Every Day with Ray: What Happens When We See Potential First? | EP10

In this episode of Spelling It Out, Olivia and Alex speak with Ray, an adult social care provider doing things differently. Ray shares how his journey into social care began through friendship, football coaching and a growing awareness that many young adults leaving school or college were being offered limited, unstimulating options. This led him to create Live a Little — a community-based provision built around activity, independence, belonging and age-appropriate experiences. Together, they discuss the importance of seeing the person before the disability, moving beyond traditional day-centre models, and supporting adults to live full, active lives in their communities. Ray also reflects on his staffing philosophy, why he values genuine connection over overly clinical approaches, and how his team encourages people to take part in real experiences. The conversation also explores the difficult reality of funding, including the pressure families often face to fight for support or describe their loved one at their most vulnerable in order to secure what they need. Ray shares his hopes for the future, including expanding into respite and supported living, so that adults and their families can feel more supported as life changes. At the heart of the episode is a shared belief in presuming competence: seeing potential, offering encouragement and creating the conditions for people to achieve more than others may have expected. Follow   / everydaywithray   https://www.livealittle.org.uk/ Follow *Spelling It Out*: www.instagram.com/spellingitoutpodcast www.tiktok.com/@Spellingitoutpodcast Email: Spellingitoutpodcast@gmail.com Olivia Hockey: @oliviakatherinewellness TEFA Autism: @tefaautism Spelling It Out. Exploring spelling-based communication in the UK. *Please note:* This podcast is for information, awareness and shared experience only, and should not replace personalised professional advice or support.