Why parents take drugs and what we can do about it

Relational Activism in Social Work

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

28:24

In our second installment of the Small Business Starter Kit series - we’re tackling a topic that’s sometimes tricky, sometimes confusing, but ever-present: taxes. Hosts Austin and Jannese have an insightful conversation with entrepreneur Isabella Rosal who started 7th Sky Ventures , an exporter and distributor of craft spirits, beer, and wine. Having lived and worked in two different countries and started a company in a heavily-regulated field, Isabella is no stranger to navigating the paperwork-laden and jargon-infused maze of properly understanding taxes for a newly formed small business. Join us as she shares her story and provides valuable insight into how to tackle your business’ taxes - so they don’t tackle you. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

circa un anno fa 53:33

In this conversation, we cover:

Understanding Addiction and Trauma

Drawing from Gabor Maté’s In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, the discussion highlights addiction as a response to trauma, rooted in biological, psychological, and social factors. Ian reflects on his personal battle with addiction, describing substances as a “medicine” for unhealed pain and trauma, and shares poignant moments from his recovery journey.
The Power of Connection and Compassion

Ian recounts how a solicitor’s kindness and non-judgmental approach helped him acknowledge his need for change, emphasizing the transformative power of compassion and human connection in recovery. Rich builds on this, encouraging social workers to see beyond behaviours and recognize the underlying pain and unmet needs of those they support.

Social Work and Relational Practice

The conversation underscores the critical role of social workers in fostering trust, compassion, and understanding. Rich and Ian discuss how professionals can balance empathy with accountability, offering practical insights into working with parents struggling with substance misuse.
Links:

Contact Ian Thomas: Email at ianpresents@gmail.com or connect via LinkedIn for speaking engagements or workshops: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-thomas-5b573a100/
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/
Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme
Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/
Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/
Rich Devine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/

44 episodi

#Podcasting Education #Relational Activism In Social Work #Child Protection

Why parents take drugs and what we can do about it

Relational Activism in Social Work

published circa un anno fa

MP3•Pagina principale dell'episodio

In this conversation, we cover:

Understanding Addiction and Trauma

Social Work and Relational Practice

44 episodi

#Podcasting Education #Relational Activism In Social Work #Child Protection

Semua episod

1
Rich's Journey of Change 44:39

2 giorni fa44:39

44:39

Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
Child Protection vs. Family Support 52:17

9 giorni fa52:17

52:17

1
How to see the person not the problem 56:46

16 giorni fa56:46

56:46

1
Relationships and 'Spongy boundaries' 49:34

23 giorni fa49:34

49:34

Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
What is Relational Activism 39:50

4 weeks fa39:50

39:50

1
Care, Prison and Transformation 50:08

5 weeks fa50:08

50:08

Opening Discussion: Teaching & Activism Conversation with Lee: Care Experience, Prison, and Activism Lee’s Background: Grew up in care, moving through 28+ placements. Entered the justice system at 17, receiving a 5-year sentence Lee talks about: The Impact of the Fellowship & Retreat Reflects on the Justice System & Care Experience Describes the cycle of placement breakdowns leading to further instability. Critiques the justice system for failing to recognize trauma and providing inadequate mental health support. Notes how prison officers often viewed him as “a problem” rather than exploring underlying issues. Reflections & Closing Thoughts: Rich: Shares personal insights from retreat experiences, including the significance of eye contact in developing intimacy and emotional connection. Tim: Celebrates Lee’s resilience and activism, highlighting his drive to influence change at both a grassroots and policy level. Emphasizes the importance of mutual support, professional collaboration, and finding strength in lived experience. Eckhart Tolle Reflection: “When you make friends with the present moment, you feel at home, no matter where you are.” Key Takeaways: Care & Stability Matter: Placement moves impact trust and stability for young people. Prisons Need Trauma-Informed Approaches: Labeling and pathologizing behavior without support fuels further harm. Lived Experience is a Powerful Force for Change: People like Lee bring invaluable insights to reform efforts. Connection Heals: Simple, human interactions—whether in public living rooms or through eye contact—can be transformational. Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
Navigating conflict in social work 45:24

6 weeks fa45:24

45:24

In this episode of the Relation Activism in Social Work podcast, hosts Tim Fisher and Rich Devine engage in a lively discussion that covers a range of topics from personal anecdotes about daily life to reflections on their university experiences and the challenges faced in direct work with children in social work. They also touch on upcoming professional events and introduce guest Charlotte Spires, who shares insights on community dynamics and gentrification in Bristol. The conversation delves into the complexities of conflict within social work, exploring its fundamental role in the profession. Tim, Rich and Charlotte discuss the misconceptions surrounding social work, the realities of managing relationships with families, and the importance of trust and change. They highlight the inherent tensions between the rights of parents and children and the challenges social workers face in navigating these conflicts. The discussion emphasises the need for humility, understanding, and recognising the systemic factors influencing family dynamics. Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
Why parents take drugs and what we can do about it 53:33

7 weeks fa53:33

53:33

This episode explores the profound complexities of addiction, trauma, and recovery, featuring the deeply personal and inspiring journey of guest Ian Thomas, a social worker and speaker with lived experience of addiction and healing. In this conversation, we cover: Understanding Addiction and Trauma Drawing from Gabor Maté’s In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, the discussion highlights addiction as a response to trauma, rooted in biological, psychological, and social factors. Ian reflects on his personal battle with addiction, describing substances as a “medicine” for unhealed pain and trauma, and shares poignant moments from his recovery journey. The Power of Connection and Compassion Ian recounts how a solicitor’s kindness and non-judgmental approach helped him acknowledge his need for change, emphasizing the transformative power of compassion and human connection in recovery. Rich builds on this, encouraging social workers to see beyond behaviours and recognize the underlying pain and unmet needs of those they support. Social Work and Relational Practice The conversation underscores the critical role of social workers in fostering trust, compassion, and understanding. Rich and Ian discuss how professionals can balance empathy with accountability, offering practical insights into working with parents struggling with substance misuse. Links: Contact Ian Thomas: Email at ianpresents@gmail.com or connect via LinkedIn for speaking engagements or workshops: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-thomas-5b573a100/ Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
Supporting newly qualified social workers 54:01

8 weeks fa54:01

54:01

In this episode, Tim Fisher and Rich Devine kick off 2025 with reflections on personal and professional goals, recent events, and an inspiring conversation with guest Vicki Shevlin, creator of Social Work Sorted . The discussion explores social work practice, personal growth, and the profession’s challenges. Key Highlights: 1. Personal Reflections and Goals: •Rich emphasizes living an ego-balanced life, inspired by James Hollis, while Tim focuses on reading and lifelong learning. •They discuss balancing professional aspirations with personal well-being. 2. Love Shows Up Event: •A celebration of the “Love Shows Up” Valentine’s Day event and the importance of relational activism in social work. 3. Guest Interview – Vicki Shevlin: •Vicki shares her transition to independent practice, her mantra “Go where the love is,” and her support for newly qualified social workers (NQSWs). •The discussion covers boundaries, empathy, and authentic family connections. 4. The Role of Social Media: •Vicki reflects on building a social work community online and balancing its opportunities and challenges. 5. Final Reflections: •The episode closes with a reading from Eckhart Tolle, focusing on acceptance and awareness. Links: Vicki Shevlin: https://www.socialworksorted.com/aboutme Vicki's podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1926820 Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
The courage to be disliked 1:00:44

12 weeks fa1:00:44

1:00:44

1
The use of self in social work 1:01:22

13 weeks fa1:01:22

1:01:22

In this episode, Tim Fisher and Rich Devine are joined by Becca Carr-Hopkins for a powerful conversation about use of self, attachment theory, and the transformative power of relationships in social work practice. Becca shares her journey into social work, insights on adapting to challenging environments, and how understanding attachment can unlock deeper connections with families. Rich reflects on the profound impact of supervision that centre's emotions and relationships, while Becca explores the importance of creating space for reflection in emotionally charged work. Whether you’re a practitioner, student, or someone interested in the human side of social work, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical wisdom. 🎧 Listen now to explore: • How attachment and adaptation shape behaviour • The role of self-awareness in relational practice • Why reflective supervision is essential for growth Check out Becca's work here: https://iswmatters.co.uk/ Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
How to create systemic change 59:57

14 weeks fa59:57

59:57

Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
How to assess a parents capacity to change 1:06:33

15 weeks fa1:06:33

1:06:33

The podcast focuses on two main themes: assessing capacity to change in social work and a parent’s personal journey through the child protection system. Part 1: Assessing Capacity to Change Rich Devine shares insights from his 14 years in social work, focusing on the challenges of evaluating a parent’s capacity to change within child protection contexts. 1. Challenges in Assessing Change: 2. A Framework for Assessing Capacity to Change: Part 2: A Parent’s Perspective – Lee’s Story Lee Crouch shares his personal journey of transformation from losing custody of his children to their eventual reunification. 1. The Initial Crisis: • Struggled with substance misuse, unresolved grief, and anger, which led to the removal of his children. • Court proceedings felt dismissive of his early efforts to change, compounding frustration. 2. The Turning Point: • A program with SWIFT (a support service) helped Lee learn to process emotions, manage anger, and face his struggles directly. • “Talking” became a key tool for change, allowing him to release emotions constructively and improve relationships. 3. Rebuilding Trust and Contact: • Despite resistance from the local authority, Lee and his partner advocated for increased contact with their children. • Over time, consistent effort and collaboration with foster carers and social workers led to more contact and eventually reunification. 4. Lessons Learned: • Lee emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes (e.g., addiction, grief) rather than merely imposing parenting courses. • He advocates for a supportive network for parents in similar situations and stresses the need for proactive interventions before crises escalate. The episode concludes with reflections on embracing the present moment, acknowledging the constant potential for change and growth in the “now.” We hope you enjoyed this episode, please do contact us and share your reflections. If you have any questions or topics you would like us to explore, do get in touch: Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
The why, what and how of Family Group Conferences 53:10

16 weeks fa53:10

53:10

In this episode of Relational Activism in Social Work , hosts Rich Devine and Tim Fisher kick off with a light-hearted discussion about Tim’s potential rebranding as “Timothy,” complete with tweed jackets and tortoiseshell glasses. Join them for this playful start before diving into the core topic: The Why, What, and How of Family Group Conferences . Recorded on a crisp Friday morning, this conversation blends humor, insight, and practical reflections on relational social work Tim's article: https://ore.exeter.ac.uk/repository/bitstream/handle/10871/138533/bernheim-et-al-2024-the-power-and-potential-of-space-and-place-in-family-group-conferencing-reimagining-the-role-of-the.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y FGC video https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=udHEptpe9nQ We hope you enjoyed this episode, please do contact us and share your reflections. If you have any questions or topics you would like us to explore, do get in touch: Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ Rich's BASW Child Protection sessions: https://basw.co.uk/social-work-child-protection-professional-practice-programme Rich Devine's blog: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ Tim Fisher LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timfisher101/ Rich Devine LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-devine-181763177/…

1
Small acts that make a big difference as a social worker 49:15

18 weeks fa49:15