Explore every episode of the podcast Messy Social Work
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rich and Tim reflect on their personal failures, explore why failure is inevitable, & share what they’ve learned from it. | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:48:59 | |
In this episode, Rich and Tim: How to Succeed at Failing, we reflect on the times we’ve got it wrong — professionally and personally — and explore why failure isn’t just inevitable, but essential. From missteps to lessons learned, we talk about how embracing failure can lead to growth, insight, and even unexpected success. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim interview Prof Rick Barth on the top misconceptions in child protection | 19 Sep 2025 | 01:15:05 | |
In this thoughtful and research-informed conversation, Rich and Tim speak with Professor Rick Barth about his influential article, “Ten Common Child Welfare Misconceptions.” The episode explores how widely held beliefs about child protection and foster care often diverge from evidence and practice realities. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak to Rasheed Pendry OBE (Director at Wandsworth) on systemic practice and leadership | 18 Jul 2025 | 01:00:56 | |
In this conversation, Rasheed Nicholas John Pendry shares his journey into social work, highlighting the transformative impact of systemic ideas and personal experiences on his professional practice. He discusses the importance of relationships in social work, the need for cultural change within organisations, and innovative practices in family therapy. Rashid also reflects on the complexities of adoption and the significance of kinship care, emphasising the role of curiosity and emotional availability in effective social work practice. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Rasheed's Journey into Social Work 14:22 The Impact of Systemic Ideas 18:16 Critique of Social Work Training 21:36 Personal Transformation through Systemic Ideas 25:36 Navigating Adoption and Its Long-term Effects 28:54 Understanding Relationships and Attachment 32:42 Systemic Interventions in Practice 34:47 Navigating Identities and Relationships 39:18 Transforming Institutions with Systemic Ideas 47:28 Reimagining Adoption Practices 49:57 Essential Systemic Ideas for Social Workers 53:09 Understanding Risk in Social Work 54:51 The Role of Lived Experience in Practice 57:03 Introduction to Relational Activism 58:31 The Poem of Compassion Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim discuss the 5 reasons why chronologies essential for effective social work practice | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:49:23 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak to Clarissa Stevens (Development Worker for Peer Power) on how to work with teenagers and gangs | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:49:55 | |
In this episode of "Messy Social Work," hosts Rich Devine and Tim Fisher engage in a profound conversation with Clarissa Stevens, a seasoned youth worker and relational activist. Clarissa shares her journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a pivotal figure in youth advocacy. She delves into the emotional landscape of teenagers, offering insights into how professionals can connect with young people. Clarissa's story is one of resilience and transformation, highlighting the importance of building trust and providing genuine support to empower the next generation. Tune in to discover valuable lessons for social workers and anyone passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people. Clarissa Stevens: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarissa-s-4b7438132/ Peer Power Youth: https://www.peerpower.org.uk/ Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim interview Kevin Campbell on Family Finding; an innovative method for finding family, love and connection | 27 Jun 2025 | 01:19:32 | |
Other key takeaways from Kevin:
Kevin Campbell; https://www.familyfinding.org/ Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim introduce 'Headlines' with CC Editor Mithran Samuel and Review 'Radical Help' by Hilary Cottam | 23 Jun 2025 | 01:07:30 | |
| Rich and Tim interview Prof Jill Derrick on the impossible imperative; navigating competing principles in child protection | 12 Jun 2025 | 01:05:19 | |
We’re joined by the brilliant Professor Jill Derrick from the University of California, Berkeley, for a compelling and thought-provoking conversation on the complexities of child protection practice. From the competing tensions social workers navigate to the moral distress they often face, Jill offers deep insight into the impossible decisions that define the field. We examine the moral implications behind these choices and the challenging task of evaluating different forms of alternative care. Jill was a generous, articulate, and deeply thoughtful guest. While we only scratched the surface—touching on just one of her books—we’re left inspired by her extensive body of research and writing. Buckle in for a wide-ranging discussion that will leave you reflecting long after the episode ends. Jill Berrick: https://socialwelfare.berkeley.edu/people/jill-duerr-berrick Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak to Senior Social Worker, Duane Phillips about being mixed heritage, male social worker, working with fathers and much more | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:46:35 | |
In this episode with speak with Duane Phillips, Senior Social Worker at Coventry City Council. We talk about:
We hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did. Connect with Duane: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duane-phillips-0656b7180/?originalSubdomain=uk Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak to Terri-Anne (Project Worker and Care Experienced) about requesting and reading her files | 29 May 2025 | 01:24:01 | |
This week, we have our first-ever return guest, Terri Anne, who shares the important work of the Care Leavers Association and delves into her exploration of the emotional rollercoaster of retrieving and reading her care files. Tim interviews care leaver Liana Karim and Jo about their National Voice Project, and some stark findings from a massive study involving care-experienced adults. Liana reads out a spectacular poem that Tim first heard at the inaugural One Voice Summit in London last month. Her powerful message to children in care, care leavers and policymakers – and her heartfelt thanks to social workers – is other worldly and we were so grateful for her coming on to share it with us. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| What 10 years in child protection taught me about people, pain and purpose | 23 May 2025 | 00:57:08 | |
In this episode, Rich and Tim and live and in person in Rich's living - they unpack 10 lessons from Rich's experience in child protection, with Tim surprising Rich with a Paxman style interview, quizzing and questioning his central ideas. Do they withstand the scrutiny, tune in to find out. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Professor Clive Diaz on psychoanalytical ideas in contemporary social work | 16 May 2025 | 01:05:25 | |
In this episode, we speak to Professor Clive Diaz, a music producer who has also worked as a social worker, principal social worker, researcher, professor, and psychoanalytical psychotherapist. We discuss the relevance of psychoanalytical ideas in modern social work, such as transference, countertransference, the unconscious, and much more. Can these ideas really help us as social workers, or should we avoid overanalysing and offer practical help? We also ask Clive the top 10 quick-fire questions about his morning routine, the meaning of life, and whether, if in need, he would call a therapist or social worker. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak to Prof. Harry Ferguson: Feeling, moving & sensing through the history of child protection social work | 12 Sep 2025 | 01:32:30 | |
In this episode, Rich and Tim sit down with Professor Harry Ferguson—one of the most influential thinkers in contemporary social work. Together, they explore the evolution of the profession, the emotional and embodied nature of frontline practice, and what we’ve learned from decades of child death enquiries. Harry reflects on the importance of relationships, the complexity of risk, and why social work must be both intellectually rigorous and deeply human. A must-listen for anyone interested in the heart, history, and future of social work. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| George Fielding BEM on living with cerebral palsy and how we can put the social back into social care | 09 May 2025 | 01:06:23 | |
This week, we speak with George Fielding, BEM, a disability rights activist and social care leader. He was the first child in his area to go to a mainstream school in a wheelchair. Since then, he’s worked with charities like Whizz-Kidz, mentored over 100 disabled people, and received an MBE. George also set up two care organisations that focus on dignity, choice, and helping people live the lives they want. He’s recently appeared on news channels to discuss current disability issues and changes to disability legislation. This week, he’s been doing wheelies in a prison—and we ask him all about it. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim take on the top three myths in child protection work | 02 May 2025 | 00:39:26 | |
In this episode of Messy Social Work, Tim Fisher and Rich Devine explore the complexities of child protection social work. They discuss the myths surrounding the profession, the importance of relationships, and the challenges social workers face in balancing their roles. Rich shares insights from his book, addressing misconceptions about the ability of social workers to keep children safe and happy, and emphasizes the significance of understanding the process over the outcome in social work. The conversation highlights the emotional and ethical dimensions of the profession, encouraging a deeper reflection on the nature of social work and its impact on families. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim introduce 'Messy Social Work' and discuss Rich's blog on reasons for not being a manager | 25 Apr 2025 | 00:40:02 | |
In this episode of the newly named podcast, Rich and Tim discuss Rich's blog; 15 Years in Social Work – And 4 Reasons I am Still Not a Manager. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Professor Anna Gupta (Royal Holloway, University of London) on Poverty and intersectionality | 18 Apr 2025 | 00:51:24 | |
In this episode, we interview Professor Anna Gupta about her early experiences as a social worker, her transition into academia, and her important work on poverty and intersectionality in the context of child protection. We explore: - The social model - intersectionality - The role of poverty in child abuse and neglect - The capabilities approach Here is the link to the powerful Archie Roach song ‘They took the children away’ that Anna discussed during the podcast. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IL_DBNkkcSE&list=RDIL_DBNkkcSE&start_radio=1&rv=IL_DBNkkcSE Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim on how to find meaning in life | 11 Apr 2025 | 00:44:17 | |
In this episode of the Relational Activism in Social Work podcast, asides Tim's nice hair and the clay.... Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Jamie Spencer (London Borough of Camden) on Data, Community and Connection | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:42:37 | |
In this episode, we interview Jamie Spencer, who holds the position of 'Head of Insight, Quality, Financial Services, and Digital for Camden Adult Social Care'. However, don't let that job title deter you from listening, as Jamie has had a fascinating journey through social care from support worker to senior leader and has been at the forefront of driving change at Camden Council. We had some slight technical issues, so please forgive our post editing and stitching together of this conversation. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Professor Andrew Turnell (Australia) on Safety and belonging in child protection | 28 Mar 2025 | 01:13:23 | |
In this episode, we speak to Professor Andrew Turnell, co-creator of Signs of Safety. In January 2023, he received the Member of the Order of Australia award for his sustained and innovative contributions to child protection social work. Andrew is internationally renowned for his ground-breaking work in developing safety-organized, solution-focused, and systemic approaches to statutory child protection practice and organisation. He has published extensively on the Signs of Safety, the Resolutions approach to ‘denied’ child abuse, and applying solution-focused practice to complex cases of torture, abuse, and violence. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Jo Sutton (ISW and Director of Purple Elephant in the Room) on Assessment and how to change the system | 21 Mar 2025 | 00:52:35 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich shares his learning from a 5 day silent meditation retreat (Bonus episode) | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:25:41 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich, Tim and Parent Activist Kar-Man discuss how to heal from childhood trauma | 14 Mar 2025 | 00:44:39 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim speak with parent activist Lee Crouch about his experience of losing his children & the journey toward reunification | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:55:01 | |
Rich and Tim speak to Lee Crouch, a parent activist, about losing his children, the long road to recovery, and eventual reunification. Together, they explore how parents, social workers, and foster carers can collaborate more compassionately. Rich and Tim also reflect on their own experiences of shame — how it’s shaped their work and personal lives — and what it means for practice and healing. Connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-crouch-257ab2248/ Check out the hopeful disruptors event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/reshaping-the-landscape-of-childrens-social-work-tickets-1374435115429?aff=oddtdtcreator Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim discuss Child Protection vs. Family Support | 07 Mar 2025 | 00:52:17 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Martin Hampton (Adult social worker, Camden) on how to see the person not the problem | 28 Feb 2025 | 00:56:46 | |
Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim on relationships in social work and 'Spongy boundaries' | 21 Feb 2025 | 00:49:34 | |
Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim answer, 'What is Relational Activism' | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:39:50 | |
Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Lee Weston, Care experienced and prison reform advocate on Care, Prison and Transformation | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:50:08 | |
Opening Discussion: Teaching & Activism Conversation with Lee: Care Experience, Prison, and Activism Lee’s Background:
Lee talks about:
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:
Links: Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Charlotte Spires (Assessment social worker from BANES) on how to navigate conflict in social work | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:45:24 | |
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/ | |||
| Ian Thomas, Tedx Speaker, Care Experienced Social Worker on addiction | 24 Jan 2025 | 00:53:33 | |
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. 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. 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/ | |||
| Vicki Shevlin from Social Work Sorted on Supporting newly qualified social workers | 17 Jan 2025 | 00:54:01 | |
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: | |||
| Rich and Tim on the courage to be disliked | 20 Dec 2024 | 01:00:44 | |
Links: | |||
| Becca Carr Hopkins (ISW and attachment expert) on attachment and the use of self in social work | 13 Dec 2024 | 01:01:22 | |
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
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| Rich and Tim; 'Headlines with Mithran' (CC editor) and personal reflections on parenting | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:41:07 | |
Social Work England fee rise and increase in fitness to practise case numbers Improving performance in children’s services – according to Ofsted | |||
| Rich and Tim on how to create organisational and systemic change in social work | 06 Dec 2024 | 00:59:57 | |
Links: | |||
| Rich, Tim and Lee Crouch (parent with lived experience) on how to assess a parents capacity to change | 29 Nov 2024 | 01:06:33 | |
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. • 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: | |||
| Rich and Tim on the why, what and how of Family Group Conferences | 22 Nov 2024 | 00:53:10 | |
Tim's article: | |||
| Renata (Newly Qualified Social Work in Child Protection, East Sussex) on small acts that make a big difference as a social worker | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:49:15 | |
Tim Fisher and Rich Devine kick off with reflections on culture and connection, inspired by recent experiences, including Rich’s first trip to the theatre to watch Les Misérables. They discuss the profound impact of stories and how creative expressions like theatre offer fresh perspectives on justice, empathy, and the challenges of human connection. The discussion also touches on the importance of self-care, empathy, and resilience. Inspired by Vikki Reynolds’ ideas on solidarity teams, Tim and Rich emphasise the need for supportive relationships to sustain social workers in their roles. This week’s episode encourages listeners to celebrate the small acts of kindness that make a big difference and reminds us that in social work, sometimes “to love is to act.” | |||
| Rich and Tim on ideas for social workers who feel ‘stuck’ or overwhelmed | 08 Nov 2024 | 00:48:39 | |
In this week’s episode of the Relational Activism and Social Work Podcast, Tim Fisher and Rich Devine dive into strategies for social workers when feeling “stuck” in cases, especially in longstanding family dynamics where change can be elusive. Rich introduces a framework for recognizing situational and psychological denial in families, exploring the defensive mechanisms that arise in challenging times and how social workers can respond with empathy and clarity. They also discuss the balance between addressing root issues directly and strengthening a family’s support network around the child, highlighting how meaningful change can occur from various angles. The episode further delves into actionable techniques, like clarifying expectations and outcomes with families and understanding critical causes of both danger and change to avoid overwhelming interventions. Drawing from practice wisdom and Andrew Turnell’s academic insights, they explore the importance of “on the ground” experience as opposed to only theoretical knowledge, raising thoughtful questions on the role of frontline voices in social work discourse. With ideas that encourage both reflection and practical application, this episode is rich in insights for social work practitioners seeking grounded approaches to their daily challenges. | |||
| Care Experienced Activist, Terri-Anne Hamer on growing up in care, shame and healing | 31 Oct 2024 | 00:48:40 | |
In this episode of Relational Activism in Social Work, hosts Tim Fisher and Rich Devine are joined by Terri-Anne Hamer, a care-experienced activist, who shares her powerful journey of overcoming intergenerational challenges and finding her voice within the care community. Terri-Anne reflects on her unique path, discussing her experiences as a third-generation care-experienced individual, her role as a kinship carer for her brother, and the emotional process of understanding her identity. She highlights the transformative power of storytelling for care leavers and discusses her work with the Care Leavers Association, particularly its commitment to connecting care leavers of all ages through initiatives like Care Leavers Connected and a new digital inclusion data bank. Tim and Rich explore the impact of trauma and shame, with Rich sharing his own journey around self-worth and validation. Together, they consider how understanding one’s story can reshape identity positively. Terri-Anne emphasises the importance of systems that support care leavers beyond the age of 25 and underscores how resilience, connection, and community support empower individuals to move forward. The episode closes with Tim reading an inspiring poem on identity and potential, followed by Rich’s “Eckhart Tolle roulette” reading, which encourages listeners to look beyond worldly achievements and find peace in understanding the essence of who they are. This episode blends humour and vulnerability, showcasing the resilience of care-experienced individuals and the meaningful impact of relational activism in social work. You can find Terri Anne on LinkedIn and Twitter: | |||
| Rich and Tim on top tips for direct Work with children and insights from Maya Angelou | 25 Oct 2024 | 00:44:46 | |
In this episode, Rich kicks things off by admitting his secret fuel: a double-double coffee (that's double strength, double shot!)—the only thing that kept him going through late nights in child protection. He then dives into his approach to direct work with children, sharing insights that go beyond caffeine-fuelled energy. We’re also treated to a voice note from social worker and TEDx speaker, Ian Thomas, who blends personal experience, professional wisdom, academic insight, and a dash of spiritual clarity in a way only he can. And, in honour of Black History Month, Tim reflects on the timeless teachings of Maya Angelou, adding depth and heart to the discussion. | |||
| Rich and Tim on how to write analysis in assessments | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:54:38 | |
In this episode, Rich and Tim explore the practicalities of analysis. Rich draws on his wealth of experiences and deep dives into analysis. Tim showcases his podcasting skills with an expertly timed musical interlude, which allows Tim and Rich to transition smoothly to talk about the Relational Activism Manifesto. Finally, we say goodbye before concluding with an Eckart Tolle quote—no, wait, we then say goodbye again! | |||
| Toni Mayo (Team Manager of Family Placement Team, BANES) on how to support Kinship Carers; What social workers need to know | 11 Oct 2024 | 00:50:05 | |
In this episode we speak with Team Manager of a Family Placement Team, Toni Mayo. She talked about: | |||
| Parent and Relational Activist, Kar-Man shares her lived experience of social work involvement | 04 Oct 2024 | 01:03:58 | |
In this episode, we speak to the brilliant and wonderful, Kar-Man. She generously and articulately shares her story and experience of social workers engaging with her. | |||
| Rich and Tim on how writing sharpens thinking, strengthens practice and opens doors | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:46:46 | |
In this conversation, Rich and Tim explore how writing isn’t just for blogs or books—it’s a powerful tool for social workers to think more clearly, practice more effectively, and create new opportunities. Drawing on their own experiences, they discuss how the simple act of putting words on a page sharpens reflection, deepens analysis, and helps communicate ideas with confidence. Whether you’re looking to improve your day-to-day practice, strengthen your professional voice, or even open unexpected doors, this episode makes the case for why every social worker should write. Relational Activism: https://www.relationalactivism.com/ | |||
| Rich and Tim on storytelling in social work and parental engagement | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:44:15 | |
This week Tim Fisher and Rich Devine explore the role of story in social work and how we define parental engagement. | |||
| An interview with social worker and author, Rhian Taylor (Ep.22) | 20 Apr 2023 | 01:01:10 | |
The link for Rhian Taylor's book is here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fosterboy-Rhian-Taylor/dp/183816202X https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/Fosterboy-by-Rhian-Taylor/9781838162023 The Gaps website article discussed is here - https://gaps.org.uk/how-to-make-a-social-worker-reflections-on-social-work-education/ E-mail for Rhian: Rhian.c.taylor@outlook.com BASW Child Protection Master Class Series: https://www.basw.co.uk/basw-child-protection-masterclass-series Any questions please contact me on richdevinesocialwork@gmail.com Follow my blog, where you can be sent fortnightly blogs on topics covered on this podcast: https://richarddevinesocialwork.com/about/ If you enjoyed this episode, please share with your friends, and leave a review - positive, or negative, all feedback welcome. | |||
| Typologies of domestic abuse (Ep.21) | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:37:08 | |
BASW Child Protection Master Class Series: | |||
| An interview with Rob Tucker: Effective Communication Skills with children (EP.20) | 24 Mar 2023 | 00:56:56 | |
This week I interview Rob Tucker, Director and Independent Social Work Consultant at RGT Training and Consultancy Ltd. | |||