Claim OwnershipThe Social Matters Podcast
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© 2025 The Social Matters Podcast
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Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social issues from their front room/studio. Expect debate and hard hitting real talk with a sprinkle of top drawer humour to keep it moving.
132 Episodes
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In this episode, we dive into an important and timely question: what does it mean to be British today? Against the backdrop of a rising far-right movement and growing social divides, we explore how ideas of identity, belonging and community are being shaped and challenged in the UK right now. What does “Britishness” mean in a society that’s increasingly diverse but also increasingly polarised? How do we hold onto shared values when fear and exclusion are on the rise? Together, we discuss the ...
In this episode, we’re joined by the inspiring Jade Barnett, co-founder of Power2Prevail, an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable young people to see that their past and present circumstances don’t define their future. Jade’s work focuses on supporting care-experienced young people as they navigate the journey towards independence, employment and self-belief. Through mentorship, training and storytelling, Power2Prevail helps young people recognise their potential and take ownershi...
We’re back with a brand new episode of the Social Matters Podcast! Released just two days after World Mental Health Day, this conversation explores into a topic of loneliness. What does loneliness really mean? How does it show up in our lives, our work and our communities? In this episode, we explore the many faces of loneliness, from the quiet, passing moments of disconnection to the deeper, more enduring experiences that can affect our wellbeing. We talk about why loneliness can be so har...
In this episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Richard Yeboah, author of From Hackney, With Love: An Intimate History of Gentrification. Richard grew up in Hackney and saw first-hand how the area changed. Rising rents, new neighbours, and long-time communities feeling the squeeze. In our conversation, he blends personal stories, research and local voices to unpack what gentrification really looks and feels like. Who gets pushed out? Who gets to move in? And just as importantly, who gets to t...
We’re back with the first episode of Season 8 of the Social Matters Podcast! To kick things off, we’re jump right into a conversation about the idea of moments vs movements in the context of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). From campaigns to events, moments can spark awareness and conversation but what does it take to translate that energy into long-term change? We explore the tension between short bursts of attention and the ongoing, deeper work of building sustainable movements. Why...
In this final episode of the season, we reflect on the theme of hope: what it means to hold onto it, nurture it, and protect it, especially in times that feel unjust. We’re living in a world where discrimination and division remain ever present, and the noise of those who want to divide can often feel loud. But amidst it all, hope persists, not as blind optimism but as a deliberate, powerful act of resistance. In this conversation, we explore how hope shows up in our work, our communities, a...
In this episode, we’re honoured to be joined by a true trailblazer: Kerry Davis, the first Black woman to represent England at football. Kerry shares her incredible journey through the game, from her early days breaking barriers to representing her country on the international stage. With honesty and humility, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a Black woman in women's football, the progress made since then, and the work that’s still left to do. We talk about identity, representati...
In this episode, we have a powerful and much-needed conversation about menopause—what it is, what it isn’t, and the realities so many experience in silence. We’re joined by Dr. Elise Dallas, who brings her professional expertise to the discussion. She helps us unpack the physical, emotional, and social impact of menopause, while also challenging the stigma and misinformation that too often surround it. From hormonal changes and mental health to workplace support and personal relationships, D...
In this episode, we have a conversation about the complicated world of rules and inclusion—how structures meant to create order can sometimes exclude, and what it takes to build spaces where everyone feels included and as though they belong. Rules are meant to keep things fair, safe, and organised, and in many situations, they do just that. But who gets to make them, and who gets left out in the process? We explore the fine balance between structure and freedom, and why rethinking the way we...
In this episode, we have an important and long-overdue conversation about grief and loss—our relationship with them, the support systems that carry us, and how we learn to live alongside deep emotional pain. We’re joined by Imogen, who shares her personal journey navigating the loss of a loved one. She speaks honestly about how grief has shaped who she is, her evolving relationship with loss, and how the brilliant charity Eden’s Trust provided a safe and supportive space when she needed it m...
In this episode, we dive right into the Netflix series Adolescence—what it reveals about systemic issues in today’s world, the societal lessons it offers, and how it reflects the challenges of being a teenager. Adolescence is more than just a phase; it’s a critical period of self-discovery, identity formation, and navigating systemic pressures. But how has the experience of being a teenager evolved, and what does Adolescence teach us about the ways society shapes (and often fails) young peop...
In this episode, we delve into multidirectional solidarity—what it means, why it’s essential, and how it can drive real change, especially in the face of challenges to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. As Donald Trump and others seek to roll back these efforts, we explore why standing together across different minoritised groups is more important than ever. From the power of allyship to the necessity of intersectional activism, we discuss how communities can resist division...
In this episode, we sit down with Jahnine Davis to explore adultification—what it is, how it impacts children, specifically Black children, and why it’s a crucial issue we need to address. From being perceived as older than they are to facing harsher expectations and reduced protections, adultification bias shapes the way Black children experience education, social care, and the justice system. Jahnine brings her expertise and lived experience to unpack how adultification manifests, the long...
In this episode, we explore the crucial work of building a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture with Louise Oliver, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Lead at the National Childbirth Trust (NCT). From systemic barriers to meaningful progress, we unpack the challenges and opportunities in making maternity and parenting support more inclusive. Louise shares insights into the work already happening, the impact it’s making, and her hopes for the future. We discuss why equity and inclusi...
In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked yet pervasive issue of ageism—the bias that can lead to stereotyping and discrimination based on a person’s age. Whether it’s subtle remarks about being “too young” to lead or assumptions that older workers can’t keep up with technology, ageism affects people across the spectrum and shapes workplace dynamics in ways we may not even realise. We explore why this topic is so important, how ageism manifests in the workplace, and what we can all ...
HAPPY NEW YEAR, PEOPLE! In this episode, we are delighted to be joined by the brilliant Lisa Zaranyika. Lisa is a Social Worker, Educator, Anti-Racist activist, and currently the Director of Community and Culture at Young Minds. We delve into Lisa’s Anti-Racist activism within social work and beyond. She shares her experiences in grassroots organising, her involvement with the Anti-Racist Movement (A.R.M), and reflects on the personal toll this crucial work can take. Lisa also offers her ho...
In this episode, we delve into the nuances of feedback conversations and their vital role in personal and professional growth. Feedback has the potential to strengthen relationships, foster understanding, and drive positive change—when delivered and received with care. We explore how effective feedback can encourage reflection, whilst poorly handled feedback can create barriers and hinder progress. Curious about how to navigate these often challenging conversations with confidence and empathy...
🌟 WOW, WOW, and WOW! This is an episode you cannot miss. We had the incredible privilege of sitting down with Amy Butterworth, an Accessibility and Inclusion Consultant who is making waves in the world of workplace accessibility. Amy shares her inspiring journey, including her lived experiences with Long Covid, and provides invaluable insights on how we can all contribute to creating more inclusive and accessible environments for everyone. Want to learn more about Amy and her impactful work...
In this episode, we explore how language shapes our thinking and influences the contexts we live in. Words have the power to foster inclusion, build bridges, or erect barriers. We discuss how intentional, inclusive language can promote belonging and empower communities, while negative language can exclude, discriminate, and undermine the progression of anti-oppressive practices. By examining how words construct meaning and reflect societal values, we emphasise the importance of greater mindfu...
In this episode, we dive into the all-too-relatable experience of Imposter Syndrome—the fear that others will eventually uncover your perceived weaknesses and question your competence in the same way you do. This self-doubt often comes with a tendency to misattribute hard-won successes to external, random, or undeserved factors. We explore why this topic is so important, how imposter syndrome impacts us in the workplace, and what others can do to support those navigating their own struggles ...
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your voice is not really good it has noise
Great podcast. Always excited when a new episode is available. Content is really relevant to all walks of life, not just social work. Looking forward to hearing more!
Guys, this is such a good idea. It seems like it's going to be so interesting and useful to social workers and everyone who may come into contact with them at some point. Can't wait to hear more!