Debra and Peter are doing a Podcast

Episode 43! Debra and Peter dive into some of the toughest issues facing the UK charity sector and wider society.They begin with Peter’s joy at Somerset’s cricket triumph before quickly turning to more serious matters: the protests around Donald Trump’s state visit, the disturbing rise of racism and anti-immigration sentiment, and how politicians and the media fuel unfounded fears. Debra argues strongly against framing prejudice as ‘legitimate concerns’, and both hosts reflect on the stark contrast between attitudes to Ukrainian refugees and asylum seekers from elsewhere.The conversation then shifts to leadership. How long should a chief executive stay in post? What’s the difference between a tough job and one that makes you miserable? Debra shares frank stories about her early years at DSC, including staff hostility, and gives practical advice on tackling bullying—whether from above, below or sideways.Plus: some sharp words on government reshuffles, and why constant ministerial change makes life harder for charities.What do you think: are immigration fears being mishandled, and how long is too long in a leadership role? Let us know in the comments.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 42 takes us from Somerset cricket glory to some of the sector’s toughest debates.Peter kicks off with tales of nail-biting wins and rubbing shoulders with cricket legends at a South African charity event. But the conversation soon widens to Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams and the unseen, everyday role of charities in keeping society ticking.From there, Debra and Peter tackle flags and patriotism. What do symbols really mean? When does pride tip into exclusion, and why do flags make some people feel celebrated while leaving others intimidated? Expect frank exchanges on history, nationalism and belonging.Then it’s on to Prince Harry’s £1m donation to Children in Need. Does motivation matter, or should charities simply welcome the funds? This leads into a wider exploration of “tainted money”, trustee responsibilities and the Charity Commission’s rules on refusing donations.It’s an episode full of sharp contrasts: cricket and community, pride and discomfort, generosity and suspicion. And as ever, Debra and Peter bring warmth, candour and a touch of humour to the hardest questions in the sector.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: Justin Martin

In Episode 41, Debra and Peter start with a surprise escape story featuring Peter’s cat Hetti, but quickly turn to a much bigger theme: trust. From mischievous pets to newly promoted staff, they reflect on how leaders know when to let go and how to find the right balance between support and autonomy.Debra shares why she prefers hiring for potential rather than experience, and why the 50th anniversary of DSC is a good time to remember—and question—your founding principles.Then, a fiery segment on meetings, sparked by England cricket captain Harry Brook’s comment that meetings are a waste of time. Debra is having none of it. The hosts explore how meetings are actually crucial to effective leadership, team building and problem solving. Expect talk of De Bono’s Six Hats, appreciative inquiry and “what if” thinking.Finally, they wade into the eternal debate: are there too many charities? Debra and Peter offer a firm defence of choice, diversity and grassroots energy, arguing that the sector’s complexity is a strength, not a flaw.Plus: cricket, cats and a few gentle digs at Thames Water.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: Gabby Poznansky

Episode 40! Debra and Peter return with a packed conversation that moves from the cricket ground to the boardroom and into the heart of the refugee sector.They reflect on what good trusteeship really means, and why it’s not just down to the chair to keep everyone informed. Boards work best when responsibility is shared, and when every trustee knows they are fully accountable.The discussion then turns to a pressing issue: refugee and migrant charities facing growing hostility. From online abuse to threats at the office door, Debra and Peter explore how organisations can balance the need for transparency with the duty to protect staff and volunteers. It’s a sobering reminder of the climate many charities now operate in, and a call for compassion over hostility. Debra also highlights this thoughtful LinkedIn post by José Blazquez on the subject: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jose-pablo-blazquez_refugeeswelcome-empathyinaction-charitysector-activity-7366443037574492161-EAiv?utm_source=social_share_send&utm_medium=member_desktop_web&rcm=ACoAAAXFFmEBuE48r931JfDxY9By6LgWGDUJkvUAnd for leaders heading into autumn, there’s practical advice on creating boundaries that actually work. From the “acting-in-absence” policy, to why your diary shouldn’t look like a supermarket barcode, to the now-classic glass vs plastic balls metaphor, it’s about leading well without burning out.Plus: baking, Brussels, and a few friendly grumbles about cricket.Have a thought to share? Comment below or email us with your views!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blazquez

Leadership comes first. When a chair walks into a staff away day, the power in the room shifts. Debra and Peter explore how to be present without taking over. Set expectations clearly, invite staff to shape the work, listen with intent, and keep your own opinions light so the team can do its best work.Then, what you wear and why. Clothes send signals whether we like it or not. From suits and ties to hoodies and T-shirts, they unpack how context shapes choices, how to show respect without losing authenticity, and why women still get judged more harshly. Zelensky at the White House comes up as a useful example of principle meeting pragmatism.Finally, volunteers on the street. Where is the line between helpful community action and risky vigilante patrols? The Bournemouth case prompts a look at safeguarding, accountability and why collaboration with the police beats going it alone.Plus: three cats testing a new cat flap, a Brussels away day with the Five Rights Foundation team, bins and fly tipping, and a nod to Amanda Jade Wellington at the Oval.Tell us how you handle leadership presence at away days, what dress signals work in your context, and where you stand on street patrols. Add your thoughts in the comments.YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 38 finds Peter settling into life in Somerset after a house move that involved three cats, upside-down beds, and a crash course in rural fruit-picking. But between the rhubarb and the plums, there’s been time for big conversations.Debra’s recent viral LinkedIn post on why leaders should never criticise their predecessors kicks off a deep dive into leadership transitions, respecting the past while building for the future, and the value of framing change positively. The pair share personal experiences, from NSPCC history exercises to 15-year-old work experience gone awry, all showing how fresh eyes and old habits collide.The discussion widens to the hard truths about volunteering: its true costs, why it’s not a free resource, and the tension between financial necessity and community values – illustrated by the Samaritans’ controversial branch closures. And finally, they dissect the Charity Commission’s report on Sentebale, exploring how governance can collapse without clear behaviour codes and conflict resolution rules.Plus, Somerset County Cricket Club turns 150, there’s cider talk, and Debra offers Peter culinary suggestions for his glut of pears.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change: https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Debra and Peter are back, with plums, pears and punchy opinions.Peter shares what it’s like to chair a global board for the first time (hint: annual accounts are involved), while Debra unveils a secret weapon for apple harvesting. But most of this week’s chat tackles the big stuff:Child online safety: With Ofcom’s new Online Safety powers kicking in, Peter reflects on years of advocacy for stronger digital protections. They take on free speech sceptics, tech company excuses, and why we wouldn’t let kids near unsafe toys. So why accept it online?Board governance: From trustee-only sessions to strategic away days, Peter’s debut meeting at Five Rights Foundation prompts an honest exchange about what boards really need to work well.Doom loops vs determination: Debra explains why she compared the Lionesses’ Euro run to charity sector resilience, and why grim media headlines don’t reflect the full story.All that, plus why apple mush is the enemy and how a heavy-duty grabber changed Debra’s life.Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Links and resourcesDebra’s Lionesses piece (DSC blog): https://www.dsc.org.uk/content/what-charities-can-learn-from-the-england-womens-football-team/Five Rights Foundation: child-rights resources – https://5rightsfoundation.com/resources/Ofcom’s Online Safety Act consultation – https://www.ofcom.org.uk/online-safety/illegal-and-harmful-content/protecting-children-from-harms-online/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 36 dives deep into last week’s hush‑hush unveiling of the Government and Civil Society Covenant – complete with a last‑minute venue reveal, ministers packed shoulder‑to‑shoulder in the Science Museum, and a buffet so petite even Debra’s good humour wavered.Debra and Peter unpack the Covenant’s four headline principles, from independence and campaigning rights to data transparency, then tackle the big questions: Will it actually put money where its mouth is? Can small local charities speak truth to power without payback? And what sort of “teeth” would keep future governments from quietly binning the whole thing?Along the way, they swap ideas on fair funding, better contracting and how the new Covenant Council could give every corner of the sector a genuine voice.Have thoughts on the Covenant? Comment below or email us – we’d love to hear your take.YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

❤️ This episode is dedicated to Jenny (2018 to 2025), Peter's beloved tabby. She will be deeply missed.Episode 35 is all about interviews – from both sides of the table.First up: preparing as a candidate. Debra shares straight-talking tips on researching the organisation, framing savvy questions and owning your nerves so they work for you instead of against you.Then: designing the interview itself. Peter explains why competence-based panels, timed tasks and values-based questions can reveal more than clever hypotheticals, and how to make applicants feel welcome while still stretching them.Finally: learning from the near-misses. Together they reflect on interviews that didn’t go to plan, confidence gaps that keep great people from applying and why the jobs you don’t land can still shape a brilliant career.What’s the best interview advice you’ve ever been given? Comment below or email us with your thoughts!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blázquez

Episode 34! Debra and Peter take on two huge questions: why are a million UK children still living in destitution, and what can today’s charities learn from Live Aid’s 40‑year legacy?First, they unpack the latest numbers on child poverty and destitution, asking whether family‑hub plans and the long‑debated two‑child cap are really tackling the root causes, or just papering over widening cracks.Then it’s off to Wembley (in spirit) as the hosts reminisce about Live Aid’s goose‑bump moment and challenge the sector to balance headline‑grabbing fundraisers with the hard graft of systemic change. From starfish stories to small‑grants lifelines, they debate whether “band‑aids” still matter.All this, plus period‑poverty campaigns, trustee longevity at Band Aid, and Peter’s plot to squeeze in a day at the Test match.Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

This week Debra and Peter touch upon looking after your pets in a heatwave as well as hearing from beloved family members via old cassette tapes. They also discuss leadership challenges in-depth, including the power of the spoken word, how the words we use make such a powerful difference, government “U-turns” and alien visitors. They also discuss organisational consultations, engaging with staff and listening to them. And they talk about agreement vs alignment in terms of relationships with the Board.Subscribe and don’t miss the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: Justin Martin

Debra recounts her journey (literally and metaphorically) to Leeds, where she gave a keynote to Yorkshire Funders. She dives into why funders must speak up more often, not to demand money but to influence change. Peter reflects on his own time at the Lottery and reinforces how insights from grantmakers can shape public policy in ways that quietly transform lives. The conversation then unpacks the obsession with short-term impact. What if some of the most meaningful change takes decades to surface? From the legacy of Sure Start to the language of transformational vs transactional funding, it’s a rich discussion that challenges the status quo. They also talk about leadership and culture: how big vs small organisations handle remote work, staff connection, and that classic "who looks taller in real life" moment. From all-staff quizzes to serious reflections on hybrid working, it’s thoughtful and funny in equal measure. Plus: Peter is moving house (with four cats) and Debra still isn’t over being mistaken for a lace-tablecloth enthusiast. Subscribe and don’t miss the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 31! Debra and Peter are back, tackling some hefty themes with their usual wit and wisdom.Peter kicks off with a fascinating dive into "The Art of Delivery", a new book exploring the real-world messiness of turning strategy into impact. From Prime Ministerial promises to classroom outcomes, and even drones in Ukraine, the duo reflect on what it really takes to get things done.That messiness also shows up in charity work, whether it’s launching a governance app or campaigning for change. They celebrate the power of persistence and share behind-the-scenes stories that prove successful delivery is as much about culture as it is about planning.Then it’s onto Volunteers Week. What do volunteers really need? How do you keep them motivated, and when does their goodwill become hard to manage? Expect honest takes and plenty of praise for the unsung heroes of the sector.Finally, they dig into the government’s latest Dormant Assets announcement. Good news for funding if it gets distributed wisely. Will Peter survive the democracy of cricket? The vote is in! Plus: memories of pocket money, cheques and the disappearing art of going to the bank.Subscribe and don’t miss the next episode!The Art of Delivery: https://www.bitebackpublishing.com/books/the-art-of-delivery The Governance App: https://thegovernanceapp.org.uk/YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 30! That’s over 15 hours of Debra and Peter unpacking complex ideas and challenging assumptions!This week, Debra and Peter dive into some of the most complex issues in the charity sector. First up: political activity. Why are charities legally restricted from engaging in political campaigning, while businesses are free to openly support parties and candidates? They talk about the implications of this regulatory double standard and ask whether it's time for a serious rethink.Then, the spotlight turns to think tanks. Debra and Peter discuss the controversy surrounding the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) and question what qualifies an organisation to claim charitable status. From opaque funding sources to ideological influence, they explore what real transparency should look like—and whether certain groups may be stretching the definition of 'education' just a bit too far.Are these just isolated cases, or signs of deeper cracks in the sector’s regulatory foundation? Tune in for a lively, thoughtful discussion—and don’t forget to join the debate. Comment below or email us with your thoughts!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blázquez

This week's episode brings us a cracking mix of topics:Ever forgotten your passport before an international flight, or are you the one who turns up four hours early?Debra and Peter chat about the latest Sentencing Review and the absolutely vital role of criminal charities within it. They also share their views on the current political landscape, with the latest local elections and the rising prominence of Reform UK.And discuss the news about an asylum seeker bringing his dog to the UK by small boat, and how some media have sensationalised the story negatively. Plus, they delve into an initiative Debra was working on to make rented homes more pet-friendly (even if it's an indoor donkey!).All this and more, in Episode 29 of Debra and Peter are Doing a Podcast!Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez

Debra and Peter have an interesting debate about immigration, prompted by Keir Starmer's recent speech on immigration in the UK and his comment: 'The UK risks becoming an island of strangers without strong rules on immigration and integration.'They also discuss Artificial Intelligence, commenting on the recent Neighbourly report that states that 80% of small charities are not using AI.The Charity AI Conference - https://www.dsc.org.uk/event/the-charity-ai-conference-setting-yourself-up-for-success/ 5 Rights Foundation: Children & AI Design Code - https://5rightsfoundation.com/children-and-ai-code-of-conduct/ Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez

Tune in to Episode 27 of 'Debra and Peter are doing a Podcast' for an insightful discussion on leadership, change management, and navigating complex issues in the charity sector. Debra and Peter explore the power of positive framing, and DSC's values of Excellence and Empathy. They also tackle the complexities of navigating controversial issues, including whether organizations should publicly share their opinions. Plus, Peter shares an inspiring motto to live by: Be brave, be kind, and be the best version of yourself.Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez

After a week's break for Easter to recharge our batteries (unlike Peter's car), we are back with a new episode, where Debra and Peter discuss health and the importance of sharing information (especially between Trustees, Chairs, and Executives) as well as the value of asking challenging questions. As the cricket season progresses and Peter's team is unfortunately underperforming, Peter asks Debra how to approach these leadership situations and how to find the balance between challenge and support and Debra provides a key recommendation: LEARN, ADAPT, and EVOLVE.Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez

Special episode number 25 where Debra and Peter answer the questions you've sent us during the week! What's one of your career highlights? Favourite campaign you've been involved in? Best advice would you give to someone starting a career in the charity sector?...and more! Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ Twitter: https://x.com/DebAllcockTyler More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Twitter: https://x.com/peterwanless Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez

In today's episode, Debra and Peter discuss about this topic, which came up in a meeting they both attended in person. In connection with OXFAM's announcement about jobs at risk to save £10m, our presenters talk about the message left by the article when mentioning the 'efficiency of charities'. And on a more positive note, they both commented on the news about The Henry Smith Charity giving its grant holders a one-off payment later this year to cover the remainder of their current grant!And to celebrate next week's episode 25, we are asking our listeners to send us questions for Debra and Peter as the next episode will be a Q&A with them!Send your questions to jblazquez@dsc.org.uk or comment below for the next episode!YouTube Subscribe: YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock TylerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ Twitter: https://x.com/DebAllcockTyler More Peter WanlessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/ Twitter: https://x.com/peterwanless Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: José Blázquez