In this new seven-episode podcast series, we’ll explore critical issues impacting the mental health and wellbeing of children, young people, and families. Launched on 13 June, there'll be a new episode landing each week.
Through conversation and expert insights, we'll delve into topics such as peer support, neurodiversity and CAMHS, the role of schools, co-regulation in parenting, the transformative power of the arts, and the impact of race and microaggressions.
Whether you're a practitioner, working in mental health, or a parent or carer, join us as we share knowledge gained which aims to shift perspectives and inspire meaningful change in supporting the mental health of the next generation.
Episode one: The 'village'
In our opening episode, we’ll explore the concept of 'the village' and its crucial role in supporting mothers during the perinatal period. We'll delve into the impact of not having a support network, how it affects mental health, and how peer support can make a profound difference not only for parents but for their children as well.
One of the projects we discuss in our podcast is Small Talk. The Small Talk Framework has been co-designed, tested and now digitised with 7 project partners to support practitioners to deliver peer support to parents in the perinatal period (pregnancy and the early years). The resource tailors the information practitioners need to develop inclusive services for parents and has session plans to help open up conversations about mental health and wellbeing including on stigma, self-care and self-management. Check out the Small Talk Framework.
In Episode one we speak to Amma Birth Companions and the Young parents support based at Smithycroft Secondary School.
Episode two: Together to Thrive
In our second episode, 'Together to Thrive', we explore the complex and often misunderstood topic of neurodiversity and the challenges faced by families navigating long waiting times for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
This episode will explore an innovative task-sharing approach being pioneered in Dundee, called Together to Thrive, with insight from Dr Johnny Graham, a consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist in NHS Tayside, Jacqui Paton and Keren Hadden from NHS CAMHS in Dundee, children's mental health expert Laura Earnshaw and Louise, one of the parents who has received support through Together to Thrive.
Episode three: Arts & mental health
In this episode, we dive into the importance of play and creativity beyond the early years. Our society often associates play and creativity with young children, but what impact does play have as children grow older? How can engaging in the arts impact mental health and wellbeing?
To explore these questions, we've gathered a panel of experts from various organisations dedicated to supporting children and young people through the arts. Joining us today are Lou Brodie from Imaginate, Corah Ambrose from Teapot Trust, Eleni Daskalaki-Denman, a Family Support Worker at Playful Minds Dundee, and Kai Peacock from Rolled Up Productions.
Episode four: Co-regulation & parenting
In today's episode, we're going to explore the topic of parental mental health and co-regulation with insights from parents, organisations and charities MindMosaic Child and Family Therapy, and Dad's Rock and children's mental health expert Laura Earnshaw.
This is a crucial area that affects every family, yet it's one that's often overlooked or misunderstood. We'll be diving deep into the challenges parents face, the impact of stress on both parents and children, and most importantly, the strategies and support systems that can make a real difference.
Episode five: Schools
Presenter Tim Street explores what young people need to better support their mental health at home and in school.
You will hear the additional voices of Teacher Kerry Russell, librarian and parent Jane and student Natasha and ex-headteacher, and Head of Service for SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) Billy Burke.
Episode six: Race & microaggressions Part 1
In the first of a 2-part episode, presenter Ravideep Kaur explores the challenges faced by refugee, asylum seeker, and migrant families in accessing healthcare and raising children in a new culture.
In this episode, she focuses on the impact of racism and microaggressions on families accessing services.
You will hear the additional voices of Amma Birth Companions mothers and CEO Maree Aldam, Maryhill Integration Network parent Nyla and Dad Rock's father Regan.
Episode seven: Race & microaggressions Part 2
In the second of a 2-part episode, presenter Ravideep Kaur explores the challenges faced by refugee, asylum seeker, and migrant families in accessing healthcare and raising children in a new culture.
In this episode, she focuses on the challenges of language barriers and parenting in an unfamiliar culture
You will hear the additional voices of Amma Birth Companions mothers and CEO Maree Aldam, Maryhill Integration Network parent Nyla and Dad Rock's father Regan.