In this powerful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy Baker sits down with Ryan Kennedy, whose journey from being in care to becoming both a foster carer and social worker shines a light on resilience, reform, and real change. Ryan opens up about the reality of entering foster care, why language matters, and how lived experience can shape better practice for children today. With honesty and insight, Ryan challenges the system while offering hope for what truly works in supporting young people. 💙 Sponsored by Carers Card UKThis episode is sponsored by Carers Card UK — the UK’s #1 carers card offering recognition, discounts, and a supportive community for paid and unpaid carers. 👉 Explore the benefits: Carers Card UK  🎟️ Order your card today 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned Carers Card UK – support, recognition & rewards for carers Able Hub – access exclusive courses, events & resources for carers Kennedy Framework – Ryan’s developing model for trauma-informed fostering (link to Ryan’s socials/website if available) The legacy of Victoria Climbié and reforms in children’s services Key concepts: trauma-informed care, ACE’s (Adverse Childhood Experiences), family time vs. contact 🧠 Three Key Messages Language matters. Words like “placement” or “contact” may feel clinical to professionals but can deeply affect how children experience care. Lived experience is a superpower. Ryan’s perspective as someone who has been a child in care, a foster parent, and a social worker gives unique insights into what the system misses. Consistency builds trust. Beyond policies, what young people need most is a constant, safe adult who remains present—even after they “age out” of care. ⏱️ Chapter Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & sponsor: Carers Card UK 01:42 – Ryan Kennedy’s story: from child in care to carer & social worker 02:36 – What social workers miss in those first “safe place” moments 05:40 – Wearing different hats: child, foster parent, social worker 09:14 – Reading files as someone who once was a file 12:20 – How AI could reshape social work language & empathy 13:33 – What training doesn’t tell you: system flaws & barriers 16:00 – Saying no as a foster parent & setting boundaries 19:00 – The difference between being cared for and being understood 25:00 – “Placement” vs. “home” and why language shapes belonging 30:00 – Biggest challenges: advocating within broken systems 42:00 – Education struggles & supporting excluded children 48:00 – Facing the “care cliff” and supporting beyond 18 54:00 – The Kennedy Framework: safe spaces, noticing the unspoken & developing trust 59:00 – Closing thoughts & staying connected 🎯 Why Listen to This Episode? Hear the reality of care from someone who’s lived it on all sides Learn practical insights for carers, teachers & professionals working with children Understand how language and consistency can change a child’s sense of safety Be inspired by Ryan’s Kennedy Framework for trauma-informed care 🔗 Connect with Us 📲 Instagram: @AbleTraining📲 LinkedIn: Able Training📲 TikTok: @AbleToCarePodcast🌐 Website: AbleHub.uk 👉 If Ryan’s story resonated, please follow, rate & share so more carers, teachers and families can learn from this vital conversation.