This is your journey podcast: Season 2

Children and Family Health Devon (CFHD) are proud to launch season two of the ‘This is your journey’ podcast, with a focus on our Specialist Learning Disability pathway.

Hosted by Jenna, Specialist Learning Disability Nurse in Mental Health, working within the pathway, this podcast aims to bring into conversations, topics that might be more difficult and sensitive.

You can listen to season two of the podcast below:

We know that parenting a child or young person with a learning disability can bring moments of joy, pride, and connection, alongside times that feel overwhelming or uncertain. You are not alone, and there is support available if and when it feels helpful to reach out.

  • “Emily you have always been an incredible advocate for your children, it’s great to hear this podcast, hearing you also advocating for yourself at last! Thank you for your advice about seeing the family as a whole and taking everyone’s needs into consideration”. 
  • “Emily, such an inspirational Mum! Thank you for completing the podcast, You are such an amazing advocate for your children and yourself! Your reflective insight into how we enter your family and how to shape and adjust our support to align with the goals and values at the heart of your family life. Your reflections regarding the level of appointments that family and children face is really helpful and that is something I will take forward in my practice. I think other parents will find your words really supportive keep being you!” 
  • Emily, your podcast was so helpful for us as professionals to listen to. It reminds us why we are doing our job! We need to remember to advocate for the children and their family we also challenge other professionals when they are not listening to families and taking a holistic view. II hear all the things you are saying, and it reflects so much of what many other parents and carers tell us. I really liked how you and Jenna broke down all the key points that were important for you when working with professionals. I think it will be really valuable for other parents to hear this, as you also shared your learning over your parenting journey so far. Wishing you and your family all the best and thank you so much for this the time to do this. Very much appreciated by our team” 
  • “Emily, I am grateful to hear from you on your episode of your journey with Jenna. We understand that every family’s journey is different, but I found your insight into what you found helpful, particularly about professionals considering the family valuable. Your reflection on learning over the years to face one battle at a time resonated with me on a professional and personal level and I am sure that your contribution to the podcast where you give your insight into your expertise will help many families and professionals in so many ways” 
  • “Emily, your podcast was so helpful for us as professionals to listen to. It reminds us why we are doing our job! We need to remember to advocate for the children and their family we also challenge other professionals when they are not listening to families and taking a holistic view. II hear all the things you are saying and it reflects so much of what many other parents and carers tell us. I really liked how you and Jenna broke down all the key points that were important for you when working with professionals. I think  it will be really valuable for other parents to hear this, as you also shared your learning over your parenting journey so far. Wishing you and your family all the best and thank you so much for this the time to do this. Very much appreciated by our team” 
  • Emily shares an honest and powerful reflection on family life, reminding us of the importance of taking things “one battle at a time” when life feels overwhelming. Her experience highlights the value of staying positive, accepting what cannot be changed, and keeping children’s needs at the centre of family life. 

Emily’s journey encourages professionals to come with an open mind, really listen, and work alongside families to support the whole family. It also highlights how thoughtful planning of appointments and support can help reduce overwhelm. 

A gentle reminder that small changes in how we listen and work together can make a meaningful difference.