"Corporate parenting" is a phrase we hear often in children's social care, but what does it really mean in practice? Does it provide real solutions, or is it just another buzzword in the sector? In this episode of Conversations That Care, Luke Rodgers and Karylle Phillips take a deep dive into the heart of corporate parenting—its principles, challenges, and potential to transform the lives of children and families.

Here’s what you’ll uncover:

1. The Origins of Corporate Parenting
   • Why was this term introduced, and how does it aim to shift the culture within children's services?
   • The balance between "corporate" and "parenting"—is the terminology part of the problem?
2. Real-World Challenges
   • How do frontline workers, local authorities, and policymakers interpret and implement corporate parenting principles?
   • The disconnect between central government guidance and local practice.
3. Reframing Corporate Parenting
   • Why "enhancing family life" should be at the core of corporate parenting.
   • Practical, actionable ways councils and communities can support children and foster families, from subsidized transport to building stronger relationships with local businesses.
4. Critical Reflections
   • Are the principles too vague? What’s missing in the guidance?
   • How does this framework truly address the diverse needs of children, families, and communities?
5. A Call to Action
   • What can professionals, leaders, and the wider community do to bridge the gap between intention and impact?
   • Luke and Carol share their key takeaways: simple, powerful questions like “How can I enhance family life?” to guide every decision and action.

Why Listen?
Whether you're a social worker, local authority leader, educator, or someone passionate about improving outcomes for care-experienced young people, this episode challenges conventional thinking and encourages meaningful conversations.

🎧 Listen now to discover what corporate parenting can—and should—be.

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In this episode of Conversations that Care, hosts Luke Rodgers and Karyell Phillips dive into the challenges and realities of leaving care.

They unpack the “cliff edge” experience for young people transitioning out of the care system, discussing the emotional and practical struggles that often come with this pivotal moment. From the sudden loss of support systems to the overwhelming expectations of independence, Luke and Karyell explore how we can better equip care leavers for the future.

Tune in for a deep conversation on the need for innovation and support in leaving care services, and hear about personal stories and potential solutions that could make a difference.

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In this episode, Luke and Karylle delve into the complex and often overlooked role of social workers. They discuss the impact of social workers on the lives of children in care, exploring both the positive and negative experiences.

From personal anecdotes to broader systemic issues, Luke and Karylle unpack the challenges and rewards of a career in social work. They discuss the importance of listening to young people, the impact of loss on social workers, and the potential for long-lasting relationships between social workers and the children they support.

This episode offers a unique perspective on social work, highlighting the human element behind the profession and the profound impact it can have on individuals and communities.

Listen now and please share your comments with us.

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In this months episode, hosts Luke Rodgers and Karylle Phillips look at the complexities of child placements within the social care system. With their combined experience as care leavers and professionals, they explore the ongoing debate surrounding local authorities, independent providers, and the quality of care offered.

Luke and Karylle share personal stories and insights, challenging listeners to consider the pros and cons of different placement options. They discuss the importance of quality care, the role of private fostering agencies, and the need for innovation within the sector.

Whether you're a social worker, foster carer, or simply interested in children's social care, this episode offers a nuanced perspective on a critical issue facing the children's care sector.

Listen now to discover:

• The challenges and benefits of local authority and independent placements
• The impact of unregulated placements on vulnerable young people
• Strategies for improving the quality of care in the social care system

Don't miss this incredible conversation on' Conversations That Care.'

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In this episode of Conversations That Care, Luke and Karylle delve into the intricate world of young people navigating the complexities of school and social care. With Karylle's unique perspective as a care-experienced social worker, teacher, and aspiring lawyer, listeners gain invaluable insights into the challenges faced by these vulnerable individuals.

From the impact of COVID-19 on education to the delicate balance between child-focused systems and the demands on social workers, this episode sparks thought-provoking discussions. Luke and Karylle explore the importance of collaboration between schools and social care, the role of foster carers, and the need for a holistic approach to behaviour management.

Whether you're a professional working in education, social care, or youth work, or simply someone passionate about child welfare, this episode offers a fresh perspective and practical insights into improving the lives of young people in care.

Tune in to discover:

• The challenges faced by young people balancing school and social care
• The importance of collaboration between schools and social care professionals
• The role of foster carers in supporting young people
• The need for a nuanced approach to behaviour management

Don't miss this essential conversation about creating a better future for our young people.

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Relationships, relationships, relationships, this is something we hear echo the metaphorical corridors of our sector.

We talk about the power of relationships and the transformative impact they can have for young people. We advocate for permeant relationships to be available for care experienced people, and we even formalise it with phrases like ‘relationship focussed practice’.

It’s clear we believe in revolution through relationships – so it only made sense that Karylle and Luke got together and spoke about it.

Tune into this month’s podcast where we talk about our relationship, the relationships we had with adults growing up and the impact that people have had on our lives.

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If you’ve read any of Luke's blogs, you will know that he is unsure about making care experience a protected characteristic.

This view is shared by many, and people have asked him to share his perspective since the campaign began because they are unsure too. The main reasons for concern include the lack of evidence to suggest this will have an impact, insufficient consultation with care-experienced people about making it a protected characteristic (that equates to the volume of people this will impact), and uncertainty about the next steps once it’s established as a protected characteristic.

Karylle and Luke got together to discuss this topic openly and honestly on our podcast, and we hope more people will come forward and share their concerns publicly too.

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Speakers:
Luke Rodgers: Founder of The Care Leaders, lived experience leader and former fellow at the University of Oxford.

Karylle Phillips: Qualified teacher, social worker, and trauma-informed practitioner.

Podcast Overview:
In this engaging episode, Luke Rodgers and Karylle Phillips delve into the nuances of sharing lived experiences in the social care sector. They discuss their transition from sharing personal stories to becoming key figures in advocating for systemic change.

Highlights of the Episode:

1. Personal Journeys:

Luke and Karylle recount their beginnings in sharing their personal stories to raise awareness and drive change. They discuss how their roles evolved from storytellers to consultants and trainers, highlighting the importance of authenticity and ethical considerations in sharing personal narratives.

2. Influence of Lived Experiences:

The discussion covers how sharing lived experiences can impact policy and practice within the social care system. They emphasise the need for engaging lived experience leaders in meaningful ways beyond just storytelling.

3. Ethical Considerations and Challenges:

They address the ethical dilemmas of sharing personal trauma and the risk of re-traumatization. The conversation touches on the power dynamics involved in sharing stories and the necessity of support systems for lived experience leaders.

4. Transition and Skill Development:

Luke and Karylle talk about moving from sharing personal stories to acquiring skills and knowledge that drive systemic change. They highlight the importance of training and mentorship for lived experience leaders to enhance their impact.

5. Future Integration:

The episode concludes with insights on integrating lived experiences more effectively into the social care sector. Luke and Karylle advocate for investing in lived experience leaders and providing them with the tools and support needed to translate their insights into actionable change.

Tune In:

Listeners are encouraged to join this thought-provoking conversation on the power and ethics of sharing lived experiences. This episode offers valuable insights for practitioners, policy-makers, and anyone connected to the care system.

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