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In this episode, we meet Michelle, mum to a five-year-old who was first recognised as having additional needs when he was just 18 months old. She talks candidly about navigating challenging behaviours, the long journey through assessments, and the struggle to find a school that could truly meet his needs. With her son now settling into a specialist setting, Michelle shares the relief and hope that comes with finally finding the right support. Michelle also reflects on the reality of putting her own life on hold — stepping back from work, missing out on social opportunities, and restructuring everything around her son’s needs. Despite this, she’s become skilled at sourcing advice, funding and practical help, and offers invaluable insights for other parents facing similar barriers. This is an honest, informative conversation about persistence, advocacy and the unseen work so many parent Carers carry every day.

Sadie became a Carer for her husband very suddenly. She has learnt so much about caring and has used this experience to set up Young Carer support at her workplace, Daubney Academy. The support network that Sadie has established at Daubney is incredible and all the little things she has put in place are making a huge difference to the Young Carers who have been identified at her school. Sadie's energy and enthusiasm for providing support is truly inspirational.

In this episode, we meet Sheila – a dedicated primary school teacher who spotted something others had missed. When she realised one of her pupils was a Young Carer, she took action, creating support for all the Young Carers in her school. Sheila’s story is a powerful example of how schools can make a real difference when they recognise and respond to the needs of Young Carers. Listen as Sheila shares what inspired her, the impact it’s had on pupils, and why she believes every school should follow suit.

Tanya Franks is a well-known actress, recognised for her extensive theatre work and familiar to many for her role as Rainie in EastEnders. She’s also appeared in Broadchurch, Pulling, and numerous other TV and stage productions. Tanya cared for her stepfather, Derek, during his experience with Alzheimer’s disease. That deeply personal journey led her to found Elimtia — a non-profit organisation working to promote brain health and advocate for a future where Dementia and Alzheimer’s can be prevented. In this episode, Tanya shares her story, her passion, and her inspiring drive to create lasting change. 👉 www.elimtia.com 👉 www.carersinbeds.org.uk

Moona has been caring for most of her life. She was very young when her mother developed severe mental health issues. Moona's care responsibilities changed the direction of her life and career completely. Moona shares her fascinating story and tells how she ultimately found her passion through caring.

Tizi has cared for her parents since she was 10 years old. She is now a Young Adult Carer but also works for Carers in Bedfordshire as a Young Carer Support Worker. Tizi has a wealth of experience and has seen many sides of caring. She is an inspirational young person and its fascinating to hear how she has managed the difficulties of caring whilst young.

Ray has been caring for his daughter for a long time. She has complex mental health issues which means she relies on him for much of her care. Ray's wife has now been diagnosed with Dementia, so he now cares for her too. Ray has a wealth of experience to share, and he explains how new bureaucracy has only made his role even more difficult.

Roger cared for his wife until she passed away. While caring for her he had been forced to stop working. After she died he had to rebuild his life. How was he going to return to work? Rebuild lost friendships? Was it possible to use any of the skills he had learnt whilst caring in his career? Roger shares his journey from Carer to Former Carer.

Eileen has been caring for Gemma, her adult child, for over 10 years as she battled cancer. We hear about the ups and downs of Gemma's illness and how, as a carer, Eileen, had to cope at the various stages. Gemma has sadly passed away since this recording but it was amazing to hear from Eileen at this crucial time in her caring journey.

Lana has been caring for her mother alone since she was 4 years old. She is now away studying at university while still caring remotely. Lana shares her story for us and you will see how her caring has impacted her life, her attitude and her goals. Lana has something to teach all of us, and by sharing her story she is not only helping those going through a similar situation, but, indeed all of us, as her perspective is wise and inspirational. For comments and feedback please email [email protected]

Jenny is a former/current carer and is also our Benefits Advisor who has helped thousands of carers receive the support they are entitled to. Jenny has a wealth of experience and stories that will warm your heart.

Mark cares full-time to his son, 20 year old Zach. We discuss his day to day reality, and how he manages to take time out for himself. Mark also has ideas about how services could be improved for Carers, especially reducing some worries about the future.