TEAM MEMBERS

Meet our amazing staff team! Click or tap to find out about our dedicated ‘Smash Life’ team members, who under the leadership of Matt and Andy, have been able to support countless numbers of children and young people through empathy, holistic approach and kindness on their journey through difficulty and trauma. We are exceptionally proud of our hard working team, who all uphold the company ethos of ‘Leading from the heart’

Andy Smith

Managing Director of Smash Life

Andy realised he had a passion to engage children and young people and started working with young people as a play leader in the summer of 2000. During this time Andy had moved in with supportive lodgings carers and was studying for a BTEC in Sports Science at Shrewsbury College of Arts And Technology. Andy quickly established the importance of hard work and also had two other jobs at college working at a local restaurant as a kitchen porter and at Perfect Pizza.

Following the completion of his college course Andy Moved to Chester University to study Sports Science. Andy admits the University lifestyle and his avoidance, lack of support from the trauma he suffered as a child in care led him onto a path of self destruction. Andy failed his first year at University, but enrolled onto a Geography degree. This is where Andy flourished and realised he could not be a victim of his past and graduated with a 2:2 BA hons degree in 2006.

Following the completion of his degree and bringing an end to four years living in Chester Andy secured a job as “Support and Guidance worker” working for the Leaving Care Team at Shropshire County Council. This was where Andy would really shape his skills and enhance his desire to work with the most vulnerable young people in the community.  Andy felt that this job gave him a sense of purpose and that the young people he supported were inspired by his journey in care and positive approach. During this role Andy was also successful in landing an internship as an advisor for the Associate Parliament Group for looked After Children offering advice around policy and change for young people as well as championing the Young Persons voice.

Andy has since worked for local councils, and the NHS leading and supporting various health projects targeting at enhancing the wellbeing of children, young people and adults. Andy particually enjoyed working on a project called Telford Green Gym where he worked on a day to day basis introducing adults to exercising in green spaces enhancing their community as well as their own wellbeing. Andy admits this also had a positive effect on his own wellbeing working in a calm and therapeutic environment.

Andy then ran a project in a community in Telford, being a positive role model as a community Development Worker in a community that had been rocked by CSE and ASB. Andy found this is where he came into his own, working with different age groups, cultures and learning how to effectively educate, inspire and bring people together promoting community cohesion.

For the past 14 years Andy has worked extensively with vulnerable young people and adults, managed staff and volunteers and has recently joined forces with his brother Matt to form Smash Life utilising both their personal and professional experiences to inform, educate and inspire young people and fellow professionals through shared life mentoring, talks, training, group work and consultancy.

Andy has always maintained that working directly with young people, his love of sport, football and living a healthy lifestyle with a positive attitude has been the main constant in his life and something that acts as a form of therapy. Through Andy’s love of sport and exercise and Matt’s love of Music, Smash life are able to offer vulnerable young people a positive diversion.

In 2019 Andy alongside his brother Matt won the Shrewsbury Town Council Mayors Award for ‘making a difference to young people’ as part of Smash Life’s outstanding work within the area. Smash Life have been nominated for the National Community Organisation Award for AGE at The National Diversity Awards 2020 in association with ITV news and have been mentioned in Telford & Wrekin Council Outstanding OFSTED report in 2020.  Telford & Wrekin was the first Council outside London to go from Requires Improvement (2016) to OUTSTANDING! and the only Council in the West Midlands and North West to be OUTSTANDING!

Having sold out their Smash Life Launch Event in 2019 the Smith brothers have gone onto to be booked by Universities, Private Foster Care Organisations, Safeguarding Conferences, Schools, Colleges, Charities, Pupil Referral Units, to talk to CEO’s, managers, professionals, students and young people around the UK. These powerful talks have a clear aim, to improve practice amongst professionals and inspire the next generation of young people who may themselves suffered early childhood traumas.

Watch out for public Smash Life Talks which you can buy tickets for and see it for yourself.

Matt Smith

Director of Smash Life

Matt started working with young people as a playleader for Shropshire Council in the summer of 2000 all whilst still coming to terms with his own childhood abuse. Despite failing college because of his chaotic home life Matt then went onto achieve a 2:1 BA honours degree at Leicester De Montfort University in Youth & Community Development. Whilst at university and as part of his course Matt worked in a community project supporting adults with mental health illness’s and then at Leicester YMCA within a Lifeskills project. During this second placement Matt was offered a job at Leicester YMCA working as part of the community education division with NEET young people aged 16 -25 years of age within a hostel setting. Matt was nominated and won a ‘Making a Difference’ award by the very young people he worked alongside during this time.

Matt then successfully secured a job back at Shropshire Council and was employed as a youth worker managing various youth clubs and projects in schools within the Shrewsbury area. Matt also worked as a drugs and alcohol educator for the charity Choices, where he went and spoke/delivered workshops in many secondary schools, colleges, youth clubs to young people and adults about drugs and alcohol.

Matt has also supported The Care Council Crew in Shrewsbury, a project set up to listen and advocate for the voices of young people within the care system as well as facilitating various trips and award evenings. Matt has also been commissioned to carry out research on young people’s views and opinions on growing up in the care system and the service they have received by Shropshire Council.

Matt was then moved into a role during the economic recession to one of a Targeted Youth Worker within the Early Help Safeguarding Team, working with young people and families with complex needs from 2011 -2019. This role within Early Help main aim was to stop the breakdown of families so that young people were not placed into the care system. Matt’s role involved going into families homes, working alongside young people, parents and social services by providing a robust plan as a lead professional to empower and make positive changes and oversee and bring in other professionals expertise if they were needed. In the event of concerns being raised or the situation for a particular family getting worse an in depth knowledge of the Safeguarding system was required in order to keep young people safe.

In 2019 Matt left Shropshire Council to begin work alongside his brother Andy at Smash Life. Smash Life then went onto win the Shrewsbury Town Council Mayors Award for ‘making a difference to young people’ as part of Smash Life’s outstanding work within the area. Smash Life have been nominated for the National Community Organisation Award for AGE at The National Diversity Awards 2020 in association with ITV news and have been mentioned in Telford & Wrekin Council Outstanding OFSTED report in 2020.  Telford & Wrekin was the first Council outside London to go from Requires Improvement (2016) to OUTSTANDING! and the only Council in the West Midlands and North West to be OUTSTANDING!

Having sold out their Smash Life Launch Event in 2019 the Smith brothers have gone onto to be booked by Universities, Private Foster Care Organisations, Safeguarding Conferences, Schools, Colleges, Charities, Pupil Referral Units, to talk to CEO’s, managers, professionals, students and young people around the UK. These powerful talks have a clear aim, to improve practice amongst professionals and inspire the next generation of young people who may themselves suffered early childhood traumas.

Watch out for public Smash Life Talks which you can buy tickets for and see it for yourself.

For the past fourteen years Matt has also managed and performed as a singer/guitarist in various event party bands and has gigged extensively throughout the UK and abroad at various corporate and private occasions. In 2019 Matt’s current band Sonic Boom won ‘The Best Wedding Band in the West Midlands’ by Event Entertainment.

In 2012 Matt released his first solo EP of his own original music under his musical persona ‘Sonnetsmith’. Matt continues to write songs under Sonnetsmith and will continue to release them alongside future Smash Life videos – so watch this space!

Emma Jones

Admin / Mentor

Emma is excited to be joining us as our new administrative assistant and mentor.

She will be taking on the role to help in all areas of Smash life behind the scenes and assisting in helping Smash life as a company grow and develop.

Emma grew up in Shrewsbury and after completing her A-levels went to University in Liverpool and studied Sociology.

She spent time travelling and loved exploring the world. Back in Shrewsbury Emma worked in customer service and retail industry which she enjoyed for a time. She moved away from Shrewsbury with her now husband and they both settled in Lytham St Annes for a number of years.

Emma worked for a Primary school as a teaching assistant and the charity PIP (Play inclusion project) who were involved in helping children with disabilities or learning difficulties to be part of mainstream school life. She loved her role here, being such a big part of helping children who were struggling to make connections and supporting their parents to share in school life.

Emma supported several children in her time working at the charity in different placements of all different ages and made lifelong friends.

Back in Shrewsbury she worked in the retail industry and for a Nursery supporting children one to one with special educational needs. Emma loved being part of the children’s early lives helping with speech, play and working with other professionals.

She supported the children’s parents at a really tough time in their lives and is still in contact with some families now. She was also a big part of the team at the Nursery and working with all the staff, creating children’s activities, play, and progressing and developing children’s learning.

Emma moved up to Newcastle and Sunderland with her husband for several years after this, taking time to bring up their first child and renovating their home in Shrewsbury in this time. She found this to be a very hard time as a new mum and being away from family, not having the support or the same social networks which has given her huge empathy and understanding of the worlds of many children in care. She found fitness and her connections through this to be a lifeline.

Emma believes it’s never too late to try something new or change where you want to be.

Her passion for fitness grew even more once she had children and continued to struggle in confidence to get back to where she was, she is now a qualified Personal trainer and postnatal exercise specialist which she is continuing to grow, and hopes will be able to bring this to her mentoring in the future.

In her personal life Emma is a busy parent to two young children with her husband and they have two crazy dogs. So, you can usually find her on a long dog walk out in the muddy Shrewsbury countryside where they live. Emma spends a lot of her time at the side of a footy pitch, cricket pitch or gymnastics cheering on her kids. She believes it’s important to build their confidence and help them learn what they love, learn new skills and be part of a team. Emma enjoys being active in all areas of life whether it be a long walk, running, a bike ride or playing cricket and football with her two kids, they all love nothing more than being outside.

She also enjoys being out gardening in the summer months with the kids, baking and cooking healthy meals with them. Making time for her friends and family is central in her life whether it’s a walk, a meal out or just a simple cup of tea. Emma believes it is so important to find that time and connections when life gets busy.

Kevin Bartlett

Head of Media / Mentor

Kevin is the Smash Life Head of Media / Designer and is responsible for the logo design and branding of the company along with the design of our website, apparel, flyers and everything else media related.

An experienced musician and professional drummer, Kevin has 27 years of playing and touring experience with various bands. In 2014 he was fortunate enough to be able to play a short tour of the USA culminating in an appearance at Mike Portnoy’s (ex Dream Theater drummer) Progressive Nation at Sea and then the UK festival Tech Fest with his progressive metal band “Eumeria”.

Kevin has also appeared in Modern Drummer magazine and is a professional mixing / mastering engineer and producer. He currently mixes and masters for Chicago based Youtube sensations “Camille and Kennerly” AKA “the Harp Twins”. Kevin is also the drummer in the “Sonic Boom” band along with Smash Life Director Matt!

Drawing on his studio experience Smash Life are able to offer young people an in depth studio course or “studio experience” whereby they can visit a local Studio and under Kevin’s guidance, learn skills both in physical audio engineering and recording software’s that will enable them to write, produce and record their own music, as well as offering drumming masterclasses and drumming lessons.

Experiencing severe bullying during his school years, which at the time led him to suffer anxiety, become withdrawn and fake illnesses just to stay at home, Kevin was also pretending to his parents that he was attending school when in fact he was “skiving” to avoid the pain he was experiencing at the hands of his school bullies.

As a mentor Kevin is able to draw from this and other traumatic experiences during his adolescent years to offer a unique insight into how trust issues from a lack of confidence and fear can corrupt your thoughts, make you believe that you can’t succeed and ultimately leave you with massive insecurities. Kevin is able to meet young people, share his story and offer solutions with them that he found helpful to help identify their issues and together with them, work towards ways to overcome them. Many young people who have met Kevin have been inspired to go on to become musicians/drummers, finding that confidence within a positive activity!

Rich Shaw

Mentor

Richard is the latest addition to the Smash Life Team. His working background has been about as varied as they come including stints overseas working in the tourism sector and even positions in broadcasting, but his passion has always been with helping others leading him to a career spanning 15 years working on youth engagement projects and outdoor education.

A part time self-employed graffiti artist Richard first met Andy in 2012 when they collaborated on a youth project giving young people the chance to try their hand at graffiti art and take ownership of a community mural which still proudly stands in Arleston, Telford. Following this they have both worked together on youth sports projects, taken part in charity challenges and worked with countless young people across the borough in a range of capacities.

“I knew straight away that Smash Life was something I wanted to be involved with” says Richard, speaking about the company.

“Andy’s and Matt’s approach with young people has always been inspirational and we hold similar values and a proven history of building a rapport with individuals who are struggling in life and do not readily access support.”

“Smash Life’s ethos is simple, always be positive, always support and do not make judgements – try simply to understand what people are going through.”

“I find the Smash Life mentality so powerful, not just for those I support, but also for my own life.  Since becoming involved I am much more self-aware, more at ease with difficulties I have experienced in my own past and much more motivated to be the best person I could possibly be – a mind-set which I try to share with all the young people I work with.”

Speaking on what other attributes he brings to the project Richard is keen to emphasise the importance of having goals and positive past times to help you in life

“I am heavily involved in competition sport and using my body to its full potential empowers me to look after it. I am also a huge advocate of nature-therapy and engaging with the wilderness for well being”

“Teaching people of all ages to respect nature and to get outside and be active are about the best things you can do to look after your physical and mental health – while I cater for the needs of every individual I work with I like to encourage this positive message above all others.”

Lee Murad

Filmographer / Mentor

Lee Murad is an experienced film maker from the North West of England who has been producing films across the UK and abroad for the last twenty years. Lee is also very experienced working in the wedding sector and most weekends you can find him travelling across the UK to film those special moments for newly-wed couples. Lee first started out producing his own short films and music videos after he graduated from Liverpool University where he completed a Film and Media studies degree.

Lee has always had a great passion for film and says: “I always wanted to be able to share my experiences as a film maker with young people to pass on my knowledge and to inspire them. When I was given the opportunity to work in the education sector I found myself working alongside children from a primary and secondary school age. I was asked to produce films on topics like Anti-Bullying and Drug & Substance misuse from a young person’s perspective and it really gave me a sense of purpose”. Lee also ran a film festival at the end of a school year which showcased young people’s own work on the big screen. Over a ten year period over six hundred short films were shown at a local cinema to give young people the full cinematic experience. Lee has found working with children and young people such a rewarding process for him personally and it has allowed young people to express themselves positively through film, given them a chance to act or direct and to help give some of them self-confidence through a positive activity.

Lee cites directors Stanley Kubrick, Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola as some of his favourite film makers and is an avid film goer. Lees filming style has been described by those who have booked him as cinematic and emotive as he uses a range of cameras, drones and angles to get those all-important shots.

Lee is available to be booked specifically to come into your educational setting and produce short films with young people/professionals on a range of identified issues. Lee can also be booked to film a special event or occasion (e.g. An Award Ceremony) for you and then edit the footage afterwards so you have a professional memory of it captured forever.

Janine Evett

Counsellor

Janine qualified as a counsellor in October 2020 and continued her learning journey as a psychology undergraduate. Her interest in mental health comes from having her own mental health struggles, which peaked after the birth of her second child in 2014.

This was when Janine’s transition really began, as she developed a hunger for working in the helping profession. Janine became disillusioned by her job in the city of London, leaving it behind to work in a secondary school as a teacher assistant to children with special educational needs. Janine did this while also embarking on a 4-year training course to provide talking therapy to adults.

Having had counselling herself, Janine understands that the idea of it can feel strange and daunting, but she also knows that if you can commit yourself to changing, you will. Janine believes counselling works, because it gives you the time and space to explore your problem in a safe, judgement free and private environment. Janine has found the most skilled counsellors are not necessarily those who have the most experience or training (although these things are also important), it’s those who show the most warmth and enable clients to feel truly accepted – so this is what she aims for in her practice.

Janine’s service is in a relaxed, informal setting. This is what she says about her approach;

“Counselling is also a bit like someone holding up a mirror against your problem. This can be challenging as it can reflect some painful truths, but it also helps bring you clarity and process the difficult thoughts and feelings that weigh on you. Nothing can change the past – but talking things through can help you to make sense of your story and heal old wounds that affect you in negative ways in the present.

Despite the benefits, many people are put off by the idea of speaking to a supposed ‘expert’. Part of this is because of the way counsellors are depicted in the media as unfriendly, unapproachable and judgemental – which is absolutely the opposite of what counselling is about! I am passionate about offering a service that is flexible, tailored to your needs and helps to bring real, meaningful change.”

Janine works in an integrative way, which means she draws from a number of psychological approaches with the aim of walking alongside you and supporting you as you uncover your story.

Gone are the days when you have to fear the ‘men in white coats! So, I encourage you to take a brave step towards feeling better. Why not reach out to me today? You can contact me through Smash Life, or feel free to browse my website at bedrockcounselling.co.uk – I look forward to hearing from you”

Janine

Jane Evans

Mentor

Jane has had quite a varied work life and started work at 16 in an office, moving on to selling houses for many years.  She is a firm believer in lifelong learning and that it has to be at the right time for you. So, at aged 30 after having two children, Jane went to University to study Health & Social Care and volunteer for a small charity supporting families with under five-year olds.

She then went on to work at “Stay” and supported young people (16-28 year olds) who were previously homeless, to live in supported housing and then their own tenancy, teaching life skills and developing confidence to live an independent life. Jane then went to work in Community Education at TCAT, this supported her belief that people are ready at different times in their life to study and that we all study differently and its “okay to try different things”.

While at TCAT Jane started the process with my husband, to become a Foster Carer for Telford and Wrekin Council, and has been approved as such for over 7 years, offering a loving home to children of all ages.  Fostering was something Jane always wanted to do.  She felt like they had the emotional capacity, space and love to offer a young person a supportive and stable home. She and her husband are still in contact with children who have left, and have a teenager with them now, who is very much part of the family.

It’s been wonderful to be able to offer these young people opportunities and to be their greatest supporter and advocate when needed.  It is not always easy, but Jane firmly believes that children living  “in care” deserve the same opportunities in life and she enjoys helping them reach their potential. As a Foster Carer Jane has been able to undertake short courses in bereavement, working with birth parents, safeguarding, drug and alcohol awareness and many more.

Jane’s previous longer-term role was working with Young Carers in Telford, where she ran the weekly Youth Club for over four years which provided respite for around 40 young people each week and offered activities in the holidays (which they ordinarily wouldn’t have been able to attend due to their caring role).  She loved working with the young people, seeing their progression over the years and supporting them through difficult times.

While working with the Young Carers, Jane first encountered Smash Life and loved the sound of the work that Andy and Matt were delivering.  Jane says: “I didn’t hesitate in booking them to deliver a motivational talk at first and then to deliver a day’s workshop to the young people.  I was blown away by the sessions they offered and loved the warmth, fun and understanding they offered the group.  The kids really looked up to them.  I am hugely excited to be part of the team”.

In her personal life, Jane is a parent to three teenagers and has two crazy cocker spaniels, so can often be found deep in mud on a dog walk. She has competed in the “Walk a 1000 Miles” challenge for a couple of years; enjoys baking, socialising with friends and sometimes crafting. Jane has spent many years at the side of a pitch (both rugby and football) and was a kid’s rugby manager for over 10 years.  In her own time, she is also friends to a young girl who is a carer for her mom.  Jane says: “I take her out to undertake fun activities that her caring role would normally prevent her from being able to do so”.

Dee Duell

Mentor

Dee studied Performing Arts at College but soon realised she wanted to be behind the scenes in the industry, so after some consideration went down to live in London at 17 years old to study TV and Film Makeup Artistry.

Dee at 18 years old then went on  to start her successful career in TV makeup working on such shows as This Morning on ITV, being a personal makeup Artist to a well known presenter and also working on hundreds of other shows and projects over the years.

Dee always felt part of her role as a makeup artist was to listen to those that sat in her chair and be “therapist” and loved this side of her job. She was always being told she had such a kind and caring personality and a calm presence.

During her mid-twenties Dee made the move back to Shropshire after experiencing some tough times personally. She was taking some time out and that time turned into years where she gave her all to family life helping to raise her step sons and look after her family.

Dee,  having had her own struggles has always been a big believer in self help and knowing that whilst times may be hard we can always find a way out and there is no shame in asking for help.

Dee is a firm believer in doing the hard inner work to heal and with the right tools and help anyone can turn their lives around.

Dee has worked extremely hard to create a business for herself, taking herself on courses, training and utilizing her previous skills of makeup she has created a makeup and beauty business which she loves. She has a true passion for making people feel good about themselves inside and out.

These last few years have challenged Dee physically, mentally and emotionally but she has come out stronger and more resilient than ever and has developed even more understanding and empathy for people going through hard times.

Dee is incredibly passionate about health and fitness and believes that exercise is something that has saved her in those hard times.

She loves lacing up her trainers and getting out for a run to clear the mind and believes the outdoors is a great old lifter. She also loves getting in the gym to strength train and encourages people to find a form of movement they enjoy, as it is integral to helping cope with stress, release those endorphins and is such a big act of self care.

Dee loves spending her spare time seeing her family and friends, going on walks and exercising.

Just over a year ago Dee came across Smash Life and was drawn to the positivity of the company and their message. She was in awe of what they do for young people.

It started to become apparent that with Dee’s life lessons, empathy and caring personality that being part of the Smash Life team would be a great fit and she literally jumped at the chance to get on board.

Dee believes that all kids should have a loving and caring childhood but unfortunately that isn’t always the case but with Smash Life they can know that there are people who care, want to listen, support them and guide them.

Sarah O’Neill

Mentor

Sarah struggled through her school years, she left school like lots of young adults. After trying a college course, Sarah instead chose to gain paid employment and began working for a local retailer. Sarah has now worked there for the past 25 years in various roles including as a manager.

Sarah has been a foster carer for a number of years completing courses such as therapeutic behaviour, safe guarding, along with some disability courses. Sarah has learnt that by being open and honest with all children that they will open up, and have those moments of “can I talk to you”

Sarah has spent many years supporting her own children with their sports, driving them around the country for trials and matches in rugby and basketball. A big thing for Sarah and bringing her children up was to ensure she was supportive and that her children have the freedom to express themselves and be able to talk about emotions.

In her spare time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her friends, and family, having game nights, meals out and going on holiday. Sarah enjoys travelling the country to see new places, she has found she enjoys camping, be it in the 1972 VW camper or a tent. Sarah also has recently found her love for baking again.

Sarah believes that everyone should be listened to and deserves to be given the chance to express themselves.

Billy Jones

Mentor / Coach

Billy Attended Crowmoor Primary School and Belvidere Secondary School in Shrewsbury before Playing professional football from the age of 16.

Billy is currently in his 18th year as a professional Footballer and lists Crewe Alexandra, Preston North End, West Bromwich Albion, Sunderland AFC and Rotherham United as the clubs he has played for also playing under some of the top managers in this country.

Billy is a great role model for any aspiring children looking to pursue a career in the sporting arena and is proof that hard work, dedication, sacrifice, realisations and resilience are key ingredients to making your dream a reality.  Billy is often described as Professional in his approach by many ex team mates proving that you have to be put the hard work in if you want to realise your potential.

Billy has been a great help to us since our formation, meeting a number of children, helping with group work,  speaking at events and also giving away freebies to some of the children we support who may need a helping hand,  some extra words of encouragement or guidance. Encouraged and supported by a loving family growing up Billy understands the importance of having someone who “believes in you” and understands how this can be the bedrock to help you succeed.

The values that Billy lives by made it very easy for us to offer him a position as an ambassador as he is someone who lives by the values we promote and certainly engages and inspires many children looking to emulate his journey.

We are delighted to have Billy on board and his experience, advice and guidance will inspire many children and young people.

Tayler Walters

Mentor

Tayler is the latest addition to our team.

A creative force and a Care Experienced Person (CEP), Tayler has been making an impact in the foster care space for several years. Her work includes creating a foster care-inspired documentary, appearing on BBC Breakfast, and featuring on S4C’s evening news.

Having spent 14 years in the care system, Tayler is driven by a deep passion for change. A quote she lives by is, “Be who you needed when you were younger.” Her efforts to reshape the narrative around care experience are gaining attention, and her name is becoming well-known in the space. Tayler is a firm believer in the importance of positive role models for children and speaks openly about the stereotypes she has faced as someone who grew up in care. One common remark she hears is: “You don’t look like you grew up in the care system.” Her response? “What am I supposed to look like, then?”

Tayler is determined to challenge society’s misconceptions, reminding us that many young people in care are there through no fault of their own. She is working to change the narrative, both by collaborating with professionals and by connecting with young people directly.

Before joining Smash Life, Tayler worked as a Television Researcher on shows for Channel 4 and S4C. While pursuing her TV career, she also launched her own podcast, Tay Does Life, which focuses on mental and physical health as well as her personal journey through foster care. Since its launch in February 2023, the podcast has gained a loyal following across the UK, Europe, and the US.

Academically, Tayler earned a First-Class Joint Honours degree in Film, Television & Scenography/Theatre Design from Aberystwyth University. Her final film project, includes a documentary on the educational challenges faced by care leavers going to university, it was later screened at a major fostering conference in Wales, shedding light on the critical link between education and care-experienced young people.

Beyond her creative achievements, Tayler is an accomplished long-distance runner. She completed the London Marathon in 2021, raising funds for the NSPCC, and is always looking for her next race or adventure.

We are happy to have Tayler join the Smash Life team!

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💥Smash Life💥

Last week Andy & Matt had the pleasure of travelling to Essex and delivering a keynote / training to @affinity_fostering foster carers and professionals.
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We can hand on heart say this was on of the best welcomes and care we have received during our formation of Smash Life - making us feel welcome, relaxed and looked after / all the things we talk about that we should roll model to children. 
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We loved the energy in the room, from participating in our interactive sections, honest conversations to everyone being available, open and honest - people were invested and it showed.
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We hope our vulnerability engaged and inspired and it was also lovely to spend the evening with Affinity & all the foster carers where the conversations, interaction and fun continued.
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A huge thank you to Vicky who invited us, liaised with us and ensured we were looked after - we appreciate it.
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Hopefully we will meet again in 2025
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A day to remember and one to reinforce our #leadingfromtheheart message
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“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
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smashlifeuk.com
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#mentor #speakers #trainers #traumainformed #fostering #fostercare #vulnerability #livedexperience #socialcare #children #semh #connection #inspire #togetherstronger #affinityfostering #smashlifeuk #leadingfromtheheart #childrenincare
💥Smash Life💥

FEEDBACK 

We were delighted to receive this mentoring feedback from a lovely Assistant head at a primary school we visit. 
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Jane is a warm and caring human with a brilliant relational approach - she is child centred and this shows in her day to day work with children in a range of primary & secondary educational settings 
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We also like to have “radiators” on board working for us - humans that will be magnets 🧲 for the children we care for every day - children need to KNOW and feel our energy and care - this is a non negotiable for us. 
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We firmly believe that “A steady presence builds lasting connections” and that’s when we see huge changes and the children begin to Believe, Achieve and Become the best versions of themselves. Our presence may also be felt in the wider school setting which is important as we all need to “work together” 
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We love working with schools, it’s amazing to be creative and find new ways to connect with children. If you interested in us supporting children in your school or organisation please email info@smashlifeuk.com - we can offer bespoke packages ranging from 1 hour to full day children SEMH support, group sessions and group work.
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“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
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smashlifeuk.com
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#mentor #feedback #support #semh #schools #pastoral #smashlifeuk #givingback #leadingfromtheheart #connection #trauma #aces #learning #personaldecelopment #mentoring #alternativeprovison #shropshire #uk #shrewsbury #telford #inspire
💥Keynote Feedback💥

We had the privilege last month to be invited to travel to Middlesbrough and deliver a keynote for the councils social Care Practice week. 
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We delivered our post 16 keynote “Rock And Roll Years” -  A talk full of vulnerability & honesty. We discussed about how it felt as “care leavers & HUMAN BEINGS after a childhood of abuse, neglect, rejection, judgement and shame - the reality is this ALL came out in a number of ways which often brought more rejection and shame - no one can hide it forever. 
.
.
So what did we need during this time? who did we need? What did people overlook? How could we have been supported better? 
.
.
We covered so much in an hour mainly from a lived experience perspective and we also tried to make the hour as informative, fun, engaging and thought provoking as possible.
.
.
We want to express a huge thanks to Middlesborough Council for the lovely welcome and ensuring we felt cared for and looked after during our visit.
.
.
Post 16 support, care leavers support is something we are extremely passionate about - for more information about this keynote and our training package please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
.
Sometimes people overlook the basics and everything can become so complicated in jargon, meetings and delivery - always remember to lead with the heart, be curious and believe in EVERY ONE you care for / support. You just may be the light that they need 💙
.
.
“Are you leading from the heart ❤️ or an agenda?”
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#post16 #talk #leavingcare #socialcare #abuse #trauma #neglect #independence #homes #childrenscarehome #childhood #aces #love #support #guidance #livedexperience #shropshire #uk #keynotespeaker #stafftraining #leadingfromtheheart #socialcare #keynote #practiceweek #uk
💥Smash Life💥

The POWER of Smash Life 💙⚽️❤️

A young man we mentor came to play for Smash Life FC in the summer 
.
.
This week he told us that the game he played in for us was his first ever game of football and he was really nervous but we welcomed him, looked after him, and encouraged him.
.
.
Since this game he has signed for a team in Shrewsbury and is playing every Sunday 
.
.
For us these are REAL human outcomes that are going to equip children with the skills they need as they grow up 
.
.
To many people are searching for complicated, intrusive ways to connect - often forgetting that simple CONNECTION is always the best ingredient….
.
.
We don’t know it all but having lived a childhood in care and working in social care we KNOW how to connect - what we wanted as children that many adults struggled to give (time, attention, patience, fun) hasn’t changed and it’s vital ingredients our wonderful team pour into sessions EVERY day.
.
.
We set up Smash Life FC to be a community, a springboard and to bring some FUN into social care 
.
.
Look out 👀 for some more games next year and if we receive funding to help us we will look to provide weekly coaching sessions.

This conversation with this young man made us smile - isn’t this what it’s all about 🤷‍♂️💙⚽️
.
.

“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#comnunity #cep #lesstalkmoreaction #leadingfromtheheart #wellbeing #togetherness #sport #smashlifefc #football #wellbeing #teamwork #socialchange #socialcare #semh #livedexperience
💥Smash Life💥

Last week we had the absolute pleasure of going to deliver a training to the fantastic carers at Keswick Care. We were invited back after delivering training a couple of years ago and once again we had such a great day with everyone. 
.
.
We delivered our “Through The Eyes Of A Child In Care” training and make the day interactive, informative, fun and educational. We were able to have open and honest conversations, educate from our personal and professional experiences and also being in some fun games and challenges to help promote the importance of building that connection - being CREATIVE / referring to your “why” - “it’s ALL in your approach”
.
.
We were joined by our #CEP friend @tay_does_life_podcast who was able to join in the conversations and delivered a really poignant poem reading at the end.
.
.
We were able to offer some advice and strategies - things that work for our organisation and strategies that many of the new carers can take forward in their practice. 
.
.
If your supporting and caring for children - do not put a time frame on anything - just be consistent, care, connect, listen, be proactive, highlight their thoughts wishes and feelings and show an interest in what they love - as we say “it’s ALL in your approach” 
.
.
Keswick Care - thanks so much for having us we loved the energy.
.
.
If you want to know more about our talks and training services please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#training #talks #smashlifeuk #aces #trauma #abuse #careexperienced #cep #instagood #carehome #approach #caring #resilience #believe #showingyoucare #children #socialcare #pastoral #knowingyourwhy #makingadifference #understandingbehaviour #speakers #mentors #trainers #liveevents #wellbeing #childcentred #leadingfromtheheart
🎙️Smash Life Podcast Trailer 🎙️
.
Here is our very first official Smash Life podcast trailer! 
.
The full episode featuring ‘Wolfie’ aka @kevinhorakofficial will be released and able to watch on our official Smash Life YouTube Channel. Wolfie talks about his educational experiences, running a gym, working with A List Celebrities in the bodyguarding industry, owning a record label and becoming an author ✍️ 
.
If you have any guests you think we should have on our podcast in the future then please mention / tag them in the comments below! We would love to hear your ideas!
.
Special thanks to @harryfisherfilms / @highlyflammable.studio / and of course our head of media @bartldrum 
.
We have just started this journey and we can’t wait to film future episodes ! 
.
Info@smashlifeuk.com 
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
#smashlifeuk #leadingfromtheheart #podcast #podcasting #podcastersofinstagram #shropshirelife #ukpodcast #wolfie #bodyguards #security #celebritygossip #conversation #conversations #lifestory #livedexperience #storytimes #interviews #interview #questionsandanswers #funexperience #videography #learningfromothers #authorsofinstagram #authorscommunity #recordlabels #recordlabelowner #closeprotectionservices  #listeningskills #éducation #trailers
💥Smash Life💥

Training “A Sibling Perspective” 

“An estimated 37% of children with a sibling – that is 20,000 children – are separated from a sibling when placed in care” - Children’s Commissioner 2023
.
.
This is stark reading. We ALL know that a sibling relationship can be a protective factor for children in care and it can often bring:

💙 A strong emotional connection, with an emphasis on love and joy
💙Stability and The importance of shared experiences 
💙Mutual support to one another, both practical and emotional
.
.
Put simply a SIBLING BOND is all some children may have which is a LIFELONG BOND - this makes it extremely important for us ALL to help promote this bond, and help children obtain and understand the knowledge, importance and skills to keep this special bond when they reach adulthood and naturally the support leaves them. 
.
.
As brothers growing up on the UK care system we fully understand the importance over this bond and we also KNOW due to failings from adults around us as children the work we have had to put in as adults to repair this bond. A bond that many children who love with loving parents are role modelled how to nurture during childhood. We support many siblings that are in care NOW often listening to them but also giving open, honest, practical advice and guidance on a bond which can and should be lifelong. 
.
.
Our training explores the complexities of the sibling bond in care, how we can listen and support children that experience separation, how we can work with wider professionals, carers to help repair and enhance that bond and how it’s up to us ALL NOW to equip children with the LIFE SKILLS they need to keep this precious bond and thrive as siblings when they become adults. 
.
.
Children in care understand how the sibling bond brings a sense of security, love and support they may have lost elsewhere - it’s up to us as caring adults to nurture and support this important bond 
.
.
If you would like more information on our #leadingfromtheheart siblings in care training please contact info@smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together” 
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com
💥Smash Life💥

We are ABSOLUTELY buzzing to see a young man we supported for a few years absolutely SMASHING LIFE in his new Bricklaying Apprenticeship role with local company @tgbrickworkandconstructionltd 
.
.
This young man has earn’t this opportunity and we have no doubt will continue to push himself to believe and achieve in life. We have no doubt that he will be under the best possible guidance, mentorship and care with @tgbrickworkandconstructionltd - we have already heard the conversations they are having and it’s amazing to hear a company that is invested in the person and will try and help him navigate through life but also push him to be the best he can be - something many care leavers often need more support and guidance with.
.
.
Big smiles from us and well done to the young man 🧍‍♂️ “it’s the choices you make not the chances your take that determines your destiny” 
.
.
We can’t wait to visit and hopefully one day he can build us a new Smash Life HQ 😜 
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#happy #success #givingback #support #semh #construction #brickwork #invest #community #mentality #socialcare #childcentered #believe #mentors #speakers #trainers #happy #shropshire #intagood
💥Smash Life💥

We Really do appreciate this feedback from @ShropCouncil @ShropVirtualSch regarding  our “woodland experience” for children 

We BELIEVE in not just talking about connection and relational approaches BUT modelling this when it matters the most - SO the children FEEL it. A connection is earned through repetition and the children feeling safe, secure, valued and around adults invested in them. 

We LOVE what we do 💙
.
.
For more information on our woodland experiences please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#leadingfromtheheart
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#outdoors #nature #fun #engagement #connection #biophilia #wellbeing #pace #approaches #impact #feeling #cep #livedexperience #woodland #youth #socialcare #experience #childled #mentoring #events #training #bespoke #workshops #shropshire
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💥Smash Life💥

Last week Andy & Matt had the pleasure of travelling to Essex and delivering a keynote / training to @affinity_fostering foster carers and professionals.
.
.
We can hand on heart say this was on of the best welcomes and care we have received during our formation of Smash Life - making us feel welcome, relaxed and looked after / all the things we talk about that we should roll model to children. 
.
.
We loved the energy in the room, from participating in our interactive sections, honest conversations to everyone being available, open and honest - people were invested and it showed.
.
.
We hope our vulnerability engaged and inspired and it was also lovely to spend the evening with Affinity & all the foster carers where the conversations, interaction and fun continued.
.
.
A huge thank you to Vicky who invited us, liaised with us and ensured we were looked after - we appreciate it.
.
.
Hopefully we will meet again in 2025
.
.
A day to remember and one to reinforce our #leadingfromtheheart message
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#mentor #speakers #trainers #traumainformed #fostering #fostercare #vulnerability #livedexperience #socialcare #children #semh #connection #inspire #togetherstronger #affinityfostering #smashlifeuk #leadingfromtheheart #childrenincare
💥Smash Life💥

FEEDBACK 

We were delighted to receive this mentoring feedback from a lovely Assistant head at a primary school we visit. 
.
.
Jane is a warm and caring human with a brilliant relational approach - she is child centred and this shows in her day to day work with children in a range of primary & secondary educational settings 
.
.
We also like to have “radiators” on board working for us - humans that will be magnets 🧲 for the children we care for every day - children need to KNOW and feel our energy and care - this is a non negotiable for us. 
.
.
We firmly believe that “A steady presence builds lasting connections” and that’s when we see huge changes and the children begin to Believe, Achieve and Become the best versions of themselves. Our presence may also be felt in the wider school setting which is important as we all need to “work together” 
.
.
We love working with schools, it’s amazing to be creative and find new ways to connect with children. If you interested in us supporting children in your school or organisation please email info@smashlifeuk.com - we can offer bespoke packages ranging from 1 hour to full day children SEMH support, group sessions and group work.
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#mentor #feedback #support #semh #schools #pastoral #smashlifeuk #givingback #leadingfromtheheart #connection #trauma #aces #learning #personaldecelopment #mentoring #alternativeprovison #shropshire #uk #shrewsbury #telford #inspire
💥Keynote Feedback💥

We had the privilege last month to be invited to travel to Middlesbrough and deliver a keynote for the councils social Care Practice week. 
.
.
We delivered our post 16 keynote “Rock And Roll Years” -  A talk full of vulnerability & honesty. We discussed about how it felt as “care leavers & HUMAN BEINGS after a childhood of abuse, neglect, rejection, judgement and shame - the reality is this ALL came out in a number of ways which often brought more rejection and shame - no one can hide it forever. 
.
.
So what did we need during this time? who did we need? What did people overlook? How could we have been supported better? 
.
.
We covered so much in an hour mainly from a lived experience perspective and we also tried to make the hour as informative, fun, engaging and thought provoking as possible.
.
.
We want to express a huge thanks to Middlesborough Council for the lovely welcome and ensuring we felt cared for and looked after during our visit.
.
.
Post 16 support, care leavers support is something we are extremely passionate about - for more information about this keynote and our training package please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
.
Sometimes people overlook the basics and everything can become so complicated in jargon, meetings and delivery - always remember to lead with the heart, be curious and believe in EVERY ONE you care for / support. You just may be the light that they need 💙
.
.
“Are you leading from the heart ❤️ or an agenda?”
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#post16 #talk #leavingcare #socialcare #abuse #trauma #neglect #independence #homes #childrenscarehome #childhood #aces #love #support #guidance #livedexperience #shropshire #uk #keynotespeaker #stafftraining #leadingfromtheheart #socialcare #keynote #practiceweek #uk
💥Smash Life💥

The POWER of Smash Life 💙⚽️❤️

A young man we mentor came to play for Smash Life FC in the summer 
.
.
This week he told us that the game he played in for us was his first ever game of football and he was really nervous but we welcomed him, looked after him, and encouraged him.
.
.
Since this game he has signed for a team in Shrewsbury and is playing every Sunday 
.
.
For us these are REAL human outcomes that are going to equip children with the skills they need as they grow up 
.
.
To many people are searching for complicated, intrusive ways to connect - often forgetting that simple CONNECTION is always the best ingredient….
.
.
We don’t know it all but having lived a childhood in care and working in social care we KNOW how to connect - what we wanted as children that many adults struggled to give (time, attention, patience, fun) hasn’t changed and it’s vital ingredients our wonderful team pour into sessions EVERY day.
.
.
We set up Smash Life FC to be a community, a springboard and to bring some FUN into social care 
.
.
Look out 👀 for some more games next year and if we receive funding to help us we will look to provide weekly coaching sessions.

This conversation with this young man made us smile - isn’t this what it’s all about 🤷‍♂️💙⚽️
.
.

“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#comnunity #cep #lesstalkmoreaction #leadingfromtheheart #wellbeing #togetherness #sport #smashlifefc #football #wellbeing #teamwork #socialchange #socialcare #semh #livedexperience
💥Smash Life💥

Last week we had the absolute pleasure of going to deliver a training to the fantastic carers at Keswick Care. We were invited back after delivering training a couple of years ago and once again we had such a great day with everyone. 
.
.
We delivered our “Through The Eyes Of A Child In Care” training and make the day interactive, informative, fun and educational. We were able to have open and honest conversations, educate from our personal and professional experiences and also being in some fun games and challenges to help promote the importance of building that connection - being CREATIVE / referring to your “why” - “it’s ALL in your approach”
.
.
We were joined by our #CEP friend @tay_does_life_podcast who was able to join in the conversations and delivered a really poignant poem reading at the end.
.
.
We were able to offer some advice and strategies - things that work for our organisation and strategies that many of the new carers can take forward in their practice. 
.
.
If your supporting and caring for children - do not put a time frame on anything - just be consistent, care, connect, listen, be proactive, highlight their thoughts wishes and feelings and show an interest in what they love - as we say “it’s ALL in your approach” 
.
.
Keswick Care - thanks so much for having us we loved the energy.
.
.
If you want to know more about our talks and training services please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#training #talks #smashlifeuk #aces #trauma #abuse #careexperienced #cep #instagood #carehome #approach #caring #resilience #believe #showingyoucare #children #socialcare #pastoral #knowingyourwhy #makingadifference #understandingbehaviour #speakers #mentors #trainers #liveevents #wellbeing #childcentred #leadingfromtheheart
🎙️Smash Life Podcast Trailer 🎙️
.
Here is our very first official Smash Life podcast trailer! 
.
The full episode featuring ‘Wolfie’ aka @kevinhorakofficial will be released and able to watch on our official Smash Life YouTube Channel. Wolfie talks about his educational experiences, running a gym, working with A List Celebrities in the bodyguarding industry, owning a record label and becoming an author ✍️ 
.
If you have any guests you think we should have on our podcast in the future then please mention / tag them in the comments below! We would love to hear your ideas!
.
Special thanks to @harryfisherfilms / @highlyflammable.studio / and of course our head of media @bartldrum 
.
We have just started this journey and we can’t wait to film future episodes ! 
.
Info@smashlifeuk.com 
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
#smashlifeuk #leadingfromtheheart #podcast #podcasting #podcastersofinstagram #shropshirelife #ukpodcast #wolfie #bodyguards #security #celebritygossip #conversation #conversations #lifestory #livedexperience #storytimes #interviews #interview #questionsandanswers #funexperience #videography #learningfromothers #authorsofinstagram #authorscommunity #recordlabels #recordlabelowner #closeprotectionservices  #listeningskills #éducation #trailers
💥Smash Life💥

Training “A Sibling Perspective” 

“An estimated 37% of children with a sibling – that is 20,000 children – are separated from a sibling when placed in care” - Children’s Commissioner 2023
.
.
This is stark reading. We ALL know that a sibling relationship can be a protective factor for children in care and it can often bring:

💙 A strong emotional connection, with an emphasis on love and joy
💙Stability and The importance of shared experiences 
💙Mutual support to one another, both practical and emotional
.
.
Put simply a SIBLING BOND is all some children may have which is a LIFELONG BOND - this makes it extremely important for us ALL to help promote this bond, and help children obtain and understand the knowledge, importance and skills to keep this special bond when they reach adulthood and naturally the support leaves them. 
.
.
As brothers growing up on the UK care system we fully understand the importance over this bond and we also KNOW due to failings from adults around us as children the work we have had to put in as adults to repair this bond. A bond that many children who love with loving parents are role modelled how to nurture during childhood. We support many siblings that are in care NOW often listening to them but also giving open, honest, practical advice and guidance on a bond which can and should be lifelong. 
.
.
Our training explores the complexities of the sibling bond in care, how we can listen and support children that experience separation, how we can work with wider professionals, carers to help repair and enhance that bond and how it’s up to us ALL NOW to equip children with the LIFE SKILLS they need to keep this precious bond and thrive as siblings when they become adults. 
.
.
Children in care understand how the sibling bond brings a sense of security, love and support they may have lost elsewhere - it’s up to us as caring adults to nurture and support this important bond 
.
.
If you would like more information on our #leadingfromtheheart siblings in care training please contact info@smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together” 
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com
💥Smash Life💥

We are ABSOLUTELY buzzing to see a young man we supported for a few years absolutely SMASHING LIFE in his new Bricklaying Apprenticeship role with local company @tgbrickworkandconstructionltd 
.
.
This young man has earn’t this opportunity and we have no doubt will continue to push himself to believe and achieve in life. We have no doubt that he will be under the best possible guidance, mentorship and care with @tgbrickworkandconstructionltd - we have already heard the conversations they are having and it’s amazing to hear a company that is invested in the person and will try and help him navigate through life but also push him to be the best he can be - something many care leavers often need more support and guidance with.
.
.
Big smiles from us and well done to the young man 🧍‍♂️ “it’s the choices you make not the chances your take that determines your destiny” 
.
.
We can’t wait to visit and hopefully one day he can build us a new Smash Life HQ 😜 
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
www.smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#happy #success #givingback #support #semh #construction #brickwork #invest #community #mentality #socialcare #childcentered #believe #mentors #speakers #trainers #happy #shropshire #intagood
💥Smash Life💥

We Really do appreciate this feedback from @ShropCouncil @ShropVirtualSch regarding  our “woodland experience” for children 

We BELIEVE in not just talking about connection and relational approaches BUT modelling this when it matters the most - SO the children FEEL it. A connection is earned through repetition and the children feeling safe, secure, valued and around adults invested in them. 

We LOVE what we do 💙
.
.
For more information on our woodland experiences please email info@smashlifeuk.com
.
.
#leadingfromtheheart
.
.
“Overcoming Life’s Hurdles Together”
.
.
smashlifeuk.com 
.
.
#outdoors #nature #fun #engagement #connection #biophilia #wellbeing #pace #approaches #impact #feeling #cep #livedexperience #woodland #youth #socialcare #experience #childled #mentoring #events #training #bespoke #workshops #shropshire
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