Join host Andy Baker (author, speaker and educator) for Able Training's care-focused podcast Able to Care. For paid and unpaid caregivers, teachers and parents to better understand themselves and those they support. With twice-weekly episodes covering understanding people, promoting self-care and resilience, signposting support and services, strategies to reduce stress and distress, promoting good practice and ensuring posit ...
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In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the critical elements of stability, predictability, and routines within care settings, emphasizing their profound impact on individuals' sense of security and well-being. Through relatable examples,He discusses person-centered approaches and collaborative planning, advocating for individualized routines tailored to meet specific needs, including those of individuals with neurodiverse conditions, mental health issues, learning disabilities, and dementia. By fostering consistency, independence, and a positive structure, Andy emphasizes the transformative potential of routines in empowering individuals and promoting their overall quality of life 00:00:00:00 - 00:00:25:11: Introduction to stability, predictability, and routines in care settings. 00:01:03:04 - 00:01:26:05: Discussion on the importance of predictability and routine in reducing stress. 00:03:13:08 - 00:03:34:20: Importance of person-centered approaches and collaborative planning in creating routines. 00:05:02:14 - 00:05:27:08: Advocating for collaborative approaches in determining routines for individuals with conditions like pathological demand avoidance. 00:06:22:06 - 00:06:34:06: Discussion on the benefits of routines in freeing up cognitive capacity, especially for individuals with ADHD. 00:08:16:09 - 00:08:36:21: Exploring strategies like visual timetables and personalized playlists to support individuals in following routines independently. 00:13:05:24 - 00:13:28:20: Addressing the challenge of routine changes and the importance of providing advance notice to reduce anxiety. 00:14:44:09 - 00:15:04:23: Discussing the long-term benefits of providing advance notice for routine changes. 00:15:17:23 - 00:15:29:08: Highlighting the promotion of independence through routines and structures in care settings. Key Messages: Person-Centered Approaches Are Essential: Routines should be tailored to the individual's preferences and needs, promoting autonomy and positive outcomes. Collaboration and flexibility are crucial in designing effective routines. Routines Support Cognitive Functioning: Routines play a vital role in freeing up cognitive capacity, especially for individuals with neurodiverse conditions like ADHD, enabling them to navigate daily tasks more efficiently. Promoting Independence through Structure: Well-designed routines and structures empower individuals to become more independent by providing clarity and guidance, fostering confidence and self-reliance.: Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #PredictableRoutines #PersonCenteredCare #ReducingStress #AutonomyInCare #Neurodiversity #CognitiveFunction #AnxietyManagement #RoutineChanges #EmpoweringIndependence #CaregivingStrategies #MentalHealthSupport #AdaptiveRoutines #PositiveOutcomes #StructuredLiving
In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker sits down with Norma Sherwin, a seasoned nurse with 38 years of experience in the care industry. Norma shares her journey from direct care work to consultancy, where she now focuses on supporting others to implement best practices and enhance well-being for both caregivers and those they care for. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by care home managers, the importance of self-care, and strategies for promoting positive culture and genuine connections within care settings. With insights on training, staff support, and fostering collaboration between managers and families, Norma provides invaluable advice for navigating the complexities of the care sector. Norma supports care homes to improve their practice and improve their CQC rating in her consultant business. Find her here https://ns-care.co.uk/ or on linkedIn linkedin.com/in/norma-sherwin Timestamps: 00:00:20: Introduction to the podcast by host Andy Baker. 00:01:04: Andy introduces Norma Sherwin, a nurse with 38 years of experience in the care industry. 00:06:11: Discussion about Norma's transition from direct care work to consultancy during the lockdown. 00:08:03: Challenges faced by care home managers, including legalities, staff management, and ensuring the well-being of residents. 00:16:13: The misconception around self-care and the importance of setting boundaries. 00:23:13: Strategies for managers to prevent burnout and promote self-care among staff. 00:25:31: Balancing commercial aspects of care with long-term quality and staff well-being. 00:32:09: Building genuine connections with residents in care homes. 00:34:06: Addressing challenges in care home culture, such as blame and task-focused approaches. 00:37:33: Onboarding families and educating them about care home culture and procedures. 00:40:07: Importance of understanding standards and requirements in care settings. 00:45:03: Tips for family members on engaging with loved ones with dementia. 00:52:08: Discussion on creating a positive and inclusive culture in care homes. Key Messages: Prioritise Self-Care: Caregivers and managers must prioritize self-care to prevent burnout and maintain well-being. Build Genuine Connections: Building genuine connections with residents in care homes enhances the quality of care and overall well-being. Address Care Home Culture: Addressing challenges in care home culture, such as blame and task-focused approaches, is essential for creating a positive environment. Educate Families: Educating families about care home culture and procedures can foster better understanding and support for both residents and staff. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Wellbeing Support Nursing Care Management Life Healthcare Challenges Self-Care Caregiver Mental Health Awareness Elderly Care Dementia Education
In this episode of the Able to Care podcast, host Andy Baker delves into the essential elements of creating a positive environment within care settings. From the crucial impact of first impressions to the significance of warmth, clarity, and collaboration, Andy shares insights on fostering well-being for both staff and residents. Emphasizing the need for clear behavioral expectations, tailored training, and open communication channels, he highlights the importance of feeling valued and secure in promoting positive culture. Andy also explores the role of community involvement and support networks in nurturing connections and mutual aid. Tune in for practical strategies and valuable insights on cultivating nurturing and supportive care environments. Timestamps: 00:00:21:05 - Introducing the podcast and the importance of first impressions in care settings. 00:01:10:12 - Highlighting the significance of a warm, welcoming environment for improved well-being. 00:02:42:04 - Emphasizing the importance of clear behavioral expectations and consistent policies. 00:04:14:21 - Advocating for collaborative decision-making to ensure inclusivity and adherence. 00:05:18:00 - Discussing the importance of feeling valued and secure for staff and residents alike. 00:06:23:23 - Addressing the need for tailored training to meet specific care setting requirements. 00:08:03:00 - Stressing the role of knowledge in empathy and quality care provision. 00:08:20:08 - Highlighting the necessity of clear communication channels to prevent negative culture. 00:09:20:23 - Exploring the importance of community involvement and support for positive outcomes. 00:12:46:23 - Encouraging caregivers to seek community support and build networks for mutual aid. 00:13:49:06 - Illustrating the value of community initiatives like a residential home market in fostering connections. 00:14:06:10 - Wrapping up with an invitation for audience input on fostering positive environments. Key Messages: First impressions matter: Andy stresses the importance of initial perceptions in shaping relationships within care settings. Warm, welcoming environments: Creating a homely atmosphere fosters a sense of self-esteem and well-being among residents and staff. Clear behavioral expectations: Consistent policies and guidelines ensure everyone is on the same page and promote a positive culture. Collaboration is key: Involving all stakeholders in decision-making enhances inclusivity and adherence to established norms. Value and security: Feeling valued and secure in one's role is essential for maintaining morale and productivity. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #PositiveCare #NurturingEnvironments #CommunitySupport #ClearCommunication #InclusiveCulture #WellnessInCare #CollaborativeCare #ValueAndSecurity #TrainingForSuccess #OpenDialogue #EmpathyInAction #SupportNetworks
In this powerful episode of the Able to Care podcast, hosts Andy Baker and Nadine Sutton welcome Sosa Henkoma, a survivor and a beacon of resilience who shares his profound journey from the streets of Nigeria to the challenges he faced in the UK. A keynote speaker featured in The Guardian, Sosa dives deep into the cultural shocks, personal losses, and his battle against exploitation that shaped his life. His story is not just about survival but about transforming suffering into awareness and empowerment for the community. Sosa Henkoma is a survivor of child criminal exploitation in the UK. Forced into a gang at a young age, he experienced violence and hardship. Despite this, Sosa escaped that life and now works to help others. He uses his experiences to raise awareness about modern slavery and advocates for vulnerable youth. Sosa is a consultant for organisations like Youth Unity and the Human Trafficking Foundation. Key Moments: 00:00:21 - Introduction of Sosa and his background. 00:01:46 - Sosa's early life in Nigeria and the cultural shock of moving to the UK. 00:03:15 - Discussion on the familial and societal challenges Sosa faced upon relocating. 00:04:05 - Sosa describes the breakdown of family relationships and subsequent abuse. 00:09:27 - Sosa's experience with foster care and encountering a new, but challenging, family dynamic. 00:14:05 - Insights into Sosa's struggle with identity and belonging in his new environments. 00:19:23 - Sosa's journey into public speaking and advocacy work. 00:26:09 - The pivotal role of understanding one’s past to shape a better future. 00:32:14 - The importance of immediate needs and how they can lead to manipulation or support. 00:39:32 - Sosa reflects on the long-term impacts of his experiences and the importance of trust and connection. Key Messages: Awareness and education are crucial in changing perspectives about child exploitation and recovery. Understanding and addressing immediate needs can lead to either manipulation or genuine support, impacting long-term outcomes. The importance of supportive relationships and trust in overcoming adverse childhood experiences. How personal history and experiences shape one's actions and decisions in adulthood. Join us for this profound conversation that not only sheds light on the struggles many face but also highlights the strength and resilience possible in the face of adversity. Be sure to engage with Sosa's work through the links provided in our podcast description to learn more and support his mission. Find Sosa on Instagram @sosa_est or LinkedIn sosa-henkoma-a99514251 Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media @abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations Exploitation, criminal exploitation, CCE, trafficking, modern slavery, care, looked after children, foster care.
🎧 Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast, sponsored by Able Training Support Ltd, as he explores the crucial topic of creating sensory safe spaces in care environments. Gain insights into the diverse challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing issues, trauma backgrounds, and mental health conditions. Discover practical strategies for designing calming environments, from managing visual stimuli to implementing aromatherapy. Explore proactive approaches for stress management and behavior regulation, and learn essential safety considerations for maintaining secure sensory spaces. Share your experiences and insights within our community as we strive to foster positive outcomes for all. Timestamps: 00:00:20 - Introduction to Sensory Safe Spaces: Host Andy Baker introduces the episode topic, focusing on the importance of creating sensory safe spaces in various care settings. 00:00:54 - Understanding Sensory Processing Challenges: Discussion on the prevalence of sensory processing issues, including their impact on individuals across different populations, such as those on the autistic spectrum or with mental health conditions. 00:02:13 - Importance of Environment Design: Explanation of how the sensory environment plays a crucial role in managing distress behavior, emphasizing the need for sensory safe spaces within care environments. 00:03:38 - Visual Stimuli Management: Exploration of strategies for managing visual stimuli, including adjusting lighting and utilizing calming visual elements to create low-stimulus environments. 00:06:45 - Addressing Auditory Preferences: Discussion on addressing auditory preferences, including providing quiet spaces or utilizing white noise machines to promote relaxation. 00:08:15 - Tactile Comfort and Autonomy: Explanation of the importance of tactile comfort and providing choices in sensory environments, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities. 00:09:21 - Aromatherapy Benefits: Overview of the benefits of aromatherapy in promoting well-being, with a focus on selecting suitable scents based on individual preferences. 00:10:43 - Utilizing Smells Strategically: Discussion on the strategic use of scents to influence mood and behavior, with examples from care settings to enhance nutrition and promote relaxation. 00:11:27 - Incorporating Movement: Exploration of the importance of incorporating movement-based sensory activities, such as swinging or trampolining, to regulate sensory experiences. 00:12:52 - Proactive Planning and Safety Measures: Overview of proactive planning strategies, including minimizing sensory stimuli, providing choices, and ensuring safety within sensory safe spaces. Enjoyed this episode? Don't miss out on future conversations! Make sure to subscribe to our podcast for upcoming episodes featuring insightful guests and fantastic hosts. Stay connected! Follow us on social media [@abletraining on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram, @abletocarepodcast on TikTok) for behind-the-scenes content, updates, and community engagement. Want to delve deeper into topics discussed on the show? Visit our training website https://www.able-training.co.uk/ for valuable resources and courses to support caregivers on their journey. Thank you for listening! Your support means the world to us. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations #SensorySafeSpaces, #CareEnvironments, #SensoryProcessing, #Well-being,# VisualStimuli, #Aromatherapy,#ProactivePlanning, #SafetyMeasures, #Podcast,#AbleToCarePodcast