Episode 44... and Debra and Peter’s 44th birthday, right? 🎂 (well, not quite, but close enough 😉).This week’s conversation covers three big themes in the charity world:First up, party political conferences. Are they really worth the time and money for charities, or just expensive networking sessions filled with bad white wine? Debra and Peter share why these events can feel unwelcoming, tribal, and sometimes downright pointless.Next, they explore a bold move: five funders teaming up on a £15 million initiative to tackle child poverty. Is this the future of grantmaking or just a well-meaning experiment with some inevitable hiccups? Peter reflects on lessons from his Lottery days, and Debra unpacks the risks and rewards of genuine co-funding.Finally, the spotlight turns to the power and responsibility of funders. From local grant officers who truly know their communities, to the tension between AI automation and the irreplaceable human touch, they discuss how funders can use their voice and infrastructure to make lasting change.It’s a mix of sharp insights, humour, and a reminder that sometimes the best birthday treat is just a pizza in front of the telly.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 43! Debra and Peter dive into some of the toughest issues facing the UK charity sector and wider society.They begin with Peter’s joy at Somerset’s cricket triumph before quickly turning to more serious matters: the protests around Donald Trump’s state visit, the disturbing rise of racism and anti-immigration sentiment, and how politicians and the media fuel unfounded fears. Debra argues strongly against framing prejudice as ‘legitimate concerns’, and both hosts reflect on the stark contrast between attitudes to Ukrainian refugees and asylum seekers from elsewhere.The conversation then shifts to leadership. How long should a chief executive stay in post? What’s the difference between a tough job and one that makes you miserable? Debra shares frank stories about her early years at DSC, including staff hostility, and gives practical advice on tackling bullying—whether from above, below or sideways.Plus: some sharp words on government reshuffles, and why constant ministerial change makes life harder for charities.What do you think: are immigration fears being mishandled, and how long is too long in a leadership role? Let us know in the comments.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnlineMore Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.ukPodcast Producer: José Blazquez

Episode 42 takes us from Somerset cricket glory to some of the sector’s toughest debates.Peter kicks off with tales of nail-biting wins and rubbing shoulders with cricket legends at a South African charity event. But the conversation soon widens to Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams and the unseen, everyday role of charities in keeping society ticking.From there, Debra and Peter tackle flags and patriotism. What do symbols really mean? When does pride tip into exclusion, and why do flags make some people feel celebrated while leaving others intimidated? Expect frank exchanges on history, nationalism and belonging.Then it’s on to Prince Harry’s £1m donation to Children in Need. Does motivation matter, or should charities simply welcome the funds? This leads into a wider exploration of “tainted money”, trustee responsibilities and the Charity Commission’s rules on refusing donations.It’s an episode full of sharp contrasts: cricket and community, pride and discomfort, generosity and suspicion. And as ever, Debra and Peter bring warmth, candour and a touch of humour to the hardest questions in the sector.YouTube Subscribe: https://YouTube.com/@DSCOnline More Debra Allcock Tyler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-allcock-tyler-8013214/ More Peter Wanless: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sir-peter-wanless-b43aa372/Produced by: Directory of Social Change https://www.dsc.org.uk Podcast Producer: Justin Martin