shmu IN FOCUS

‘I’ve seen people say people with Tourette’s need their tongue cut out, people with Tourette’s should be muzzled, gagged.  A lot of people have misconceptions of what Tourette’s is’   

In the Two Steps Forward Podcast brought to you by shmu,  Luke chats to Aydn, Yousef and Marcus about what it is like to live with Tourette’s and how it impacts his daily life and wellbeing. 

Research suggests around 1 in 100 people live with this neurological condition – yet a recent social media storm revealed how misunderstood it is.    

We also hear from Lynsday Hay from Tourette Scotland, a charity that supports people with Tourette Syndrome as well as their family, carers or those in education or workplace settings.   

A shmu-produced podcast on behalf of the Poverty Alliance, looking ahead to the Scotland Demands Better march and rally in Edinburgh on October 25th 2025

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Warm Homes, Green Travel, Safe Climate 

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM presenter Rose met with Scott Herrett of Friends of the Earth Scotland, exploring the links between the environment, climate justice, and tackling poverty.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Better Investment in Our Communities 

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, shmuFM volunteer Aron interviewed our very own Dave Black, Community Development Manager at shmu.  Themes covered included the need for increased and sustained investment in the community and third sector, the importance of investing in volunteer support, and how more power and resources can be transferred to communities.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Better Investment in Life's Essentials

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteer Alan Parker interviewed Iona Rennie and Davy MacIver from Shelter Scotland, to discuss the theme of better investment in life's essentials, with a particular focus on housing and homelessness.  

Challenge Poverty Week 2025 - Fair work

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteer Steph interviewed the President of Aberdeen Trades Union Council on the topic of Fair Work.  The discussion covered issues such as the role of trade unions in improving the situation for working people, and what more can be done to tackle in-work poverty.  

As part of Challenge Poverty Week 2025, our shmuFM volunteers Dave and Rachel interviewed the ever-inspiring and passionate Fiona Young, Development Worker at Tillydrone Flat.  We explored the theme of social security, how individuals and communities are being impacted by the current benefits systems, and what changes are needed locally and nationally to change things for the better.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we examine the critical link between poverty and health inequalities. Poverty has a profound impact on physical and mental health, often limiting access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe living conditions. Those living in poverty are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, face shorter life expectancies, and encounter barriers to mental health support.Through powerful interviews, expert analysis, and real-life stories, Shmu In Focus explores how poverty drives health disparities and what can be done to address them. Join us as we shine a light on the fight for a fairer, healthier society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their income or background.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we examine the critical link between poverty and health inequalities. Poverty has a profound impact on physical and mental health, often limiting access to healthcare, nutritious food, and safe living conditions. Those living in poverty are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses, face shorter life expectancies, and encounter barriers to mental health support.Through powerful interviews, expert analysis, and real-life stories, Shmu In Focus explores how poverty drives health disparities and what can be done to address them. Join us as we shine a light on the fight for a fairer, healthier society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their income or background.

In this episode of shmu In Focus, we delve into the strong link between poverty and the stigma that often accompanies it. Host Mike sits down with Sarah Campbell, Head of Participation and Advocacy at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Project Lead for the Poverty and Stigma Design Team, along with Steve Arnott from Beats Bus, a mobile project that brings music, art, and dance to young people in Northern England. Beats Bus also runs a mentorship program for those aged 8-25, offering creative outlets and guidance.Poverty is not just about financial difficulties—it brings a host of social, emotional, and psychological challenges. Those struggling with poverty often face societal judgment and isolation, making it even more difficult to access help and support.As part of The Poverty Alliance’s Challenge Poverty Week, we are advocating for a fair and just society. In this episode, hear real stories from individuals affected by poverty, as we break down the stereotypes and misconceptions that fuel stigma. Through interviews, expert insights, and community voices, shmu In Focus highlights efforts to challenge stigma, promote understanding, and inspire change.