the difficulties they experienced prior to finding their child.
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
2025-06-211h 04The Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 211 - Adoption Morals and EthicsIn this episode of the A&F podcast we have a quick catch up then throw ourselves into the murky world of adoption and ethics. We may have fallen at the first hurdle but we are speaking as adoptive parents and we look specifically a the balance of morals and ethics within this world. We're not high minded lads so it's pretty rudimentary but we consider some of the challenged and consider the role of pragmatism. The court case we mention can be found here.
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship fro...
2025-06-1450 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Episode 25: What Does "Home" Really Mean?In this episode we talk about the idea of home. What does home mean to us, as individuals, as parents, as professionals? Is it a place, a person, a feeling?
We reflect on how our own experiences shape the way we support children and young people especially, those where home hasn’t always felt safe or secure. For care-experienced young people, home can be a complex and loaded idea, something longed for, feared, or never truly known.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better...
2025-06-1028 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive parent Julie
Hello and welcome to Conversations from the A&F podcast
In this episode I speak to adoptive parent Julie, she became a foster carer then adopted as a solo carer and has experience working as a professional in mental health and social care. Julie shares her experience and the challenges as professional dropped away as the local authority team moved to a regional adoption agency as well as the benefits of the adoption support fund.
Julie now support other families like hers through the not for profit Nurture Hub Therapy Service that she founded working with b...
2025-06-0726 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations: Dan, foster carer and Special GuardianHello and welcome to Conversations from the A&F podcast
In this episode I speak to Dan Boxall_Simpson a Foster Carer, special guardian and fostering panel member
Dan shares his experience of becoming a foster carer with his husband and how that opened up many of the things that came afterwards including the decision to become a special guardian for two of the children they fostered. Dan is now in the process of starting an independent foster care agency through a community interest company in his area to meet the needs of vulnerable children wher...
2025-05-3150 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 210 - FASD Ireland ConferenceHello and welcome to the A&F podcast, we're in the same country so after a very busy day at the FASD Ireland Conf we took to bed (think Morecambe and Wise) and unpacked the day's events as well as catching up with the latest news from the world of adoption and fostering and house moves!
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 Aa...
2025-05-2423 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Tristian, Care Experienced AdultHello and welcome to Conversations from the A&F podcast In this episode I speak to Tristian Smith a US care experienced adult. He shares his vivid experience of coming into the care system after a difficult kinship care arrangement. Tristian with his brother moved several times, experienced a failed adoption and then separation from his young er brother. It’s a difficult listen as he shares his story. Tristian now looks to support and encourage other young people in the care system and has written his experiences in his book Against All Odds.
As always if you...
2025-05-1736 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship Report Part 3: Walking with Families - Therapeutic Respite & InterventionHello and welcome to this third episode of Al's Churchill Fellowship. You can read the full report here.
In this podcast I reflect on conversations with carers and practitioners that support parents and children in the context of respite arrangements. It is a model of practice rarely seen in the UK and not available from statutory support services. The model of intervention explored from two settings in North America raised questions about perceptions of family and how intervening to rebuild and reform families can be an affective solution for some.
‘I came to the conclusion, if...
2025-05-1033 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 24 - RiskThis month we’re diving into the topic of risk. Are we too risk averse? And what does that really mean in the world of parenting, adoption and fostering, education, and social work. Join us as we explore how fear of risk and the consequences shapes decision-making, and what impact it has on the young people we’re trying to support. This conversation invites you to consider where caution helps and where it might be holding us back.
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better...
2025-05-0628 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Conference Report - Adoption England (Moving Forwards) 2025Al was invited to attend the 2025 Adoption England Conference (Moving Forwards) in London. So, he off he went with his C30 tapes and trusty recorder and was able to grab a few interviews with attendees and contributors. The conversations cover a range of subjects; Early Permanence, the ASGSF, opportunities, adoptee voices, pre order disruption with kind contributions from the following:
Vicky Davidson Boyd - Adoption Tees Valley
Emily Frith Adoption UK
Nathanial-Elliot Coad Youth Network
Sarah Johal Adoption England
Prof Beth Neil University of East Anglia.
As a...
2025-05-0332 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship Report Part 2: Walking with Families - Interventions and RecommendationsHello and welcome to this second episode of Al's Churchill Fellowship. You can read the full report here.
Developing the themes in Part 1 this podcast considers how parents and carers are supported by focused organisations. Rather than look at specific models of intervention, of which there are many, it considered how families interacted and accessed the interventions and specifically how they were delivered to the families. Again, drawing heavily from Interwoven Connections based in Ontario, Canada the interplay of parent/carer, peer supporter and clinical staff is highlighted.
‘It’s never about whether a pare...
2025-04-3039 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 209 - APPG Adoptee Voice InquiryIn this episode we have the now almost obligatory ASSGSF intro and the get to the business on hand. We invited the All Party Parliamentary Group on Adoption and Permanence steering committee chair Siobhan Rhodes to come on and talk about the work they're doing to gather the voices of people who are adopted. We chat about what that is with the APPG is and you can complete the survey for Adoptee Voices 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...
2025-04-2635 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastPodcast Special - The Adoption & Special Guardianship March!We pulled this episode together at short notice to promote the work of adoptive parent Clare Solomon joined by Euan Preston of the Potato group to talk about the upcoming march to protest against the changes to the ASGSF.
We chat through the changes and what they are looking to achieve through the petition and the march. You can sign the petition here, or find out more about the march on the 3rd May to Downing Street here and find out more about them on their Facebook page here.
As always if you’ve experience of...
2025-04-2538 min
The Adoption and Fostering PodcastChurchill Fellowship Report Part 1: Walking with Families - Introduction and Peer SupportHello and welcome to this first episode of Al's Churchill Fellowship. You can read the full report here.
This episode draws on peer support specialists working directly with parents and carers living with children with challenging and aggressive behaviour. Focusing on Canada & the USA it considers different models of peer support including social media, virtual and in person. It then considers the role of peer mentors specifically in the Canadian organisation Interwoven Connections based across the province of Ontario that serves a large community through virtual means.
‘The best way to help families is one at...
2025-04-2337 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 208 - Dr Lynn Snow CF Post Adoption DepressionIn this Episode Al interviews Dr Lynn Snow. She is a medical doctor who has undertaken a Churchill Fellowship looking at how other countries and context address and support adoptive parents experiencing post adoption depression.
It was a fascinating conversation and Lynn has also worked as a paediatrician on adoption panel and we start by unpacking that a little. We then delve deeply into the issue of PAD, its prevalence, what helps and what doesn't. Lynn's conversations with several professionals are fascinating and you can read her report here.
Before we get into the interview w...
2025-04-191h 00The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Rabbi Dr. Shmuly YanklowitzHello and welcome to this episode of Converations from the A&F podcast. In this episode I speak to foster carer and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz. He’s passionate about protecting vulnerable children which is what led him to start YATOM: The Jewish Foster and Adoption Network. He is a father to 4 children and has fostered 8 children over the past few years with his wife, Shoshana.
They work to motivate and support the Jewish community in the journey of adopting & fostering children and to advocate for the needs of orphans, children needing temporary homes, and adoptive families.
2025-04-1232 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastBetter Me Better Us Ep 23 - Keeping Up With the KidsWhat does it really mean to keep up with the kids? It's more than knowing the latest slang or TikTok trends – it's about staying curious, open, and connected.
In this episode, we explore how tuning into the world our young people live in helps build stronger relationships and deeper understanding. Are you up to date with the language they use? Do you know what matters to them right now? Are you curious rather than critical?
As always you can connect with us through the following -
Instagram- BMBUltd
Facebook – Better Me Better...
2025-04-0830 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 207 - Michelle Hall & Dr Paul Shuttleworth talk Life Story Work and KinshipHello and welcome to the A&F podcast. In this, slightly raucous, episode we speak to Michelle Hall and Dr Paul Shuttleworth. They chat about the work they are doing with the charity Kinship supporting carers to help children make sense of their life stories.
They are delivering free training across the UK, both online and in person, and you can sign up through the Kinship website here.
If you're interested in coming to Al's Fellowship report release/webinar then you can sign up for free here.
23rd April 12 noon to 13:30 Practitioners here...
2025-04-0552 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Foster Carer Zoe BellHello and welcome to this episode of Converations from the A&F podcast. In this episode I speak to foster carer Zoe Bell, she shares her experience of being a foster carer and the impact of her faith on that. She now works for the charity 100 Homes based in Nottinghamshire that supports local churches to recruit carers and build networks around foster carers for the local authority.
Links:
Facebook and Insta: @100HomesNotts
Email: info@100homes.org.uk
As always if you’ve experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any per...
2025-03-2937 minThe Adoption and Fostering PodcastEpisode 206 - Anna Webster, Therapeutic Caregiving for children with FASDIn this episode of the A&F podcast we speak to adoptive parent and Neurodiversity Coaching Psychologist Anna Webster. She shares her experience of parenting a child with a diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the development of the Neurowise Programme on Therapeutic Caregiving for FASD.
It is a genuinely fascinating chat and we both drew lots of new information and thinking about the role of parents and the specific challenges parents and carers of children with FASD face.
Anna is on X here
and Linkedin here
As always if yo...
2025-03-221h 07The Adoption and Fostering PodcastConversations - Adoptive Parent Ali FanshawHello and welcome to conversations from the A&F podcast. In this episode I speak to adoptive parent Ali. With her husband they adopted two boys and after what seemed like a routine and normal experience of parenting challenges came when they started School. Ali shares her experience of facing challenges, difficult decisions that led to her setting up the ‘Fizzy Kids’ website and FaceBook page.
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 th...
2025-03-1550 min
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 minThe 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 minThe 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
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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 minThe 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
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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.
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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 -
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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.
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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 -
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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 -
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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.
Memoir here and her new Podcast here...
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.
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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 min