One set of footprints

Host Matt interviews Dan Buxall‑Simpson, founder of Epic Family CIC and a foster parent, about his decision to step into the fostering space, the challenges of setting up Epic Fostering, and the mission behind Epic Support to provide trauma‑informed, wraparound services for children and carers in the South West. The episode explores system failures, the importance of individualised support, how a not‑for‑profit model can make a difference, and what’s next for Epic as it begins placing children and expanding mentoring and education support.

In this episode the host sits with Tracy, a foster carer of 25 years, who shares the everyday realities of opening her home to children who’ve experienced trauma — the small acts of patience, the routines that help, and the deep emotional costs of saying goodbye. They also discuss the cracks in the system: overloaded social workers, inconsistent support, and the urgent need for practical, trauma-informed services so carers and children can get the help they truly need.

Matthew interviews Tim, founder of Three Circles fostering , they talk about failures in the care system and how prioritising education and supportive foster care can transform children’s lives. They discuss trauma, stigma, shocking costs of residential care, practical solutions (teachers in fostering services, lifelong support), and the need for systemic change to prevent homelessness, offending and poor outcomes for care-experienced young people.

On this episode of One Set of Footprints, Amy from Luna's Fund shares her personal journey from losing her daughter Luna to founding a charity that offers practical support for families after baby loss. Luna's Fund provides relaxing getaways, food shop deliveries, nursery redecoration, private scans for pregnancy after loss, and growing support for dads — all rooted in community, compassion and hope. Amy discusses burnout, advocacy for better bereavement care, the vision for a dedicated Luna's Lodge, and a message of hope: the pain will change and healing is possible.

Ryan shares his powerful journey from losing his stepfather at 15 to struggling with anxiety and depression, and how Andy's Man Club gave him connection, confidence, and purpose. He describes the comfort of online meetings, the support of facilitators and peers, and how speaking up transformed his mental health. This episode highlights the importance of brotherhood, destigmatizing men’s mental health, and the message that "it's okay to talk." Ryan also discusses his role as a facilitator, coping strategies like gaming and community activities, and hopes to expand support in Sheffield.

Martin shares his journey from childhood abuse and years of silence to finding hope, family and purpose. After crises with substance use, health struggles and a near-breakdown, a compassionate police officer and Andy’s Man’s Club helped him open up, heal, and become a facilitator supporting others. This episode explores trauma, recovery, and the power of speaking out — a reminder that asking for help is strength and no one has to suffer alone. Silence has a heart beat Talking keeps it alive 

Welcome to today’s episode exploring Andy’s Man’s Club, a grassroots movement creating safe, non-judgmental peer-to-peer support for men’s mental health across the UK. Host and facilitator Mike discuss how weekly groups work, the rules and training that keep spaces safe, and the powerful impact of listening, honesty and community on members’ recovery. This episode highlights personal stories of resilience, the role of grassroots action in filling gaps in mainstream care, and the simple but vital message: it’s okay to talk.

This episode features Chris Slater, a lead facilitator for the Romford Andy’s Man Club, sharing his personal journey through grief, depression, and recovery after joining the charity. Chris explains how online and face-to-face sessions work, what new attendees can expect, and the practical support and community that help men open up and find hope.

On World Mental Health Day the host shares alarming Mind statistics showing sharp rises in self-harm and suicidal thoughts, especially among men, and describes personal experiences with loss and depression. He highlights local and online men’s support groups (Man Down, Every Man Matters, Analyser Man’s Club), explains how peer support helped him become a facilitator, and previews upcoming guests and live episodes while urging listeners to seek help and follow the podcast.

In this episode, host reconnects with listeners and interviews Kirstie, who shares her personal journey through prenatal and postnatal depression and how Mind charities provided crucial support. Kirstie explains why she is running the London Marathon to raise funds and awareness, outlines her fundraising plans, and discusses the mental health services Mind offers. Tune in to hear Kirstie’s story, learn about practical ways to support her fundraiser, and get insight into local and national mental health resources.   Please visit just giving link below and for more information on mind the website link is below .  Thanks for listening !!   Kirsty Jones is fundraising for Mind   https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=36299d8d220791f1a2dc299f5ea3cc35223c39d26ae913f7ca1a9a3fc7be4d27JmltdHM9MTc1OTk2ODAwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=0ca85b15-9f1e-6c81-3a9c-4f549ea56dcb&psq=mind&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubWluZC5vcmcudWsv      

Join me and Harvey England pitch-side as we gear up for a powerful charity football match raising awareness for two incredible organisations supported by One Set of Footprints. This isn’t just about goals on the field—it’s about making real impact off it. In this episode, we talk teamwork, community, and the stories behind the charities we’re championing. Whether you're a football fan, an advocate, or just curious about how sport can drive change, this one’s for you. Tune in to hear: •  Why this match matters •  The mission behind One Set of Footprints

Welcome to the One Set Footprints Podcast, where I share my journey through adoption and my life story. In this episode, we feature special guests from Andy's Man Club, a men's mental health charity, and Team McKayla, a kids' cancer charity. Discover the incredible work these organizations are doing to make a difference. We'll also have special episodes with the Argyle Community Trust, highlighting the impactful programs they run at Mandan Sports and Community Hub, and across Devon and Cornwall. Join us as we explore these inspiring stories and more. Kindly sponsored by MJB Plastering Sherford, the One Set Footprints Podcast is available on all your favourite podcast platforms. Supporting communities, one step at a time.

Welcome to a special episode of One Set of Footprints, an Argyle Community Trust special, where we showcase the incredible work of community groups at the Mandan Sports and Community Hub. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Kirstie, the passionate leader behind Baby Sensory Groups in Plymouth. Kirstie shares her personal journey of how she transitioned from being a participant to running Baby Sensory, a transformative program for babies aged 0-13 months. She discusses the numerous benefits of the classes, from promoting hand-eye coordination to encouraging social interactions among parents. Discover the variety of themed activities, including the popular 'Magic Box,' and how these sessions are meticulously designed to aid in a baby's development. Kirstie also touches on the importance of engaging fathers in these activities and her efforts to make Baby Sensory accessible to all, including potential collaborations with local schools to support vulnerable families. Don't miss this heartwarming episode filled with insights into the positive impact of Baby Sensory on both children and parents. Tune in to learn more about Kirstie's dedication to fostering a supportive community for new parents and their little ones.

Talking about how Andy man club has helped us and how it works with special guest Stephen and Mike

response from devon county council and adopt south west

After born into a abusive family and then adopted with no support hear start of story from abused kid to buisness owner . one step at a time you can achieve anything no matter what past.