DISCOVER Voices | disAbility Cornwall & IoS

Digital Inclusion for Dementia Support | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #23

In this insightful episode of the Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast, host Anna Lempriere speaks with communications specialist Susie Inman about an exciting initiative to improve digital inclusion across Cornwall — particularly for older people, carers, and those living with dementia.
Susie shares how the Digital Inclusion Team at Cornwall Council is supporting community organisations to recruit and train “digital champions” — volunteers who receive free, accessible training to help others gain basic tech skills. From booking GP appointments and ordering groceries, to spotting scams and staying connected with loved ones, the programme empowers people to confidently navigate the digital world.
The conversation highlights how Memory Cafes are ideal places for introducing tech in a gentle, person-led way. Susie explains how even a short, 30-minute training session can open the door to loaning tablets, accessing free Wi-Fi, and enabling volunteers to help others develop essential skills.
With simple processes, no prior expertise needed, and a real opportunity to transform lives, this initiative has the power to increase independence and reduce isolation — all while promoting digital confidence and safety.
👉 Learn more or get involved: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/digitalchampion

Latest Research into Dementia | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #22

In this episode, Anna is joined by Dr Simon Vann Jones, Consultant Psychiatrist in Older People’s Mental Health and the NIHR Dementia Research Lead for the South West. Simon shares personal insight into what drew him to dementia care, discusses current treatments including Donepezil and Memantine, and offers an expert view on emerging research and clinical trials.
With a warm, relaxed tone and clear, accessible explanations, this series aims to empower you with knowledge, whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, caring for a loved one, or simply want to know more.
Tune in, learn something new, and share with those who might benefit. Your journey matters, and you’re not alone.
🌟 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.

Let's Talk Public Transport in Cornwall | The Advocacy Fellows #13

Welcome back to The Advocacy Fellows Podcast – where young adults with learning disabilities speak up, share stories and inspire change.
In this episode, we explore public transport in Cornwall and how a lack of access can seriously affect people living in rural communities. From missing bus services to long travel times and inaccessible routes, our Fellows share personal stories, insights and experiences, the good and the frustrating.
📊 Backed by research from Citizens Advice Cornwall, we talk about:
- The decline in bus services across the county- How poor public transport limits independence- Real experiences from people across Cornwall- What needs to change to make travel easier and fairer for everyone
🚉 You’ll hear honest opinions, from train journeys to dreams of visiting Wembley, and the barriers that stand in the way.

Mental Health, Labels & Lived Experience | Conversations with Dr Theo Blackmore #26 w/ Jerry Padfield

This episode of Discover Voices brings together Dr Theo Blackmore and Jerry Padfield for a deeply personal conversation about mental health, identity, and the evolving language we use to talk about lived experience.
 
From being sectioned under the Mental Health Act to co-producing research that challenges and reshapes services, Jerry shares his powerful journey and why some people now call themselves ‘service refusers’.
 
In partnership with Bath Spa University, this conversation is part of the Discover Voices podcast series -placing real voices and lived experience at the centre.
Dr Theo Blackmore is the Senior Research Fellow for the We Are The People project, with Bath Spa University.You can find out more here: www.bathspa.ac.uk/projects/we-are-the-people/Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. 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.

MS Awareness and the Merlin Centre | Conversations with Dr Theo Blackmore #25 w/ Tracey Phillips

In this episode of Discover Voices, Dr Theo Blackmore speaks with Tracey Phillips, a trustee of the Merlin Neuro Therapy Centre and a volunteer with the MS Society in South and West Cornwall.
 
Timed with MS Awareness Week, this conversation explores Tracey's personal journey, the critical role of the Merlin Centre in supporting people with neurological conditions, and the importance of therapies like oxygen and hydrotherapy.
 
From surviving the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic to becoming a social hub for users and volunteers, the Merlin Centre remains a vital lifeline for many across Cornwall. Learn more about the Centre's services, community impact, and how it continues to empower people through care, connection, and innovation.
Visit the Merlin site for more information: https://www.merlincentre.org.uk/

The Impact of Oliver McGowan’s Story on People with Learning Disabilities | The Advocacy Fellows #12

In this episode of The Advocacy Fellows Podcast, we explore the tragic yet powerful story of Oliver McGowan, an autistic young man with a learning disability whose avoidable death highlighted critical gaps in healthcare.
We discuss the importance of the Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training, designed to educate healthcare professionals on supporting individuals with autism and learning disabilities. The Fellows also share their personal experiences, both positive and negative, navigating hospitals and healthcare services in Cornwall.
Our heartfelt thoughts go out to Oliver McGowan’s family. His story has led to vital changes, including the introduction of mandatory training for healthcare staff on autism and learning disabilities.
Key topics include:🔹 The need for better staff training in autism and learning disabilities🔹 First-hand experiences of healthcare, from misdiagnoses to compassionate care🔹 How improved communication and accessibility can transform healthcare for all
A big thank you to everyone who took part in this episode and to Nick at KMF Radio for helping us bring these vital conversations to life.
Join us as we amplify the voices of young adults with learning disabilities and advocate for change.
🎧 Listen now and support our mission for better, more inclusive healthcare.
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Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search DISCOVER Voices on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. 
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.

Parenting, Advocacy & Overcoming Barriers: A Carer’s Story | Care to Speak #4

In this episode of the Care to Speak podcast, we sit down with Phil Dunston, a dedicated carer and advocate, to discuss his remarkable journey of raising and supporting a family with unique challenges. As a father of three adopted children - two with significant disabilities - Phil shares his experiences navigating the complex world of caregiving, the emotional highs and lows, and the systemic barriers that often make life more difficult than it needs to be.  
Phil reflects on the lessons he’s learned, the misconceptions surrounding disability and caregiving, and how his own background shaped his approach. He also sheds light on the unnecessary complications within the support system, from dealing with councils to accessing essential services. This conversation is an honest look at both the struggles and rewards of being a carer, offering valuable insights for anyone supporting a loved one or working within the sector.  
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Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search for the podcast title on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. 
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. Our first podcast host is Dr Theo Blackmore, the residential researcher at disAbility Cornwall, a Disabled Peoples’ Organisation based in Hayle, Cornwall.
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Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Living with Young Onset Dementia | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #21

Join Anna Lempriere, Wayfinder for the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network and disAbility Cornwall, as she interviews experts and people with lived experience to provide essential insights, advice, and support for carers and people living with dementia. In this episode, Anna welcomes Zoe Baxter, a valued member of the Young Onset Memory Café, a unique space for those diagnosed with dementia under 65. Together, they explore the challenges, experiences, and support available for individuals and families navigating young-onset dementia.
 
✨ This series is designed to be relaxed, inclusive, and welcoming—so sit back, listen in, and share with your friends.
📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest episodes!
Contact us via email at cmcn@disabilitycornwall.org.uk to find out more about the Young Onset Dementia Group
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Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search for the podcast title on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music.
 
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. Our first podcast host is Dr Theo Blackmore, the residential researcher at disAbility Cornwall, a Disabled Peoples’ Organisation based in Hayle, Cornwall.
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Discover Voices (c) 2024, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Self-advocacy and Disability Rights | Conversations with Dr Theo Blackmore #24 w/ Christopher Jordan

For our latest podcast, we have decided to upload an archived interview with the late Mr Christopher Jordan, known to us all as Chris. Chris was a very busy and active member of the disability community including Treasurer for disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly and Cornwall People First, and a town Councillor for Tuckingmill Council. 
After his recent passing, we share this interview with our host Theo in his memory. He will be very much missed. ❤️
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Please consider subscribing to our YouTube Channel! And if you want the audio-only version, please search for the podcast title on all major audio platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts & Amazon Music. 
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. Our first podcast host is Dr Theo Blackmore, the residential researcher at disAbility Cornwall, a Disabled Peoples’ Organisation based in Hayle, Cornwall.
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Discover Voices (c) 2025, a production by registered charity, disAbility Cornwall & Isles of Scilly.

Distress with Dementia | Dementia Toolkit Series | Cornwall Memory Cafe Podcast #20

Join Anna Lempriere, Host for the Cornwall Memory Cafe Network and disAbility Cornwall, as she interviews experts and those with lived experience to provide essential insights, advice, and support for carers and people living with dementia.
In this episode, Anna speaks with Dr. Vicky Brown, a psychiatrist specializing in later life, about distress in dementia—what it means, why it happens, and how to navigate its challenges. From memory loss to changes in perception and behavior, this conversation sheds light on the realities of dementia and offers valuable guidance for both carers and those diagnosed.
🔹 Topics covered:✔️ Understanding distress in dementia✔️ The impact of memory loss and perception changes✔️ Why terms like “challenging behavior” can feel judgmental✔️ How caregivers can manage emotional and practical challenges
✨ This series is designed to be relaxed, inclusive, and welcoming—so sit back, listen in, and share with your friends.