Able to Care

Living Alongside Young People: Foster Care & Creative Healing


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In this heartfelt and powerful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy Baker speaks with Helen Archer, a long-term foster carer, writer, and passionate advocate for care-experienced young people. With over 30 years in roles from nannying and social work to lecturing and recruiting foster carers, Helen brings deep lived experience and emotional insight into what it means to “live alongside” teenagers in care. She opens up about trauma-informed practice, the life-changing power of creative writing, and the unseen challenges of leaving care — known as the “care cliff.” Whether you’re a carer, teacher, social worker, or simply someone who believes in the power of compassion, this conversation will stay with you.

💙 Sponsored by Carers Card UK

The Able to Care Podcast is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK – the UK’s number one carers card.

Founded by two best friends, Carers Card UK offers recognition, rewards, and community for paid and unpaid carers. For less than the price of a box of chocolates per year, you’ll unlock:

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    Able to CareBy Able Training Support Ltd