This Is The North

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this deeply moving episode, Alison sits down with Charlie Beswick, a passionate advocate for parent carers and the author of Our Altered Life. Charlie opens up about her emotional journey raising her twin boys, particularly Harry, who was born with Goldenhar syndrome and later diagnosed with autism. The conversation dives into the complexities of parenting a child with special needs, the impact on family dynamics, and the societal judgments they often face. Charlie also shares her professional evolution from teaching to advocacy, focusing on educating employers about the unique skills and needs of parent carers. This episode offers powerful insights into the emotional and practical realities of raising a child with special needs, highlighting resilience, community support, and enduring hope.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to This Is The North Podcast00:32 Meet Charlie Beswick: Advocate and Author01:35 From Pregnancy to Diagnosis: Charlie's Journey02:46 Navigating Emotional Struggles and Family Dynamics05:22 The Highs and Lows of Parenting a Child with Special Needs12:57 Confronting Public Perception and Advancing Advocacy18:55 Charlie's Professional Transition and Advocacy Work23:16 Building Support Systems and Embracing Personal Growth33:22 Advice for Carers and Final ReflectionsReflecting on this conversation, it's evident that Charlie’s strength and resilience are not only inspiring but also a powerful call to action. Her story shines a light on the unseen challenges faced by parent carers, urging us all to rethink how society supports and values these remarkable families. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of empathy and the urgent need for systemic change to build a world where every individual, regardless of circumstance, can flourish. Charlie's journey through grief and anger, challenges and triumphs, loss and acceptance, ultimately leads to a place of profound love for the life she shares with her two beautiful children—children she wouldn’t change for the world.Enjoyed the conversation? Subscribe now to join us in empowering our communities and shaping a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Charlie Beswick (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast is proudly produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to driving societal change through the power of shared knowledge.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison joins a panel discussion with Steve Beharall, CEO of the Newcastle United Foundation, and Dean Titterton, CEO of YMCA North Tyneside, to address the recent rioting triggered by the tragic killing of three young girls in Southport. Guest host Neil Gow, Strategy and Research Manager at Citizens Advice Gateshead, guides us through a panel discussion focused on the profound impact of the recent UK riots on organisations, employees, and communities, emphasising the importance of safety, solidarity, and resilience. They share their efforts in supporting affected individuals and adapting services, while also focusing on combating misinformation and fostering community cohesion. Their conversation underscores the need for a united response to combat Islamophobia, racism, and societal disconnection, advocating for collective action and the role of the charitable sector in inspiring positive change.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Panel Introduction00:46 Impact of Riots on Organisations02:03 Safety Measures and Community Response03:53 Long-term Effects and Community Trauma04:49 Addressing Misinformation and Social Media06:40 Community Solidarity and Positive Actions09:28 Future Steps and Collaboration24:10 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionReflecting on this powerful discussion, it's clear that the path to a more equitable society isn't paved with grand gestures but with consistent, courageous action. The panel's insights remind us that real change begins at the community level—where empathy meets strategy, and where solidarity becomes our strongest tool against division. Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Neil Gow (Host)Alison Dunn (Guest)Steve Beharall (Guest)Dean Titterton (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison sits down with Fatima Whitbread, a celebrated Olympian, world champion, MBE recipient, and tireless advocate for children in the care system. Fatima's story is a powerful journey from a challenging childhood in care to becoming a world-renowned athlete. She discusses her ongoing campaign to reform the care system and her upcoming summit aimed at driving systemic change. This conversation sheds light on the critical issues faced by children in care and underscores the necessity of creating supportive and nurturing environments.Timestamp:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:31 Meet Fatima Whitbread: Olympian and Advocate01:32 Everest Base Camp Experience02:25 Campaigning for Children in Care03:31 Fatima's Early Life in the Care System04:20 Challenges in the Care System10:30 The Importance of Role Models13:33 Programs for Youth Development16:04 The Broken Care System26:23 Empowering Young People30:36 The Need for Foster Carers35:46 Fatima's Reflections and Values38:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis is an unforgettable episode featuring one of life’s true champions, who triumphed against unimaginable hardships to rise as a beacon of hope, grit, and resilience. Fatima’s journey from an abandoned child to an Olympic champion and campaigner is not just inspiring; it’s a call to action for all of us to contribute to a fairer, more caring society.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Fatima Whitbread (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.If you'd like to find out more about Fatima's UK Campaign please visit https://www.fatimascampaign.com/about-fatima/

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison speaks with Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health for Gateshead and Newcastle, and Dr. Julie Scanlon, an expert in women's inclusion. Together, they delve into the persisting gender inequalities in health, employment, and social roles. The conversation uncovers the impact of recent socio-economic challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, austerity, and the cost-of-living crisis on women, the intersectionality of gender with other identity aspects, and highlights the urgent need for policy and cultural changes to ensure a more equitable society. Tune in for an insightful look at what we can do to bridge the gender gap in the North of England and beyond.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:28 Meet the Guests: Alice Wiseman and Dr. Julie Scanlon00:58 The State of Women's Health in the UK02:52 Impact of Socioeconomic Factors on Women04:04 Intersectionality and Women's Experiences04:45 Gender Pay Gap and Occupational Segregation05:50 Challenges of Unpaid Care Work11:50 Visibility and Inclusion in the Workplace19:10 Food Insecurity and Poverty29:10 Domestic Violence During the Pandemic37:33 Policy Measures and Future Directions41:22 Call to Action and Closing RemarksEnjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Alice Wiseman (Guest)Dr. Julie Scanlon (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison welcomes the insightful and provocative political commentator and writer, Grace Blakeley. Grace discusses her latest book, 'Vulture Capitalism,' which delves into the intricate and often opaque mechanisms of capitalist economies. This episode reveals startling insights into the concentration of power, the lack of accountability, and the formidable influence of financial institutions and corporations in perpetuating these systems. Moreover, it highlights grassroots movements and alternative models as pathways to a fairer society. Join us for an in-depth exploration of systemic issues and practical strategies for collective change.Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction00:34 Meet Grace Blakeley00:57 Discussing 'Vulture Capitalism'04:14 Capitalism & Marxist Perspective05:53 Challenging the Status Quo33:12 Employee Ownership & Mutuality36:53 The Influence of Financial Institutions41:57 Closing RemarksGrace's revelations are essential for anyone looking to understand and challenge the systems that uphold economic disparity. Her emphasis on actionable insights and grassroots movements offers a hopeful path towards a more equitable future.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Host: Alison DunnGuest: Grace Blakeley Producer: Peter BellThis podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison speaks with David Smith, CEO of Oasis Community Housing and the Labour candidate for North Northumberland. The discussion delves into David's extensive career, his motivations for entering politics, and his vision for North Northumberland and the UK. Alison and David explore the systemic challenges of homelessness, the importance of preventative measures, and David's personal experiences that shape his political views.Episode Highlights:IntroductionDavid's Work with Oasis Community HousingDecision to Run for OfficePersonal Experiences Shaping Political ViewsPriorities for North NorthumberlandChallenges and Solutions in Public ServicesEngaging Younger VotersLabour Party's Stance on Key IssuesRestoring Trust in Politics David's candid conversation with Alison sheds light on the critical issues facing North Northumberland and British politics. His vision for a more inclusive, supportive society, along with his experience in the third sector, highlights the potential for meaningful change. As a Labour candidate, David emphasises honesty, integrity, and long-term solutions to improve the lives of constituents, aiming to create a brighter future for Britain.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Host: Alison DunnGuest: David SmithProducer: Peter BellThis podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need for a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode, Alison speaks with Brian Aitken, former editor of the 'Journal' newspaper and founder of the new online magazine 'The QT'. The discussion covers Brian's extensive journalism career, his successful campaigns that boosted the North East region, and his transition to media consultancy, including work with Newcastle United Football Club. They explore the importance of credible journalism, Brian's campaigns, and the positive impact of his work on the community. Additionally, Brian shares the vision behind 'The QT', emphasising fair, balanced news and its potential influence on the North East's socio-political landscape. The episode underscores the necessity for regional advocacy and engagement through quality journalism.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:30 A Background To Brian Aitken: From Editor to Media Consultant01:22 Brian's Early Journalism Career03:55 Campaigns and Achievements at The Journal12:40 The Transition to Newcastle United16:14 The Birth of The QT: A New Online Magazine19:45 The QT's Mission and Content23:07 Political Neutrality and Social Impact26:25 Future Plans and Impact of The QT27:37 Closing Thoughts And Key TakeawaysEnjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Brian Aitken (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.In this episode of 'This is the North' podcast, host Alison Dunn, supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company, engages with Andrew Haig (CEO of Newcastle Building Society), Nancy Doyle-Hall (Executive Director of the Virgin Money Foundation), and Emma Black (Co-founder of GB Bank and CEO of Cascade Cash Management) to discuss the role of financial institutions in supporting economic development and wealth creation in local communities, especially in the north of England. The conversation explores how these institutions contribute to a more equal and inclusive society, the significance of financial literacy, and their initiatives to support low-income individuals and small businesses. The panellists also discuss future plans for engaging with local government and not-for-profits through devolution to address economic disparities, aiming for a fairer distribution of wealth and a more inclusive financial environment.Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to 'This is the North' Podcast00:39 Introducing the Panel: Voices from the Financial Sector03:29 Exploring the Role of Financial Institutions in Community Development05:45 The Impact of Financial Institutions on Social Change and Economic Equality08:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Purposeful Leadership and Social Impact17:48 Collaboration and Community Engagement: A Path to Financial Literacy and Inclusion25:07 Discussing the British Reluctance to Talk About Money30:34 Empowering Individuals in Financial Decisions31:10 The Simplicity of Switching Financial Providers31:54 The Importance of Trust and Accessibility in Finance32:41 Maintaining High Street Presence for Financial Services33:11 Innovative Approaches to Community Banking34:17 The Role of Community Spaces in Financial Institutions36:14 Supporting Communities Through the Virgin Money Foundation36:55 Spotlight on Local Organizations Making a Difference41:09 Enhancing Financial Returns for Charities and Schools43:16 Future Plans for Addressing Wealth Inequality49:22 The Potential of Devolution to Address Economic Disparities57:36 Concluding Thoughts on Community and Economic DevelopmentEnjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Andrew Haig (Guest)Nancy Doyle-Hall (Guest)Emma Black (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.

Welcome to ‘This Is The North’ Podcast, your source of transformative conversations. An intentional challenge to the systems holding back the North of England. Hosted by Alison Dunn, an award-winning charity chief executive and former solicitor. This podcast is supported by Society Matters Community Interest Company and is dedicated to curating and sharing knowledge, powering the change we need from a more equal and inclusive society.In today’s episode, Alison is joined by Nicola Headlam, a renowned independent economic adviser and former Head of the Northern Powerhouse. Together, they delve into the intricacies of policy and politics from the era of Thatcherism and Lord Heseltine to today's complex geopolitical landscape. Today’s discussion focuses on:Economic Development: Nicola shares insights from her pioneering work in neighbourhood renewal and her approach to evidence-based policies aimed at addressing inequalities.Historical Context and Policies: We critique the evolution from New Labour’s regional development policies to their recent impacts on the North.Subnational Economic Development: Emphasis on practical, evidence-based policymaking with a "worst-first" approach to significantly reduce economic disparities.Cultural and Economic Potential: A vibrant discussion on the North's rich culture and untapped potential for economic revitalisation.Role of Evidence in Policy: Highlighting the crucial role of data-driven approaches in mitigating regional disparities and the impacts of a decade of managed decline.Infrastructure and Urban Development: Exploring the pivotal role of infrastructure in economic development, including discussions on the abandonment of HS2 and the efforts toward 'levelling up.'Social Issues and Public Sector Challenges: An examination of public sector cuts and the critical roles within the third sector amidst shifts in government policy.Brexit and Its Implications: Assessing Brexit’s tangible impacts on regional development and economic strategies.Future of Economic Development: Discussing the urgent need for continued investment in infrastructure and innovation to propel Northern England forward.Key Thoughts & Takeaways:This discussion offers a retrospective look at pivotal decisions that have shaped the current challenges in Northern England. You will leave this episode equipped with a deeper understanding of the complex socio-economic disparities facing the North, and inspired by actionable strategies that aim to leverage regional strengths, paving a future filled with hope, opportunities and possibilities.Enjoyed the podcast? Subscribe now, and together, let's empower our communities for a brighter, more equitable future.Alison Dunn (Host)Nicola Headlam (Guest)Peter Bell (Producer)This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made, dedicated to powering societal change through knowledge sharing.