DISCOVER Voices | disAbility Cornwall & IoS

Domestic Violence in Dementia | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #30

In this episode, Anna Lempriere speaks with Dina Holder, Community Engagement Manager at the Women’s Centre, about domestic abuse and family violence - particularly as it affects older people and those with dementia. With honesty, warmth, and deep experience, Dina shares how abuse can go unrecognised, why older adults are often underserved, and what support is available. This conversation offers insights for anyone on the dementia pathway or concerned about someone they know.
⚠️ Please note: this episode discusses sensitive topics that may be triggering for some viewers.
Resources
- The Women's Centre Cornwall: https://www.womenscentrecornwall.org.uk/
- Safer Cornwall: https://safercornwall.co.uk/domestic-abuse-sexual-violence/
- First Light: https://www.firstlight.org.uk/
- Dementia and longstanding domestic abuse: There is a surprisingly limited amount of research on this topic although findings from Dr Lucy Knight and Professor Marianne Hester’s research highlights that the onset of dementia in the situations studied led to an escalation in the severity of the domestic abuse: http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/pdf/Knight%20Lucy.pdf
- Domestic abuse and the co-existence of dementia: https://dewischoice.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Dewis-Choice-Dementia-and-Domestic-Abuse-18.7.24-1-compressed.pdf
- The combination of dementia and domestic abuse is all too often overlooked: https://theconversation.com/the-combination-of-dementia-and-domestic-abuse-is-all-too-often-overlooked-139535
- Care Provider Response to Domestic Abuse and supporting people living with dementia and their carers: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5cea59cc8648df0001e6810d/t/61a0ab7cf2f8dd6d6dac33ee/1637919619007/domestic-abuse-and-dementia.pdf
- Knowsley’s Dementia and Domestic Abuse Toolkit https://knowsleysafeguardingadultsboard.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Domestic-Abuse-and-Dementia-.pdf
- Dementia and Domestic Abuse – Dewis Choice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6gD3SqVnhM
 
Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Positive Voices: A HIV Podcast | #1

Welcome to the very first episode of Positive Voices, part of the DISCOVER Voices network by disAbility Cornwall. Hosted by Max – the volunteer host for this series and former trustee of Kernow Positive Support. This podcast aims to break stigma, share real stories, and shine a light on what it means to live well with HIV today.
In this introductory episode, Max shares his own journey with HIV, reflects on decades of advocacy, and invites you to join the conversation. Whether you're living with HIV, supporting someone who is, or simply want to learn more, Positive Voices is here to offer insight, support, and community.
🗣 Topics include:Lived experience of HIVCombating stigma and misinformationSupport for families and carersAccessible education and advocacy in Cornwall and beyond
📩 Got questions or want to suggest a future episode topic? Leave a comment or reach out – your voice matters.
📢 Follow DISCOVER Voices for future episodes and more lived experience content.
#HIVAwareness #PositiveVoices #HIVAIDSEducation #DisabilityCornwall #StigmaFree #Podcast #HIVPodcast

Learning Disability Week | The Advocacy Fellows Podcast #15

In this powerful episode of the Advocacy Fellows Podcast, we mark Learning Disability Week by exploring the theme "Do You See Me?" - a celebration of the contributions, achievements, and individuality of people with learning disabilities.
 
The Advocacy Fellows take the mic to bust common myths and share real stories. They open up about being ignored or misunderstood, facing barriers to support and community, and the strength it takes to thrive despite these challenges. From hobbies and dreams to careers and life goals, they show the reality: people with learning disabilities lead rich, fulfilling lives.
 
Tune in to hear voices that deserve to be heard - and ask yourself:
Do you see me? Do you understand me? Will you include me?
 
#LearningDisabilityWeek #DoYouSeeMe #DisabilityVoices #LDWeek2025
 
- Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Lorenzo’s House Young Onset Dementia Support | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #29

In this episode, Anna Lempriere from the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network is joined by the inspiring Grania McKittrick, Outreach and Development Lead at Lorenzo’s House – a U.S.-based nonprofit offering support for families affected by young onset dementia. Together, they explore how Lorenzo’s House was born from lived experience and the urgent need to support children and families navigating the challenges of dementia at a younger age.
 
Grania shares how the charity helps build healing, connected communities while championing dementia justice. 👥 Whether you're a carer, a professional, or someone with lived experience, this conversation offers insight, empathy, and practical pathways to support.
🧠 Learn more about young onset dementia
🌍 Discover how international connections are helping people in Cornwall and beyond 💬 Hear about the powerful founding story of Lorenzo’s House
💛 Find out how to connect with services and support networks near you This series is created by the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly, to provide clear, supportive guidance for anyone affected by dementia.

SENDItForward | The Advocacy Fellows #14

For Learning Disability Week, the Advocacy Fellows are shining a light on special educational needs (SEND) and meeting the inspiring young ambassadors from SEND It Forward, a youth voice project within Action for Children Kernow Connect.
📚 With over 1.6 million pupils in England needing extra support and 400,000+ with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), we ask: are their voices being heard?
💬 Featuring: Olivia, Seren and Jack – sharing how they:
Amplify the voices of young people with SEND
Support change at a local level in Cornwall
Campaign for more inclusive and accessible communities
Engage with decision-makers through the SEND Board
Encourage others aged 5–25 to join or share feedback
🔍 For more info on SENDitForward, visit SENDitForward | Kernow Connect | Services | Action for Children
🎧 Subscribe to stay updated on youth advocacy, inclusion, and the power of lived experience.
#AdvocacyFellows #YouthVoice #LearningDisabilities #Cornwall #InclusionMatters
DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart.
We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, that includes captioning every video with closed captions. We apologise in advance for any slight grammatical errors with the captioning.
Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Life as a Carer: Managing Difficult Talks on Independence | Care to Speak #5

In this episode of Care to Speak, host Steve Horscroft sits down with Mandy May, a dedicated carer navigating the challenges of both professional and unpaid family care. Mandy shares her personal experiences caring for her mother, who has dementia and arthritis, as well as the journey of arranging support, accessing adult social care and ensuring her mum stays connected and engaged.
🧡 Topics covered:✔️ Recognising early signs of dementia✔️ The impact of social isolation during COVID-19✔️ Managing difficult conversations about independence✔️ Finding and working with self-employed carers✔️ The role of memory cafes and social activities✔️ Accessing direct payments and navigating adult social care
Mandy’s story highlights the realities of balancing family, work, and caregiving responsibilities while ensuring dignity and quality of life for loved ones.
🔗 Listen & SubscribeCatch Care to Speak on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon and other platforms.
💬 Join the ConversationAre you a carer? Share your experiences in the comments below.
#CareToSpeak #DisabilityCornwall #DementiaCare #UnpaidCarers #AdultSocialCare #podcast #carerspodcast
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DISCOVER Voices is a brand-new podcast network that discusses life through the lens of people living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. 
We welcome a variety of hosts all with their own podcast series, giving their own outlook and take on topics and discussions that are close to their heart. 
We try our very best to make these podcasts as accessible as possible, if you require captions to access our podcast, please view the podcast on our YouTube Channel where all of our videos have closed captions, simply search DISCOVER Voices on YouTube search bar. 
Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Digital Inclusion with CRCC | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #28

In this episode of the Dementia Together Toolkit podcast, Anna Lempriere speaks with Jane and Jay from the Cornwall Rural Community Charity (CRCC) about technology-enabled care and how digital support can improve life for people living with dementia and their carers.
Learn how CRCC’s Digital Together project – in partnership with Cornwall Council and others – is making technology more accessible across Cornwall. From free tablet loans and digital skills training to helpful devices like Alexa and virtual reality tools, this episode explores how simple tech can enhance independence, safety, and connection.
🧠 Topics include:Digital lending schemes through CRCC and Cornwall CouncilTech support and taster workshops in Memory CafesHelping carers set reminders and manage routinesAccessibility in rural areasUsing Alexa, tablets, and VR to support wellbeing
This series is created by the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network, part of disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly, to provide clear, supportive guidance for anyone affected by dementia.

What is Lasting Power of Attorney? | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #27

In this episode of the Dementia Together Toolkit series, we speak with Karen Malkin, Clinical Lead Manager for the Dementia Liaison Service in Cornwall. Karen provides expert advice on the importance of early planning for dementia care, particularly focusing on the crucial steps to take before a diagnosis progresses.
Karen explains how to navigate issues like mental capacity, and why it’s important to address them in the early stages of dementia. She also covers the legal considerations of setting up a lasting power of attorney and an advance care plan, ensuring that individuals living with dementia can have their wishes respected as their condition progresses.
With valuable tips on ensuring that both individuals and their families are prepared for the journey ahead, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to make informed decisions about care and support. Tune in to hear how proactive planning can make a world of difference in ensuring a person’s dignity, choices, and wellbeing are upheld throughout their dementia journey.
🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance.

Dementia Memory Assessment Process | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #26

In this episode, we’re joined by Allison O'Kelly, an advanced clinical practitioner with extensive experience in the Memory Assessment Service in Cornwall. Alison shares her journey into dementia care, discussing the evolution of the Memory Assessment Service and its crucial role in diagnosing and supporting those with dementia. With a background in clinical practice, Alison explains how the service has expanded over the years, offering a range of support options including assessments, diagnoses, and follow-up care for individuals living with dementia.
This podcast is relaxed, inclusive, and welcoming, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for reliable, supportive, and accessible information on dementia care. Whether you're a professional, a carer, or someone living with dementia, the Dementia Together Toolkit is here to provide expert advice, support, and hope for navigating the dementia pathway.
🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance.- 

Blue Badge Barriers | It's Time for Action | #NationalBlueBadgeDayOfAction 💙

🎧 Listen to the podcast now and hear how your stories are helping to challenge policy, shift attitudes, and push for accessible, inclusive parking across Cornwall.
A massive thank you to the 629 people who responded to our Blue Badge parking survey, especially the 250+ who shared detailed comments. Your voices have made one thing clear: the system is not working for many of us, and it's time for change. 
🔍 What you told us:44% faced delays or issues applying for or renewing their Blue Badge.63% couldn’t pay for parking due to inaccessible systems.80% avoid venues with poor disabled parking provision.75% believe businesses are missing out on the £140 million spending potential of Cornish Blue Badge holders, the power of the Purple Pound.
Your feedback has helped shape our special Blue Badge Day of Action podcast episode, featuring Cornwall Councillor Steven Webb and Steve Paget MBE. Together, we explore these issues and push for real action from those in power.
A thank you to Councillor Steven Webb for producing this podcast, please do check out his podcast 'Stillness in the Storms' on Spotify, Apple and YouTube. 
Let’s make sure disabled people can access our towns, services and communities, not be shut out by poor parking design.
#BlueBadgeDayOfAction #PurplePound #AccessibleCornwall #DisabilityCornwall #InclusionMatters #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #BlueBadgeParking