Trigger warning: This episode touches on themes of trauma, isolation, and the impact of the pandemic on children’s mental health. Please take care while listening.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob chats with Mick Collins, a storyteller, theatre practitioner, leading practitioner in Trauma Informed Practice, and educator.

Mick shares his creative and compassionate approach to working with SEND children and children with trauma backgrounds, showing how theatre, play, and sensory experiences can open up communication and connection.

Together, they explore the importance of safe spaces, understanding behaviours, and rebuilding communication between children, families, and schools. Listeners will gain practical ideas and inspiration for supporting children in joyful, strength-based ways.

“It's not just the kids we work with. We work with the families, and we work with the schools, because for me, what's happened is communication's broken down.” - Mick Collins

Key Takeaways:

• Follow children’s interests. Bringing their passions into learning spaces helps them feel safe and engaged.

• Play builds connection. Creativity and play are powerful tools for communication.

• Families matter too. Supporting parents and schools is just as important as supporting children.

• Safe spaces help healing. Environments like sensory gardens and interactive theatre allow children to express themselves.

About Mick:

Mick Collins is a storyteller, theatre practitioner, leading practitioner in Trauma Informed Practice, and teacher with over 30 years of experience and passion in theatre and education. His speciality is technical theatre, specifically light, sound, and AV. He believes stories are imaginative learning experiences that can be accessed through the senses. His work combines technical theatre, sound, light, and movement with a love of dance and play. Mick currently teaches at Root’n’Branch Acres, an 18-acre woodland stage and working farm in the UK, where he helps children, many from trauma backgrounds, build confidence and connection through storytelling and creativity. When a story is interactive, he knows it becomes play, which is how he teaches.

Learn more about Achievable Journey

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Trigger warning: This episode briefly discusses challenges faced by disabled and neurodivergent individuals, including social isolation and stigma.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Dale Dixon, a passionate musician and advocate from the neurodivergent community. Dale shares how his love for music began with his mother’s influence, the challenges and joys of his musical journey, and his dreams of performing around the world.

"We can tell our own self that we love our own disability, whether you're blind or visually impaired or whatever your disability is. Be patient with it and see what it's all about." – Dale Dixon

His story celebrates resilience, friendship, and the importance of community in helping us grow and thrive. Listeners will come away inspired to embrace their passions and support others in pursuing their dreams.

Key Takeaways:

• Community support can open doors and help dreams flourish.

• Your voice and your story are valuable, speak your truth.

• Embracing your identity, including disability, can be empowering.

• Patience and self-compassion are key to personal growth.

Learn more about Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions around friendship challenges, feelings of isolation, and the emotional impact of not being accepted for who you are. While the conversation is uplifting, some listeners may find these themes emotionally sensitive.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with MissNatasha Connect, an author, digital educator, and passionate advocate for neurodivergent communities. Together, they explore what real, affirming friendship looks like for neurodivergent people.

“Having someone that really accepts you for you, your whole. The light, the dark, the whole shebang that comes with it and supporting us to be ourselves.”

From embracing boundaries to honouring individuality, this conversation invites listeners to reflect on how friendships can become more inclusive, respectful, and empowering. You'll hear both personal reflections and practical advice that centre authenticity and connection.

Key Takeaways:

• True friendship starts with being accepted just as you are, no masking needed.

• Open, honest conversations help build trust and emotional safety.

• Boundaries are not barriers, they’re bridges to healthier relationships.

• It’s okay to ask for what you need in a friendship. Embrace your unique way of thinking and connecting, there is strength in it.

About MissNatasha Connects:

MissNatasha Connects is an author, digital educator, and speaker who is authentically autistic. Mother of two, Auntie to many. She supports education, employment and family organisations to uplift and value the individuals they serve. Through books; organisational strategising sessions, support groups and speaking engagements.

Connect on Instagram: @natashaconnect or @tashas_tees

Learn more about Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.