In this final episode of the season, we reflect on the theme of hope: what it means to hold onto it, nurture it, and protect it, especially in times that feel unjust.Weāre living in a world where discrimination and division remain ever present, and the noise of those who want to divide can often feel loud. But amidst it all, hope persists, not as blind optimism but as a deliberate, powerful act of resistance. In this conversation, we explore how hope shows up in our work, our communities, and ourselves.What does it mean to stay hopeful when the headlines say otherwise? How can we hold space for loss and anger while still believing in the possibility of change? We talk about the role of hope in social justice, the quiet power of small actions, and the importance of imagination in building a better future.As we take a short break before returning in the autumn, we leave you with this episode as a reminder: hope is not naive. It is necessary.Tune in, share, and join the conversation.š² Instagram: @matterspodcastš¼ LinkedIn: Social Mattersš Website: socialmatters.org.uk
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Episode 17 (S7). Breaking Barriers in Womenās Football (feat. Kerry Davis)
In this episode, weāre honoured to be joined by a true trailblazer: Kerry Davis, the first Black woman to represent England at football.Kerry shares her incredible journey through the game, from her early days breaking barriers to representing her country on the international stage. With honesty and humility, she reflects on the challenges she faced as a Black woman in women's football, the progress made since then, and the work thatās still left to do.We talk about identity, representation, and the fight for equity in football. Kerryās insights offer a deep, personal perspective on resilience, legacy, and what it means to lead by example in spaces where youāve had to carve your own path.This conversation isnāt just about footballāitās about visibility, voice, and valuing those who came before. Itās a reminder that history-making often starts with someone's determination and simply refusing to sit on the sidelines.Tune in, share, and join the conversation.š² Instagram: @matterspodcastš¼ LinkedIn: Social Mattersš Website: socialmatters.org.uk
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Episode 16 (S7). What No One Told Us About Menopause (feat. Dr. Elise Dallas)
In this episode, we have a powerful and much-needed conversation about menopauseāwhat it is, what it isnāt, and the realities so many experience in silence.Weāre joined by Dr. Elise Dallas, who brings her professional expertise to the discussion. She helps us unpack the physical, emotional, and social impact of menopause, while also challenging the stigma and misinformation that too often surround it. From hormonal changes and mental health to workplace support and personal relationships, Dr. Dallas offers insights that are both grounding and empowering.Menopause impacts in a multitude of different ways, but one thing is clear: it deserves more understanding, more visibility, and more open dialogue. Together, we explore how to create space for honest conversations and how to support ourselvesāand each otherāthrough this transition.Tune in, share, and join the conversation.If you want to find out more about Dr. Dallasās work then you can follow her at @drelisedallas.š² Instagram: @matterspodcastš¼ LinkedIn: Social Mattersš Website: socialmatters.org.uk
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Episode 15 (S7). Who Makes the Rules? The Fine Line Between Structure and Exclusion
In this episode, we have a conversation about the complicated world of rules and inclusionāhow structures meant to create order can sometimes exclude, and what it takes to build spaces where everyone feels included and as though they belong.Rules are meant to keep things fair, safe, and organised, and in many situations, they do just that. But who gets to make them, and who gets left out in the process? We explore the fine balance between structure and freedom, and why rethinking the way we design systems is crucial for a more inclusive society.Whether it's in workplaces or public spaces, we unpack how rigid rules can unintentionally marginalise people, and how small shifts in mindset and practice can open doors for those who have historically been left out. Inclusion isn't just about making roomāitās about transforming the room itself.If you care about equity, and building communities that work for everyone, this episode is for you.Tune in, share, and join the conversation.š² Instagram: @matterspodcastš¼ LinkedIn: Social Mattersš Website: socialmatters.org.uk
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Episode 14 (S7). Grief Isn't linear: Navigating Grief and Loss (feat: Imogen)
In this episode, we have an important and long-overdue conversation about grief and lossāour relationship with them, the support systems that carry us, and how we learn to live alongside deep emotional pain.Weāre joined by Imogen, who shares her personal journey navigating the loss of a loved one. She speaks honestly about how grief has shaped who she is, her evolving relationship with loss, and how the brilliant charity Edenās Trust provided a safe and supportive space when she needed it most.Edenās Trust is a London-based charity offering free, confidential support to people and families dealing with bereavement. Through peer groups, counselling, and community events, they help individuals feel less alone in their grief and find ways to heal in their own time and on their own terms.Grief isnāt one-size-fits-allāitās complex, personal, and often hidden. Together, we explore what it means to create space for grief, and how one navigates it while attempting to move forward.Tune in, share, and join the conversation.š Learn more about Edenās Trust: edenstrust.org.ukš² Instagram: @matterspodcastš¼ LinkedIn: Social Mattersš Website: socialmatters.org.uk
Three friends that happen to be social workers discuss current social issues from their front room/studio. Expect debate and hard hitting real talk with a sprinkle of top drawer humour to keep it moving.
UK