On The Spectrum Podcast

From Behaviour to Communication: A Real StoryIn this deeply personal episode of On The Spectrum, we are joined by Sharon and Lisa-Marie for an honest and powerful conversation about understanding behaviour through a different lens. Together, they share Lexi’s journey before and after coming to The Loddon School, exploring the realities families can face when a child’s needs are not fully understood and the transformational impact of compassionate, communication-focused support.The discussion explores behaviour as communication, the importance of emotional safety, and how approaches such as PROACT-SCIPr-UK® can help children feel understood, supported, and able to thrive. Sharon also reflects on the emotional moment she felt she had “got her little girl back”, offering hope and insight to families and professionals alike.This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of understanding, collaboration, and seeing the child behind the behaviour. Topics Discussed:Behaviour as communicationSupporting autistic children with complex needsThe parent perspectivePROACT-SCIPr-UK® and compassionate supportEmotional regulation and connectionBuilding trust and positive outcomes for children and families

In this episode of On The Spectrum, we sit down with Richard Kennett, CEO of The Loddon Foundation, to explore the vision behind the organisation that brings together The LoddonSchool and Loddon Training. Richard reflects on his first year in leadership and shares how the Foundation continues to empower children through specialist care and education, while also supporting professionals through high-quality training. Join us for a conversation about purpose, collaboration, and building brighter futures for children, families, and practitioners alike.

In this episode of On The Spectrum Podcast, we are back at The Loddon Conference 2025 in Basingstoke for our conference special.We chat with professionals across autism, education, care and Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) about what ethical, consistent support looks like in real settings and what truly makes a difference for individuals with challenging behaviours, families and the teams around them.

In this special episode of On The Spectrum, we take you to the heart of the annual Loddon Conference in Basingstoke, where professionals, educators, and advocates gathered to share ideas, best practices, and personal experiences around Autism, Special Educational Needs (SEN), Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), and neurodiversity.From inclusive education to trauma-informed care, and from behaviour strategies to lived experiences — this episode features real voices doing real work in the field. It’s an uplifting and insightful snapshot of a community dedicated to making a difference.🎧 Tune in and discover how collaboration and passion are shaping the future of inclusive support.🔗 Learn more:www.loddonschool.orgwww.pbsuk.orgwww.kindtailoredcare.co.ukwww.tellitasitis.uk

In this powerful episode of On The Spectrum, we speak with Rachel Wright, Director and Founder of Born At The Right Time, a platform dedicated to transforming the way professionals and families connect in the world of complex needs and disability.Rachel shares her personal and professional insights on the misconceptions around disability, the urgent need for change in education and healthcare, and her lived experience as a parent of a child with complex needs. We also discuss her moving memoir, The Skies I’m Under, and the hopes she holds for the future of inclusion and co-production.Whether you're a parent, practitioner, or advocate, this episode is packed with compassion, real talk, and a call to bridge the gap between families and services.🔗 Learn more at: www.loddonschool.org www.bornattherighttime.com

In this insightful episode of On The Spectrum, we are joined by Dr Beverley Samways, founder and director of Unique Connections, to explore the complex and sensitive topic of trauma, particularly in the context of learning disabilities and autism.With over 20 years of experience in the care sector, Dr Samways shares her deep understanding of trauma-informed care and how emotional literacy and relational support can help individuals who self-injure or show signs of distress. We discuss how her organisation, Unique Connections, works with schools and care providers to create tailored, meaningful approaches that start by finding a unique point of connection with each individual.Whether you're a professional, caregiver, or someone seeking to understand trauma more deeply, this episode is filled with compassion, experience, and practical guidance.🔗 Learn more:👉 The Loddon School – www.loddonschool.org👉 Unique Connections – www.uniqueconnections.org.uk

In Episode 10 of On The Spectrum, we sit down with Sam Corbett, Board Certified Behaviour Analyst and the newly appointed Vice Chair of The Loddon Foundation.Sam shares her inspiring career journey, from her beginnings as a support worker to her current role as Senior PBS Clinician at PBS4 and her leadership at The Loddon Foundation. We explore her passion for Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), her commitment to person-centred care, and her vision for the future of neurodiverse support services.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in behavioural science, inclusive practice, or the future of autism support.🔗 Learn more:👉 The Loddon School – www.loddonschool.org👉 PBS4 – www.pbs4.org.uk

In this episode of the “On The Spectrum” podcast, we are joined by Occupational Therapist Carolyne Oates. Carolyne shares her invaluable experiences and knowledge about the complex sensory needs that are inherent in all of us, especially those on the autism spectrum.Tune in to discover how Occupational Therapy can play a crucial role in fostering inclusion and independence. Learn how tailored therapies can help individuals gain confidence and become the best versions of themselves. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or just curious about sensory support, this episode offers enlightening insights that you won’t want to miss.Listen now and join us on the journey towards understanding and empowerment.

This week on "On The Spectrum," we unlock the magic of inclusive environments through the lens of gaming with our special guest, Scott from Dice Tower Gaming. Dice Tower isn't just a lounge and café; it's a beacon of inclusion, celebrating the rich tapestry of pop culture, board games, graphic novels, and more, all while fostering a community where neurodiversity is not just welcomed—it's celebrated.In this episode, we delve into how environments like Dice Tower Gaming serve as sanctuaries of capability and inclusion, particularly for neurodiverse individuals. Discover the surprising and profound benefits of board games and role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons in supporting social skills, creative thinking, and emotional growth among neurodiverse gamers.Scott shares his insights on creating spaces that champion neurodiversity, the role games play in building bridges between different worlds, and how every roll of the dice or move on the board can be a step towards understanding and acceptance.Join us for an enlightening journey into how gaming lounges like Dice Tower are levelling up the game of inclusion. Whether you're a hardcore gamer, a fan of pop culture, or someone passionate about neurodiversity, this episode will inspire you to think differently about play and inclusion.Tune in, subscribe, and let's explore together how the world of gaming is creating new realms of possibilities for everyone on the spectrum.

In this heartfelt episode of "On The Spectrum," we explore the often-overlooked experiences of siblings of those on the autism spectrum. Join our insightful conversation with two special guests - Amy Braithwaite, who formerly worked at The Loddon School's Behaviour and Analysis Support Department and is currently a Trainee Education Mental Health Practitioner, and Amelie Reddy, the 10-year-old daughter of our first guest, Andy Reddy.Both Amy and Ami share the unique joys and challenges of having a brother on the spectrum. Their stories shed light on the dynamics within families touched by autism, offering valuable insights into the support, understanding, and love that shape these relationships.This episode not only delves into their personal journeys but also broadens the conversation about neurodiversity's impact on family life. Whether you're a sibling, parent, educator, or someone keen to understand more about life on the spectrum, this episode provides a rare glimpse into the lives of those who grow up alongside neurodiverse family members.Tune in for an episode full of empathy, learning, and love as we dive into the world of siblings living with and loving someone on the autism spectrum.