Woman's Hour - TopPodcast.com

Latest Episodes:

Weekend Woman's Hour: The award-winning composer Shirley J Thompson, Domestic Violence Prevention & Managing our data Jun 19, 2021

Composer Shirley J. Thompson is the first woman in Europe to have composed and conducted a symphony within the last 40 years. She tells us about her new work Emanation, which she’s written for the disabled-led ensemble BSO. Dame Darcey Bussell Former Principal of The Royal Ballet & Strictly Judge, President of the RAD & creator of Diversity Dance Mix, Dame Darcey Bussell tells us about her mission to rescue Britain’s ballet dancers and raise spirits and money for struggling dance companies by creating the British Ballet Charity Gala at the Royal Albert Hall in London bringing together eight ballet companies in one evening of dance. We discuss the results of a BBC Freedom of Information request which asked police forces in the UK how many police had been accused of sexual misconduct. We hear from our reporter Melanie Abbott, from Ruth a former officer who found herself being sexually assaulted by a colleague and Harriet Wistrich from the Centre for Women’s Justice. This year the government has announced an extra 19 million pounds for domestic abuse schemes in England and Wales the majority of which will go to towards perpetrator programmes. . But just how effective are they? We hear from John who has just completed a 20 week domestic violence prevention programme at the Hampton Trust and to Vicky Gilroy who is a facilitator on those prevention programmes at the Trust. In today’s online digital world everything we do now on our phones or our computers—everything we look at, click on or say online—becomes “data”. Companies and governments increasingly share and use this information to make decisions about our lives. A small UK based team of experts called Foxglove is challenging how our data’s used and they’ve had some remarkable successes over the last year. It’s director Cori Crider tells us how the group successfully challenged the A Level grading algorithm last year. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Dame Darcey Bussell; Single Fatherhood; Rape Review with Max Hill QC Jun 18, 2021

Dame Darcey Bussell is the former Principal of The Royal Ballet & Strictly Judge, President of the RAD & creator of Diversity Dance Mix. She joins Anita to talk about her passion for dance and her mission to rescue Britain’s ballet dancers, and raise spirits and money for struggling dance companies, by creating the British Ballet Charity Gala. The event was performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London bringing together eight ballet companies in one evening of dance. It will be pay per view streamed from 7pm tonight and available on demand until 18 July. This Sunday is Father’s Day, and a new film out today on Netflix – ‘Fatherhood’ - explores the life of a single father raising his daughter. What is it like for the men who are lone parents? And how do young women feel growing up without a mother? Anita speaks to two fathers, and their daughters, to share their stories. The government has just published its delayed review into how the criminal justice system deals with rape in England and Wales. It comes after charges, prosecutions and convictions for rape fell over the last five years and looks at every part of the system from when an allegation is made to whether or not it makes it trial and then conviction. A crucial part of the legal chain is the Crown Prosecution Service which decides which cases go forward for trial based on the available evidence. The head of the CPS is the Director of the Public Prosecutions – currently Max Hill QC. He joins Anita to discuss the government’s review and their own plans for increasing conviction rates. Presented by Anita Rani Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Shirley J. Thompson; Female rabbis; Underwear in Pakistan Jun 17, 2021

Composer Shirley J. Thompson is the first woman in Europe to have composed and conducted a symphony within the last 40 years - New Nation Rising, A 21st Century Symphony, which was originally commissioned for the Queen’s Golden Jubilee in 2002, and then used for the 2012 Olympics Opening Ceremony. She’s now composed a new work, Emanation, which she’s written for the disabled-led ensemble BSO Resound. The ensemble is giving a live-streamed performance of the world premiere from Lighthouse, Poole. Earlier this week, Lindsey Taylor-Guthartz was ordained as an Orthodox rabbi at a Jewish college in New York. But as a woman, her ordination is not recognised by the Orthodox community in the UK. She is also no longer able to teach at the London School of Jewish Studies. Lindsey talks to Emma about the positive role of women within Orthodox Judaism and why she thinks opinion on female rabbis is starting to change. However, hers is by no means a position shared by all women within the community. Rachie Binstock explains why she is comfortable with the tradition of male-only rabbis when it comes to her faith. What do you look for in a good pair of pants? Advertisers have long told us that lacy, barely-there luxury is what all women want. But high on the priority list for most women is almost certainly comfort. However, experiencing the simple pleasure of a well-fitting bra and pants is not something accessible to all women everywhere. BBC Urdu reporter Saher Baloch talks to Emma about the uncomfortable problem of female underwear in Pakistan, and Qamar Zaman from underwear manufacturer Amami Clothing explains the taboo hampering efforts to bring about change.

Jessie Ware; girls disappearing from care services; women's football and sponsorship Jun 16, 2021

The singer-songwriter Jessie Ware was nominated for Female Solo Artist and Album of the Year at this Year’s BRIT Awards. She was also included in Barack Obama’s favourite music playlist of 2020. Jessie has been busy in lockdown recording new songs for the deluxe Platinum Pleasure edition of her hit album What's Your Pleasure? In tandem with her music career, her family’s passion for food led to her weekly podcast Table Manners with her mother Lennie, and she has just released her second book - Omelette - a loving gaze of life through eating and food. She joins Emma to discuss some of her favourite food memories from white bread and spaghetti Bolognese to chopped and fried fish – and omelettes. A few weeks ago the Times newspaper published the results of an investigation which said that the Police and social services were failing thousands of girls as young as 11 who had been repeatedly reported missing while at risk of sexual abuse. One child in West Yorkshire had ‘disappeared’ 197 times in three years. We speak to Kelly, who was one of those regularly disappearing from the children’s homes she lived in in the 1990’s, about the impact the lack of intervention at the time has had on her life. Now volunteering as an ambassador for the Maggie Oliver Foundation, supporting other young women who have had similar life experiences, she concurs with the Times research believing these vulnerable young people are continuing to be let down. As a campaigner in this area for many years, Maggie Oliver explains what she thinks needs to happen going forward to stop the continued abuse and exploitation. They are joined by Charlotte Ramsden, President of the Association of Children's Services. Women football fans of Norwich City have persuaded their club to drop sexist and degrading images attached to a sponsorship deal, despite it being very lucrative. Norwich City has got rid of a sponsorship worth £5 million. The content that was considered offensive was on the Youtube and Instagram sites of an Asian online gambling company called BK8. Eddie Mullan is a big fan of Norwich City, so much so she makes banners for the matches with a group called Along Comes Norwich and Simon Stone is the BBC Sport reporter. Gemma Barnett has won the spoken word category of the new Poetry for Good competition, the UK’s first nationwide poetry awards launched in celebration of key workers for her poem The Front Desk. Gemma is an actor but as theatres began to close last year with COVID she realised she needed to get another job – finding work as a GP’s receptionist. She wrote this poem in admiration of the female team who worked there. Emma hears about Gemma’s experiences and hears her poem.

Summer hair trends; Police & sexual misconduct - Woman's Hour/Newsnight reveal 1,400 accused Jun 15, 2021

Summer’s here and despite the restrictions still in place on social gathering we’re still managing to meet up with friends and enjoy the odd night out. One aspect of that is of course looking your best and a big part of that is your hair, which has had to take a backseat in terms of grooming and maintenance over the last eighteen months of lockdowns. But, we are returning to salons and apparently trying lots of new and old styles, as well as getting more creative with colour. Hair stylist Nicky Clarke gives Emma Barnett a summer make over and Camilla Kay from Glamour Magazine points out the trends including seventies flicks and “big hair” and the “Shullet” – the modern take on the mullet. Most of us would think of the police as a safe place to turn to in a time of need. But it's a belief that has been seriously questioned by a couple of incidents over the past year. In a joint investigation with Newsnight we asked police forces in the UK, how many police had been accused of sexual misconduct. Of course most police officers do their jobs with integrity and honesty but campaigners say some of the results were worrying. Our reporter Melanie Abbott has been looking at this. Shamima Begum, Kimberly Polman and Hoda Muthana are just a few of the names who made headline news around the world after leaving their homes in the West to join the so called Islamic State. With rare access to the detention camp in Northern Syria, Alba Sotorra Clua's new film 'The Return: Life After ISIS' features some of the women who devoted their lives to the group and who feel they should be given the chance to start over, back home in the West. MP Jess Phillips is calling for there to be less shame around HPV – a sexually transmitted infection that she had in her twenties. Most sexually active people will contract HPV but won’t know they have it. For 90% of people it clears up but for others it can be serious. Jess Phillips found out she had HPV when she was 22 and pregnant and is talking about this to raise awareness for Cervical Cancer Screening Awareness week. Dr Sarah Jarvis also joins Emma. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Harriet Wistrich Interviewed Guest: Nicky Clarke Interviewed Guest: Camilla Kay Photographer: Daniel Thomas Smith from Glamour Interviewed Guest: Alba Sotorra Clua Interviewed Guest: Jess Phillips Interviewed Guest: Dr Sarah Jarvis

Domestic violence prevention. Managing how our data’s used. Veteran journalist Hella Pick. "Freedom Day" postponed. Jun 14, 2021

We hear many stories of domestic abuse but rarely from those who have been the perpetrators. John, who's just completed a 20 week domestic violence prevention programme at the Hampton Trust, speaks out to encourage other men to seek help. He's joined by Vicky Gilroy who's a facilitator on the prevention programmes at the Hampton Trust . In today’s online digital world everything we do now on our phones or our computers—everything we look at, click on or say online, becomes “data”. Companies and governments increasingly share and use this information. A small UK based team of experts called Foxglove is challenging how our data’s used . Cori Crider a Director at Foxglove talks about how amongst other things the group successfully challenged the A Level grading algorithm last year, Plus as we mark Refugee Week Hella Pick joins us to talk about life as a Kindertransport survivor. She went on to carve out a hugely successful career in journalism. In her 35 year career she's reported on everything from the assassination of President Kennedy to the closing stages of the Cold War. In her book " Invisible Walls A Journalist in Search of Her Life", she explores her life as a female journalist and her struggles with identity. And scientific experts have urged the government to consider delaying 'Freedom Day' from the original planned Step 4 date following a rise in cases of the Delta variant. This will be devastating news for many of those working in the hospitality industry. To discuss the reaction and implications by Kate Nicholls, CEO of UK Hospitality, and Kirsty McCall, a make up artist who yesterday announced the closing of her business after 15 years. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell.

Paloma Faith, Heath Minister Nadine Dorries, Sexual harassment in the workplace, No-fault divorce Jun 12, 2021

Paloma Faith on combining motherhood with her music as well as her reaction to the OFSTED survey that sexual harassment of schoolchildren has become normalised in schools. Her new single Monster is about her relationship with her career. What's the best way to stamp out sexual harassment in the workplace? We discuss with Stella Chandler, Director of Development at Focal Point Training which runs in person workplace behavioural courses that includes sexual harassment, and Deeba Syed, a lawyer who set up and manages the sexual harassment at work advice line at Rights of Women. The new figurehead known as Nannie is now being installed on the famous ship, the Cutty Sark: the tea clipper that resides in a specially designed dry dock in Greenwich next to the river Thames in London. Why is the figurehead of a ship often a woman? Louise Macfarlane is senior curator at the Cutty Sark. The Health Minister Nadine Dorries on the public call for evidence for England's first women's health strategy. The new no-fault divorce law has been delayed in England until 2022. What can make divorce less complicated and confrontational? We hear from Ellie, who is in the middle of a break-up, Kate Daly who runs Amicable, an online divorce service, and divorce lawyer Ayesha Vardag. What's so special about the relationship between gay men and their straight female best friends? In celebration of Pride Month, we discuss with Matt Cain, author and ambassador of Manchester Pride, and Jill Nalder, best friend of Russell T Davies, and the inspiration for Jill Baxter in the C4 drama 'It's a Sin'. Presenter: Chloe Tilley Producer : Dianne McGregor

Nannie, the figurehead for the Cutty Sark; The power of giving away power; No fault divorce; Jun 11, 2021

The G7 kicks off in Cornwall today. Boris Johnson and leaders from Japan, Canada, Italy and France who make up the Group of Seven will be joined by US President Joe Biden and the German Chancellor Angela Merkel . On the agenda the biggest issues affecting our world - everything from climate change to the economic recovery post Covid. But how should they change their approach? How much better could things be if leaders, instead of lording their power over us and operating a top-down approach, did something different? In his new book 'The Power of Giving Away Power', Matthew Barzun argues that if leaders just let go and listened and worked more closely with their colleagues, we'd see things thrive and grow. Baroness Valerie Amos, now the Master of University College, Oxford joins him. As live music events draw closer and closer, we ask – how diverse is the music industry? And what can be done to make things more inclusive? We hear from one DJ Jaguar, about her own experiences and an initiative to train other young women. As no fault divorce is delayed we ask if there is a way to make divorce less complicated and confrontational? We hear from Ellie, who is in the middle of a break-up, a high profile divorce lawyer, Ayesha Vardag, and Kate Daly, the founder of Amicable – an online divorce service. In the Women's Super League the transfer window opens today with a new rule forcing clubs to include eight homegrown players in their squad. They must have been trained by their club, or another club in England, for at least three years before their 21st birthday. BBC sports presenter, Charlie Webster, joins Chloe Tilley. Today the new figurehead known as Nannie will start to be installed on the prow of the famous ship, the Cutty Sark: the tea clipper that resides in a specially designed dry dock in Greenwich next to the river Thames in London. The figurehead of a ship is often a woman but why and what is their significance? Louise Macfarlane, senior curator at the Cutty Sark, explains. Presenter: Chloe Tilley Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Baroness Valerie Amos Interviewed Guest: Matthew Barzun Interviewed Guest: Jaguar Bingham Interviewed Guest: Kate Daly interviewed Guest: Ayesha Vardag Interviewed Guest: Ellie Interviewed Guest: Charlie Webster Interviewed Guest: Louise Macfarlane

Paloma Faith, Nursing, Maya Forstater Verdict Jun 10, 2021

We talk to Paloma Faith about her music, her films, being a mother of two daughters, and harassment towards women and girls. She's got a new single out called Monster which is about her relationship with her career. We hear from two nurses who tell us how the past year and a half has been for them. In the light of a report published earlier this week by the Health Select Committee we discuss burn-out and how health staff are so tired because of the pandemic that many are quitting and morale is at an all time low. Dr Gwen Adshead is one of Britain’s leading forensic psychiatrists and has spent 30 years providing therapy in secure hospitals and prisons. She worked extensively with violent women. Her book, The Devil You Know, co-authored with Eileen Horne, is a collection of 11 stories about men and women who've committed acts of terrible violence. And we have bring you the breaking news that Maya Forstater has won her Appeal against an employment tribunal. Maya Forstater went to a tribunal in 2019 when her employment contract wasn't renewed after she posted tweets about gender recognition. She lost that case, but this morning - having taken it further - she's won the Appeal.

Women's Health Special - Nadine Dorries, Unwell Women, Mesh removal centres, Autoimmunity Jun 09, 2021

Women's health has long been the poor relation when it comes to medical understanding, funding and research. The government says it wants that to change - and earlier this year announced the establishment of England's first Women's Health Strategy, which will look at women's health across our lifespans. The priorities of that strategy will be shaped, they say, by the results of a public call for evidence which closes this Sunday. But after centuries of - as the Health Secretary Matt Hancock put it - 'living with a health and care system that is mostly designed by men, for men', what sort of confidence should we have in this strategy bringing about meaningful change? Emma Barnett is joined by Women's Health Minister, Nadine Dorries. Why are so many women dismissed, disbelieved or misdiagnosed when they seek medical help? Dr Elinor Cleghorn, cultural historian and author of 'Unwell Women - A journey through medicine and myth in a man-made world', says the answer lies in over a thousand years of history. She talks to Emma about the shockingly slow pace of change in attitudes to women's health, why women's pain still isn't taken seriously, and how the message that women's bodies are at the mercy of their thoughts and feelings has burrowed deep into our consciousness. In April this year, seven specialist mesh complication centres were launched in England to help treat women harmed by the use of pelvic mesh. These centres were recommended in a report by Baroness Cumberlege as a way of concentrating expertise and improving outcomes. But how are the centres working so far? And what are the fears and concerns still facing those women waiting for their mesh to be removed? Listener Judi tells us her experience, and Prof Hashim Hashim, a urological surgeon with specialist skill in mesh removal, explains why the surgery is so complicated and how medical professionals are trying to rebuild trust amid so much pain and anger. Around four million people have an autoimmune disease in the UK - so around 8% of the population. But of these four million, 78% are women. Reporter Carolyn Atkinson talks to Professor Lucy Walker about a new study into what might tie all these conditions together, and also Nina Christie, who currently lives with three autoimmune conditions. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Anna Lacey

Abortion in America, Stamping out sexual harassment in the workplace, Talking to young people about drugs Jun 08, 2021

Last month the US Supreme Court agreed to consider a major challenge to reproductive rights, saying it will look at the state of Mississippi’s bid to enforce a ban on almost all abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy. Two days later the Republican governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, signed into law a six-week abortion ban. Why are attempts to reduce women’s access to these services being made? Last week one young Texan woman decided to use her platform at her high school graduation to give a speech on the so-called ‘Heartbeat Bill’. A speech that has gone viral. Emma speaks to 18 year-old Paxton Smith, and to Amanda Taub, a reporter for the New York Times. Last week we heard from Lord Heseltine who was unhappy about being forced as a Member of the House of Lords to attend an online course around sexual harassment entitled 'Valuing Everyone Training’. In response, we received a text: ‘I’m a young female staffer and did the Valuing Everyone course last autumn. It wasn’t bad, but wouldn’t stop people mistreating colleagues/staff and isn’t a replacement for a proper HR system.' We speak to Stella Chandler, Focal Point Training who runs similar courses, and Deeba Syed, a lawyer who set up and manages the sexual harassment at work advice line at Rights of Women on what needs to be done to stamp out sexual harassment in the workplace. Daniel Spargo-Mabbs was a popular, intelligent and charismatic 16 year-old boy. But one evening in January 2014, he never came home. Dan had gone to an illegal rave and taken a lethal dose of the drug MDMA. Seven years later, his mother Fiona Spargo-Mabbs, is one of the country’s leading drug education advisors, and has just published the book ‘I Wish I’d Known: Young People, Drugs and Decisions; a Guide for Parents and Carers'. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Frankie Tobi

Dido Harding, Friendship between gay men and straight women, Foreign aid cuts Jun 07, 2021

It’s just over a year since the businesswoman and conservative peer Dido Harding was brought in to set up a test and trace system to help stop the Covid-19 pandemic. The system was going to be “world beating” and help get the UK out of lockdown according to the Prime minister but the incredible costs involved – around £37 billion – have been criticised for failing to make an impact. The system has improved but what will its legacy be? Dido Harding talks to Emma Barnett on Woman’s Hour today in her first interview since leaving the role last month and reflects on the ups and downs of the last year. As we celebrate Pride Month throughout June we thought we'd spend a moment celebrating the relationship between gay men and their female BFF. From reality stars like Jenny and Lee on Googlebox and Olivia Bentley's relationship with Ollie and Gareth in Made in Chelsea to Will and Grace to the designer Halston and Liza Minelli. What is it about the relationship that makes them so special? A group of MPs, Including the former Prime Minister Theresa May, are trying to push through a vote in parliament which they hope will reverse controversial cuts to the international aid budget. It's likely that an amendment to the Advanced Research and Invention Agency bill will happen, and that technical change will result in aid spending going back to what it was. It was recently cut from 0.7% to 0.5. Preet Gill MP is Shadow International Development Secretary and Ella Whelan is a journalist and commentator who doesn't believe in foreign aid. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Arooj Aftab, Reclaiming sexist language Jun 05, 2021

How possible is it to actually earn a living from sport? The latest BBC Elite British Sportswomen’s Survey found that four out of five elite British sportswomen feel they are not paid enough compared to their male counterparts and more than 60% of UK’s top female athletes make less than £10,000 a year. On the other hand revenue generated by women's sport in the UK is set to grow to £1bn a year by 2030 – up from £350m a year currently – making it one of the fastest growing sectors in the sports industry. The Women’s Sports Trust says the key to unlocking this impressive growth will be the increased visibility of female athletes and teams. Emily Defroand is a Great Britain and England Hockey player, Zarah El-Kudcy is a Trustee at the Women’s Sports Trust and the Head of Commercial partnership development at Formula 1, and Dr Ali Bowes is a senior lecturer in the Sociology of Sport at Nottingham Trent University. Lord Michael Heseltine, who was Deputy Prime Minister in the mid-nineties, says he's had to attend a House of Lords course to do with what's right and what's wrong when it comes to conduct between colleagues, especially between men and women. The training is called "Valuing Everyone". The House of Lords has been very firm about this online course on inappropriate behaviour and prejudice, saying all peers must attend. Lord Heseltine was sent a reminder that he MUST complete it, which seems to have aggravated him a great deal. He’s here, and so is Wera Hobhouse, Lib Dem MP. In the House of Commons, the course isn't mandatory for MPs. Language – and the way we use it – is forever changing. We explore how the word ‘bitch’ and other similar words with a sexist history are being reclaimed and reinvented by women to mean something positive. Chante Joseph is a social media creative and writer. Jacqueline Springer is a Black music and culture journalist. Helen Taylor is an Emeritus Professor of English at the University of Exeter. Why, after decades of social progress is motherhood still so much harder than it needs to be? Why aren't we honest about the realities of being a mother? These are just two of the themes explored in a trio of books about motherhood that have just been published. It's not as if these questions haven't been asked before. There is a rich vein of literature from Simone de Beauvoir's The Second Sex through to Adrienne Rich's classic study Of Woman Born, Juliet Mitchell's A Women's Estate , Jane Lazarre's The Mother Knot and many more. And many second wave feminists fought hard for the rights of mothers on both sides of the Atlantic. And yet very little, if any progress, has been made according to this new crop of authors. Elaine Glaser is the author of Motherhood: A Manifesto, Pragya Agarwal is the author of (M)otherhood: On the Choices of Being a Woman, and Marina Fogle co-presents the podcast 'As Good As It Gets?' Arooj Aftab is a Pakistani composer, based in Brooklyn. She joins Anita to talk about her music and influences from jazz and Qawwali to Jeff Buckley and Abidi Parveen. She explains how grief has shifted the tone of her music to ‘heavy metal harp’, and discusses her latest album, Vulture Prince, which honours and reimagines centuries-old ghazals, a form of South Asian poetry and music that she grew up listening to with her family. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is the author of novels including 'Purple Hibiscus', 'Half of a Yellow Sun', which won the Orange Prize (now called the Women’s Prize for Fiction), and 'Americanah', which won the US National Book Critics Circle Award. Chimamanda has also delivered two landmark TED Talks: The Danger of A Single Story, and We Should All Be Feminists, which started a worldwide conversation about feminism and was published as a book in 2014. She has now written a more personal book. On 10 June 2020 her father died suddenly in Nigeria. A self-confessed daddy’s girl, she has now remembered her father in a tribute, 'Notes on Grief'. Her mother has since also died. How do you deal with double heartbreak?

Arooj Aftab, PIP implants, Race, trauma & culture, Reclaiming sexist language Jun 04, 2021

Arooj Aftab is a Pakistani composer, based in Brooklyn. She joins Anita to talk about her music and influences from jazz and Qawwali to Jeff Buckley and Abidi Parveen. She explains how grief has shifted the tone of her music to ‘heavy metal harp’, and discusses her latest album, Vulture Prince, which honours and reimagines centuries-old ghazals, a form of South Asian poetry and music that she grew up listening to with her family. Now the dust has settled on the recent court ruling on compensation for women with PIP Implants, it's become clear a group of women will miss out. The French court ruled that those who had implants pre 2006 will not get any money, as it decided the safety regulator who approved the implants for market couldn't have been aware of any problems before that date. Lawyers representing the women will go back to the French supreme court to fight this. Melanie Abbott has been looking into this. Therapist and researcher, Guilaine Kinouni’s book Living While Black looks at the racial inequalities within the mental health system and their consequences for Black people. She is joined by author, academic, and broadcaster Emma Dabiri whose new book What White People Can Do Next looks at racial justice and how we demonstrations of support can be transformed into real and meaningful change. Language – and the way we use it – is forever changing. We explore how the word ‘bitch’ and other similar words with a sexist history are being reclaimed and reinvented by women to mean something positive. Chante Joseph is a social media creative and writer. Jacqueline Springer is a Black music and culture journalist. Helen Taylor is an Emeritus Professor of English at the University of Exeter. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Frankie Tobi

Author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Jun 03, 2021

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is the author of novels including 'Purple Hibiscus', 'Half of a Yellow Sun', which won the Orange Prize (now called the Women’s Prize for Fiction), and 'Americanah', which won the US National Book Critics Circle Award. Chimamanda has also delivered two landmark TED Talks: The Danger of A Single Story, and We Should All Be Feminists, which started a worldwide conversation about feminism and was published as a book in 2014. She has now written a more personal book. On 10 June 2020 her father died suddenly in Nigeria. A self-confessed daddy’s girl, she has now remembered her father in a tribute, 'Notes on Grief'. Her mother has since also died. How do you deal with double heartbreak? Chimamanda joins Emma to examine the layers of loss and the nature of grief. Lord Michael Heseltine, who was Deputy Prime Minister in the mid-nineties, says he's had to attend a House of Lords course to do with what's right and what's wrong when it comes to conduct between colleagues, especially between men and women. The training is called "Valuing Everyone". The House of Lords has been very firm about this online course on inappropriate behaviour and prejudice, saying all peers must attend. Lord Heseltine was sent a reminder that he MUST complete it, which seems to have aggravated him a great deal. He’s here, and so is Wera (pron: VERA) Hobhouse, Lib Dem MP. In the House of Commons, the course isn't mandatory for MPs. Parm Sandhu grew up in the Midlands - a child of immigrants from the Punjab whose main ambition for her she says was to become an ‘obedient wife’. Forced into an arranged marriage at 16 she later fled to London and in 1989 joined the police. In her memoir ‘Black and Blue: One Woman’s Story of policing’ which is out next week, she tells her story of her thirty years in the Metropolitan police - rising through the ranks from a WPC to Chief Superintendent and becoming New Scotland Yard’s most senior ethnic minority woman in the force. She tells us her 30 year career was marred by repeated racism and sexism and a charge of gross misconduct which she was later cleared of. This led to her bringing an employment tribunal claim against the force and reaching a financial settlement with them last year. The sun is out and if you’re looking out your summer dresses and skirts you might also be weighing up the state of your skin after months of slobbing at home in your lockdown comfies. Sales of personal grooming products like deodorant, skincare products and razors went down during the pandemic so will we be embracing the natural look? Or maybe you already do as a member of the hairy legs club? We talk to the stand-up comedian, Ashley Storrie about her beauty regime and also to George Driver, the acting Beauty Director of ELLE UK. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Interviewed Guest: Michael Heseltine Interviewed Guest: Wera Hobhouse Interviewed Guest: Parm Sandhu Interviewed Guest: Ashley Storrie Interviewed Guest: George Driver

The Politics of Motherhood, Big Night Out Reading, Women and environmental art. Jun 02, 2021

You may have visited Kew Gardens and seen the incredible gallery of botanical art created by Marianne North - she is one of several female artists being featured at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum as part of Coventry's UK City of Culture Celebrations. The exhibition, called UnNatural History, explores not only the historical role of artists in the science of natural history - but also contemporary artists addressing the current climate crisis. But with so much focus on the environment how effective is art in grabbing the public's attention? Alice Sharp is the founder of Invisible Dust who have curated the exhibition and Frances Disley is an artist who examines the medicinal properties of plants and healing power of nature. Why, after decades of social progress is motherhood still so much harder than it needs to be? Why aren't we honest about the realities of being a mother? These are just two of the themes explored in a trio of books about motherhood that have just been published. It's not as if these questions haven't been asked before. There is a rich vein of literature from Simone de Beauvoir's The Second Sex through to Adrienne Rich's classic study Of Woman Born, Juliet Mitchell's A Women's Estate , Jane Lazarre's The Mother Knot and many more. And many second wave feminists fought hard for the rights of mothers on both sides of the Atlantic. And yet very little, if any progress, has been made according to this new crop of authors. Elaine Glaser author of Motherhood: A Manifesto and Pragya Agarwal author of (M)otherhood: On the Choices of Being a Woman join Emma. A few weeks ago as meeting up began to look possible again, we asked you to tell us about who you were desperate to see again and why. Last week we heard from Chris and her mates in Cardiff - this week listener Sally-Ann from Reading wanted to nominate 'the girls' - she's had a tough year and not seeing them face to face has been hard. Our reporter Jo Morris spoke to Sally-Ann as she prepared to host a garden get-together and popped into one of their regular Zoom chats to eavesdrop on their banter and memories. Boric acid is a white powder that can do everything from get stains out of your clothes, to stop your fridge smelling, to acting as a pesticide. But apparently there's another use for this chemical remedy, and mentions of it have been popping up lately on social media threads and message boards: it can also be used as a treatment for chronic bacterial vaginosis. However, it is also being used for less serious vaginal infections. Dr Jen Gunter, American gynaecologist, obstetrician and author of the Vagina Bible says she has seen an increase in the use of boric acid vaginal pessaries among her patients over the past few years, paralleling an explosion of new over the counter boric acid products and heavy marketing from celebrities, influencers, naturopaths, and functional medicine providers. She explains her concerns.

Sinead O'Connor, Your returning to work manifesto. Jun 01, 2021

It's one of the most unforgettable moments in pop. Sinead O'Connor singing Nothing Compares 2 U straight into the camera. Big eyes, shaved head, minimal make up - tears rolling down her cheeks. It catapulted her to fame whether she liked it or not. Sinead joins Emma to talk about her autobiography," Rememberings" The ‘work from home’ guidelines are expected to be scrapped on June 21 - should the government’s current roadmap continue. If you were writing a manifesto for the best way for women to work post-pandemic what would it say? We hear from author and columnist, Elizabeth Uviebinené who argues in her new book ‘The Reset’ for a fundamental reset of our entire work culture, Danny Harmer, Chief People Officer for Aviva on how big companies are addressing the flexibility needs of their workforce and Mark Gatto, father of a two-year-old and research associate in masculinities and working parenthood, Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell PHOTO CREDIT; Donal Moloney

A Celebration of Women's Sporting Success May 31, 2021

Over the last few weeks and months we have seen women make huge progress in the world of sport. It was just over a month ago that the jockey Rachael Blackmore made history by becoming the first female rider to win the Grand National in its 173 year history. Also last month Rebecca Welch became the first female referee to oversee an English Football League match in 134 years. And the former footballer Alex Scott has become the presenter of the BBC’s Football Focus, becoming the show's first permanent female host in its history. It comes against a backdrop that has seen viewing figures for women’s football and rugby continue to grow despite a virtually invisible summer of competition last year. But a recent BBC Survey of elite sportswomen found that more than 60% earn less than £10,000 a year from their sport. So what still needs to be done when it comes to building on women’s success in sport and how can this upward momentum be maintained and include a variety of sports and not just football, cricket and rugby? We have gathered some of the biggest influencers in the sporting world around a virtual round table. Zarah El-Kudcy a Trustee at the Women’s Sports Trust and the Head of Commercial Partnership Development at Formula 1, Emily Defroand a Great Britain and England Hockey player, Catherine Bond Muir the CEO of the W Series a motor racing championship for women, Kelly Simmons the FA’s Director of the Women’s Professional Game, Alison Kervin a writer and former Sports Editor for the Mail on Sunday (she was the first female sports editor on a national newspaper) and Dr Ali Bowes is a senior lecturer in the Sociology of Sport at Nottingham Trent University. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Beverley Purcell

Weekend Woman's Hour: Holly Smale, Paris Lees, #MeToo in the British Army, Hormones and vaccines May 29, 2021

A former senior Army officer is calling for the military to have a “#MeToo moment” and is claiming that hundreds of female troops have been raped and sexually abused by colleagues. Lt Col Diane Allen, who served for 37 years, says the Armed Forces are being run by “a toxic group of privately-educated white senior officers” We talk to Diane Allen and also hear from the Defence Minister Baroness Goldie. Some women and trans men are reporting unusual symptoms after having their Covid vaccinations – ranging from menstrual irregularities to bleeding post menopause. We talk to the reproductive immunologist Dr Viki Male from Imperial College in London to find out what’s behind these symptoms. The best selling author of the Geek Girl series Holly Smale has been diagnosed with autism at age 39. She said she feels relief that she now has an explanation for why she’s felt she’s never “fitted in”. Prof Catherine Heymans, astrophysicist and world-leading expert in the so-called dark universe, is now the Astronomer Royal of Scotland. She's the first woman to hold this prestigious role, but the problem is she's still not entirely convinced she should have the job. She talks to us about impostor syndrome, challenging the status quo and dealing with aggressive criticism. Paris Lees is a journalist, anti-bullying campaigner, and a Contributing Editor at British Vogue. She was the first openly trans woman to present on BBC Radio 1, and also the first to appear on Question Time. She’s written a memoir called What it Feels like for a Girl, which covers the period aged 13 to 18 – a turbulent, heady time full of adventure and disaster. What generation do you define as? The term 'geriatric millennial' went viral last week, after writer Erica Dhwan used it to describe the micro-generation born between 1980 and 1985. Erica believes they make particularly good employees due to their experience of life before the digital world. Rosa Silverman, a senior features writer at the Telegraph, says she is proud to self-define as one of the around 5 million UK geriatric millennials in the UK.

Covid vaccines and women, Paris Lees & Nero's women May 28, 2021

Some women and trans men are reporting unusual symptoms after having their Covid vaccinations – ranging from menstrual irregularities to bleeding post menopause. We talk to the reproductive immunologist Dr Viki Male from Imperial College in London to find out what’s behind these symptoms and also consider the issue of vaccine hesitancy amongst young women, vaccination during pregnancy and the impact of Covid and the vaccine on breast feeding mums. Of the twelve judges on the Supreme Court – the highest court in the land – all are white and only two are women. So what needs to be done to increase diversity within the UK judicial system, and what obstacles remain in place today? Vicky Fox, the Chief Executive of the Supreme Court, and Stephanie Boyce, President of the Law Society discuss. Paris Lees is a journalist, anti-bullying campaigner, and a Contributing Editor at British Vogue. She was the first openly trans woman to present on BBC Radio 1, and also the first to appear on Question Time. She’s written a memoir called What it Feels like for a Girl, which covers the period aged 13 to 18 – a turbulent, heady time full of adventure and disaster. Nero was the 5th Emperor of Rome and one of its most infamous rulers, notorious for his cruelty, debauchery and eccentricity. He ruled at a time of great social and political change, overseeing momentous events such as the Great Fire of Rome and Boudica’s rebellion in Britain. He allegedly killed his mother and his two wives, only cared about his art and had very little interest in ruling the empire. The writer and classicist Natalie Haynes has been to see a new exhibition of Nero at the British Museum in London and tells us how the women in his life shaped his reign. We asked listeners to tell us about the groups of friends they were desperate to meet up with when Covid regulations allowed. Chris from Cardiff wanted to celebrate the women she's known for more than 50 years as they planned a big night out together and our reporter Jo Morris eavesdropped on the banter and the memories. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed

Babes in the wood, Ecocide, Sexism in craft beer, and How to save a life May 27, 2021

Karen Hadaway was one of two little girls murdered in the Babes in the Wood case. Her mother, Michelle, tells us about giving her daughetr's clothes to Martin Bashir in 1991 to get DNA tested. She still hasn't got them back. He says he can't remember the exchange. Michelle describes her feelings in light of the Dyson investigation. Should the mass destruction of nature, also known as ecocide, be a crime? At the moment there are four crimes covered by the International Criminal Court - genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. Now campaigners are pushing to have ecocide added to the list. We're joined by Jojo Mehta, the co-founder of Stop Ecocide International and barrister Philippe Sand. Seven years ago “Eva Carter” saved her partner's life. She tells Emma how the experience of that night and her feelings at the time and afterwards fed into her novel How To Save A Life. In recent days there has been a huge outpouring on social media of women sharing their experiences of sexism working in the craft beer industry. An online conference will be held next month to discuss he problem. Emma is joined by Charlotte Cook, head brewer at Coalition Brewing and Melissa Cole, beer writer and author of The Little Book of Craft Beer. Note: This podcast has been edited from the original programme. In this programme reference was made to a journalist called Eileen Fairweather, who Michelle Hadaway says witnessed the handing over of her daughter’s clothes to Martin Bashir. Eileen worked with him for several months in 1991, researching a possible BBC documentary. Eileen Fairweather has confirmed to us that her contract ended immediately after that meeting and she never saw Bashir again. She repeatedly tried to find out from Martin Bashir and his team what happened to the clothes and has previously tried to alert the BBC to this issue. She has raised this issue in several newspaper articles and supports Michelle’s fight for the truth about what Bashir did with this evidence. Eileen Fairweather is an award-winning freelance journalist who has specialised for decades in exposing child abuse and institutional cover-ups, including the mass abuse in Islington's children's homes. Her ground breaking work has won the Catherine Pakenham Award for women journalists and two British Press Awards.

Gemma Arterton, Care Homes, The Astronomer Royal May 27, 2021

Gemma Arterton’s latest acting role is in a play called Walden. It's on in London’s West End and it's the story of estranged twin sisters: one's a botanist for Nasa and the other's a former architect for Nasa. They meet up in a remote cabin in the woods sometime in the future, when the earth’s situation is looking bleak. We take a look at some of claims made yesterday by Dominic Cummings about care homes with Gisella Casciello Rogers whose 85 year old father died in one last year. And we also have Helen Wildbore from The Relatives and Residents Association. Prof Catherine Heymans, astrophysicist and world-leading expert in the so-called dark universe, is now the Astronomer Royal of Scotland. She's the first woman to hold this prestigious role, but the problem is she's still not entirely convinced she should have the job. She suffers from impostor syndrome, but we know she shouldn't! She talks to Emma about challenging the status quo and dealing with aggressive criticism. And we have Annie Macmanus (formerly known as Annie Mac, the DJ) and Esther Freud talking about their new novels which have common themes: motherhood and the risk of losing yourself.

#MeToo in the British Army, Dominic Cummings, Women & Art: How We Look, Geriatric Millennials May 26, 2021

A former senior Army officer is calling for the military to have a “#MeToo moment” and is claiming that hundreds of female troops have been raped and sexually abused by colleagues. Lt Col Diane Allen, who served for 37 years, says the Armed Forces are being run by “a toxic group of privately-educated white senior officers” We talk to Diane Allen and also hear from the Defence Minister Baroness Goldie. Dominic Cummings, the Prime Minister’s former chief advisor, will today face questions from senior MPs over the government’s response to the pandemic. Cummings is a controversial figure in Westminster, and since leaving his position as Boris Johnson’s top aide, he has not gone quietly, making a series of damning claims against the Prime Minister and government. But would the media and political coverage have been the same had he been a woman? Caroline Nokes, the Conservative chair of the Women and Equalities Committee, joins us to discuss. Art historian Catherine McCormack has just published an impassioned book, Women in the Picture: Women Art and the Power of Looking. She argues that women's identity has long been stifled by dodgy narratives and a limited set of archetypes. For art history to remain relevant, she says, we need to look again and reconsider many of the classics displayed in art galleries. What generation do you define as? The term 'geriatric millennial' went viral last week, after writer Erica Dhwan used it to describe the micro-generation born between 1980 and 1985. Erica believes they make particularly good employees due to their experience of life before the digital world. Rosa Silverman, a senior features writer at the Telegraph, says she is proud to self-define as one of the around 5 million UK geriatric millennials in the UK.

Holly Smale, Caroline Dinenage MP, Ursula Le Menn & Anne-Elisabeth Moutet, Proff. Asma Khalil & Dr. Mary Ross-Davie May 24, 2021

On Woman's Hour today Emma Barnett talks to the best selling author Holly Smale about being diagnosed with autism at age 39. The author of the "Geek Girl" series has said she feels relief that she now has an explanation for why she’s felt she’s never “ fitted in”. We speak to the journalist Rosamund Urwin about her scoop on the Martin Bashir story and also to the Digital Minister Caroline Dinenage MP about what’s in the new Online Safety Bill. In a few weeks, a French woman will stand trial for killing her husband, but she's got the support of thousands of people in France who've signed a petition and want her pardoned. Valerie Bacot was with her older husband for decades. Valerie's now 40, but she knew her husband since she was 12. From then on he molested her, beat her, raped her and used her as a prostitute. We talk to Ursula Le Menn is from Osez le feminisme! a French feminist campaigning organisation and she knows family and friends of Valerie and also to Anne-Elisabeth Moutet a journalist based in Paris. A new UK study suggests having Coronavirus around the time of birth may increase the chance of stillbirths and premature births. Scientists say while most pregnancies are not affected their findings should encourage pregnant women to have jabs as soon as they are eligible. We hear from Professor Asma Khalil who was the co-author of the research paper and also Dr Mary Ross Davie the Director of Professional Midwifery at the Royal College of Midwives. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineers: Bob Nettles, Duncan Hannant.

Weekend Woman’s Hour: We are Lady Parts, Environment Minister Rebecca Pow, Police abuse supercomplaint, Brit rising star Griff May 22, 2021

A TV comedy series featuring funny and bold Muslim women – ‘We Are Lady Parts’ is a new six part comedy series for Channel 4. It follows the highs and lows of the female punk band Lady Parts. Anita speaks to Anjana Vasan and series writer Nida Manzoor. The Government has announced a range of measures to protect the environment, from banning peat in garden centres to increasing the rate of tree planting and reversing the loss of species diversity. A 10p charge on single-use plastic bags came into force in England on Friday. But what difference will these policies - and others made in the run-up to COP26 - make to the crisis facing nature and the climate? Emma speaks to Environment Minister Rebecca Pow. Listener Clementine Baig was diagnosed with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency last year, and got in touch to share her experiences with infertility. She's joined by the Podcaster Noni Martins, whose husband was diagnosed with Male Factor Infertility in 2019, to explore how an infertility diagnosis can impact families, relationships and self-image. Since a supercomplaint was made last year about domestic abuse by police officers, dozens more women have come forward to say they are affected. The centre for women's justice is still waiting for an outcome to its complaint. But wants the way these cases are dealt with to be drastically changed. We talk to a woman who suffered abuse from her police officer husband. The terms polyamorous and consensually non-monogamous are increasingly normalised when it comes to relationships and dating. For some people, monogamy just doesn’t work for them. We hear from three people who all describe themselves as non-monogamous. Twenty year old Griff is the recipient of this year’s prestigious BRITs Rising Star Award, following past winners such as Celeste, Sam Smith and Adele. Griff has also been nominated for an Ivor Novello award and ended 2020 by singing the sound-track for Disney's Christmas advert. She performs a special version of her song Black Hole for Woman’s Hour. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Dianne McGregor

Women on nature, Prisons Minister Alex Chalk, We Are Lady Parts, How infertility diagnoses impact relationships. May 21, 2021

New research shows that girls face unique and escalating risks as they turn 18. The transition from girlhood to adulthood could be an opportunity to get things right, but with little to no specialist support for young women as a group, it becomes a missed opportunity to prevent young women’s needs becoming more complex and entrenched. Anita is joined by Prisons and Probation Minister, Alex Chalk, Jessica Southgate, CEO of Agenda and by 21 year old, Dani, who, despite a chaotic childhood and being left with no support from 16, turned her life around. A new anthology has just been published called Women on Nature. It includes women from the 14th century to the present day, fiction writers, poets, biographers, gardeners, farmers, theologians, artists and many more. Anita talks to the editor, writer Katharine Norbury, about her selection and why she thinks her anthology provides a fresh vision of the natural world and an alternative to conventional nature writing. A TV comedy series featuring funny and bold Muslim women – a rarity you might say on our screens. Well ‘We Are Lady Parts’ is that rarity: a new six part comedy series for Channel 4 which began last night. It follows the highs and lows of the female punk band Lady Parts. We speak to Anjana Vasan and series writer Nida Manzoor. On Woman's Hour, we are always keen to hear your stories. One listener, Clementine Baig was diagnosed with Primary Ovarian Insufficiency last year, and got in touch to share her experiences with infertility. She's joined by the Podcaster Noni Martins, whose husband was diagnosed with Male Factor Infertility in 2019, to explore how an infertility diagnosis can impact families, relationships and self-image. Presented by Anita Rani Producer: Frankie Tobi

Women and sheds, Environment Minister Rebecca Pow, Rape threat insults, Declining birth rate in China May 20, 2021

Since the beginning of the pandemic, shed sellers have seen a surge in demand - especially those that can be used as home offices. And existing summerhouses and garages have been commandeered, particularly by women, as a growing number expect to be working from home. Instagram is awash with images of so-called "She Sheds". Emma discusses the attraction with Joanne Harris who writes from her shed and Gill Heriz, author of A Woman's Shed. What does it say about society when protestors threaten to rape their enemies’ mothers and daughters? This is what happened in North London at the weekend when protestors waving Palestinian flags passed through a Jewish community in Finchley. Four men have now been arrested on suspicion of racially aggravated public order offences. We look at the wider issue of how rape is threatened as a common insult, used for revenge in gangs and in the wider context of war. Emma talks to the writer and feminist activist Julie Bindel and to the historian Sir Antony Beevor. This week the government has announced a range of measures to protect the environment, from banning peat in garden centres to increasing the rate of tree planting and reversing the loss of species diversity. A 10p charge on single-use plastic bags will also come into force on Friday. But what difference will these policies - and others made in the run-up to COP26 - make to the crisis facing nature and the climate? Emma Barnett speaks to Environment Minister Rebecca Pow. Five years after China scrapped its one-child policy in favour of allowing families to have two children, the country's population growth has slumped to the lowest levels seen since the early 1960s. What's behind China's falling birth rate? We hear from Dr Ye Liu, a senior lecturer in international development at Kings College London. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley Image by Nicolette Hallett © CICO Books, taken from A Woman's Shed by Gill Heriz

Police abuse supercomplaint, Alice in Wonderland Exhibition and Consensual non-monogamy May 19, 2021

Since the first publication of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland in 1865, the books have never been out of print and remain one of the most influential texts in the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum are opening their show Alice: Curiouser and Curiouser this Saturday, which explores why Alice is the ultimate female icon for our times, and how she continues to be such an enduring inspiration. The curator, Kate Bailey and artist and designer Kristjana Williams join Emma to discuss her appeal. In the past, open-relationships might have conjured up the vision of keys in a bowl at the end of the night. But today, the terms polyamorous and consensually non-monogamous are increasingly normalised when it comes to relationships and dating. They describe people who are involved in, or are looking for relationships with more than one partner, with the understanding that one person cannot always be expected to meet all of your needs. And for some people, monogamy just doesn’t work for them. We hear from three people who all describe themselves as non-monogamous, about whether as a society we are accepting of open-relationships. Since a supercomplaint was made last year about domestic abuse by police officers, dozens more women have come forward to say they are affected. The centre for women's justice is still waiting for an outcome to its complaint. But wants the way these cases are dealt with to be drastically changed. We talk to a woman who suffered abuse from her police officer husband. And to Nogah Ofer, the solicitor, woman who is leading the complaint.

Women spies; Kelly Gough; Lisa Keogh; Second chances; Home abortion rules May 18, 2021

Despite a long and courageous history of female spies, the UK's secret intelligence agencies - MI5, MI6 and GCHQ - are still overwhelmingly dominated by men. The head of GCHQ, Jeremy Fleming, has committed his agency to up its efforts to 'attract talented women' as part of a wider focus on increasing diversity and inclusion. But will more women in the intelligence services make us safer? Not necessarily, says Sally Walker, who was until recently one of the most senior women at GCHQ and the creator of the UK's National Cyber Force. She talks to Emma about her take on diversifying the world of spies, and what's really needed to keep us safe from the constant, often invisible threats to the UK's national security. This week we're allowed to do more and more, as lockdown eases further. Hug with caution, have a meal inside a restaurant, a drink inside a pub and go to the theatre. One theatre that pulled up the curtain last night is the Bush Theatre in London with a play called Harm. It's a monologue, and the actress who carries it is Kelly Gough. She joins Emma to explain how it felt after such a long imposed break from treading the boards. A 29 year old Scottish law student says she’s being investigated by her University because of comments she’s made about men and women. In her University lectures - done online - she's said women are weaker than men, and women are women because they have reproductive organs. Lisa Keogh is in her final few days at Abertay University in Dundee where she's been studying law for four years. She speaks to Emma. The number of children in care in England is at its highest since 1985 and it's rising. A mother's addiction to drugs and alcohol is often one of the issues and domestic violence is a factor in many cases. The reporter and DJ Milly Chowles became a mum at 40 last year, she’s in recovery from addiction and feels she was given lots of chances to change. Her fear is that women now aren’t getting those opportunities and the impact on them, their children and society is devastating. Today, the story of a woman who has come full circle - there are references to suicide. Back in March 2020, during the first lockdown, abortion regulations were relaxed in England, Scotland and Wales to allow telemedical early medical abortion care, before ten weeks’ gestation. This has meant that women have been able to continue to access abortion care during the pandemic by having medication posted to them following a telephone consultation with a qualified nurse or midwife. And more than 100,000 women have done so. Before this women had to go to a clinic for a face-to-face consultation before an early abortion. Charities and medical bodies working across sexual and reproductive health have now signed an open letter to Health Secretary Matt Hancock, calling for these temporary measures to be made permanent in England. Lesley Regan, Past President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, and signatory to the letter, joins Emma to discuss.

Griff, Typo-Squatting, Ece Temelkuran, Windrush Compensation Scheme, Public loos May 17, 2021

Replacing traditional male only or female only toilets with gender neutral facilities has increased in recent years. Theatres were some of the first venues to hit the headlines. Many businesses and companies followed suit, partly as a way of making toilets easier to use for people identifying a gender different to the one assigned at birth, but also in an attempt to reduce the long queues outside women’s loos. But now Communities Secretary, Robert Jenrick is to rewrite planning regulations forcing public buildings to have separate male and female toilets. Is this change a step forward or back? Emma discusses the issues with Sarah Ditum, critic and columnist and the author Caroline Criado Perez. Described as “A fierce and distinctive talent” 20 year old Griff was recently announced as the recipient of the prestigious BRITs Rising Star Award, following past winners such as Celeste, Sam Smith and Adele. Griff has also been nominated for an Ivor Novello award and ended 2020 by singing the sound-track for Disney's Christmas advert. She performs a special version of her song Black Hole for Woman’s Hour. She tells Emma about her 'bedroom pop', new mixtape One Foot in Front of the Other, and how she literally learned to walk a tight rope. The Windrush scandal first came to light in April 2018. Despite living and working in the UK for decades, many were told they were there illegally because of a lack of official paperwork. A year later the Windrush Compensation Scheme was launched. Last week it announced that it has now paid out more than £14 million in compensation and has offered a further £12 million. Jacqueline McKenzie is a lawyer representing 200 victims. She says the big scandal is that so few people who are eligible for compensation are actually coming forward. Ece Temelkuran is an award-winning Turkish novelist and political commentator. Her last book, How to Lose a Country: the 7 steps from Democracy to Dictatorship, describes the rise of populism and authoritarianism in Turkey and other countries with a refrain to western countries not to be complacent about their own democracies. Now she has a new book out, Together: 10 Choices for a Better Now. Ece joins Emma to talk about why she thinks our current systems are in crisis but why she still has faith that humans are capable of reinventing themselves & the world around them. “Typo-squatting” is when a website address is deliberately misspelled, in order to mimic another URL. It’s often used in cyber-fraud and for counterfeit goods. Kim McCabe, who runs a not for profit website offering safety advice to young girls, got in touch. She’s found multiple websites with almost identical domain names to hers, all containing pornography. The government’s upcoming Online Safety Bill is set to introduce new legislation to tackle harmful content online, but there is currently nothing to stop harmful typo-squatting. Why is it easier to stop a website selling fake designer bags, than deliberately leading children to pornographic material? Emma talks to Kim and hears more on the issues from Dr Victoria Baines, a cybercrime and online safety researcher. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley

Weekend Woman’s Hour: Mona Eltahawy; Scarlett Moffatt; Female astronauts May 15, 2021

Egyptian-American writer and activist Mona Eltahawy believes women should start actively defying and disrupting the patriarchy now - with force if necessary. Mona explains why she wrote her new book ‘The Seven Necessary Sins for Women and Girls’ with enough 'rage to fuel a rocket.' Tech entrepreneur, Tabitha Goldstaub who chairs the UK's AI Council and Carly Kind, director of the Ada Lovelace Institute, discuss concerns that because Artificial Intelligence algorithms are created from the data we give it, biases in society will be replicated and even amplified by it in the future. TV presenter Jan Leeming and dating expert Charly Lester share tips and advice on how to go about dating in your late 60’s. Scarlett Moffatt, famous for Gogglebox and winning I'm A Celebrity, has just become an ambassador for the Samaritans. She talks about how reality television has affected her mental health, and exchanges experiences with Montana Brown who appeared on Love Island. The last time the European Space Agency recruited for their Class of 2009, only 16% of applications came from women. One of the women chosen, Samantha Cristoforetti, talks about the ESA's latest recruitment drive and what skills are needed to make it in space. Iranian artist Mentrix talks about her new single and video '99 Names of God', a well-known Muslim chant, traditionally sung by men during Ramadan. Mentrix explains the ideas behind the accompanying video which has generated a lot of criticism, with some people describing it as offensive, disrespectful and sinful. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Kirsty Starkey

Mentrix; Tech safety in domestic abuse; Sam Roddick; Dating over 60 May 14, 2021

Last year the avant-garde Iranian artist Mentrix released the critically acclaimed album My Enemy, My Love. The tracks Walk and Nature had accompanying cinematic videos, that explored themes of womanhood, solidarity and spirituality, against the backdrop of the horizons of the Iranian desert. Mentrix has now released the single and video 99 Names of God - a well-known Muslim chant, traditionally sung by men during Ramadan, giving it a poetic and feminine context and challenging traditions that forbid women to unveil, dance and sing. The accompanying video is visually striking, but has generated a lot of criticism, with some people describing it as offensive, disrespectful and sinful. Mentrix joins Anita to explain the ideas behind it. This week the domestic abuse charity, Refuge launched a Tech Safety site to help women recognise signs of tech abuse. They say smartphones, tablets, laptops and other electronic devices provide abusers with a means to monitor, contact and stalk vulnerable women and girls, meaning even innocuous devices including games consoles and children’s connected toys can be control and isolate victims. Ruth Davison, CEO of Refuge explains how. Aisha Gill, Professor of Criminology at Roehampton University, expert on violence against women & children in Black and minoritised communities joins her. A listener emailed us, wanting to know how she should go about dating in her late 60’s. So we discuss advice and tips for entering the dating world in older age, and post-lockdown, with dating expert Charly Lester and TV presenter Jan Leeming. Sam Roddick’s mother Anita founded the Body Shop chain in the 1970's, and her father Gordon joined what soon became a multi-million pound business. But the Roddicks famously gave away most of the money they made to causes they believed in, and they raised awareness too - in particular in the 1990’s highlighting the indigenous peoples of Brazil, whose land and way of life was under threat and who were fighting back. Anita Roddick died in 2007, and three years ago, having had her own successful career in business, Sam decided to take on her parents' legacy. She is now reviving their work with indigenous peoples, and in a new project called Choose Earth is focusing funds on female community leaders in the Amazon and elsewhere in Brazil.

Scarlett Moffatt, Patricia Devlin, Gender and AI May 13, 2021

There's to be an inquiry into the Covid pandemic. It will start in Spring next year. We speak to one of the women who's been pushing for it, but still thinking it's starting too late. Her name is Jean Adamson from the Covid-19 Bereaved families For Justice. Scarlett Moffatt, famous for Gogglebox and winning I'm A Celebrity ... has just become an ambassador for The Samaritans. She talks to Woman's Hour about how reality television has affected her mental health, and exchanges experiences with Montana Brown who appeared on Love Island. One of the things they talk about is whether reality TV does enough to support young women who choose to go on these shows. Patricia Devlin is a crime journalist in Northern Ireland. She specialises in investigating paramilitary criminal activity. Because of her work, Patricia has suffered continuous threats to her life but now her baby son has been targeted for the second time. She tells us how she's coping and how she wants the PSNI to take these threats more seriously. Artificial intelligence is everywhere. AI is playing a part in how we all work, live and play. But there are worries that because AI algorithms are created from the data we give it, biases in society will be replicated and even amplified by it in the future. Both the The European Union and the UK government are working on strategies to address this. Emma talks to the tech entrepreneur Tabitha Goldstaub who Chairs the UK's AI Council and to Carly Kind the Director of the Ada Lovelace Institute.

Female Astronauts, Second Chances, Jackie Weaver, Celebs and the male gaze May 12, 2021

A total of 65 women have been into space - compared with 501 men. The last time the European Space Agency recruited for their Class of 2009, only 16% of applications came from women. That process led to Just one - Samantha Cristoforetti of Italy - being chosen. In a break from training for a 2022 mission to the International Space Station, Samantha joins Emma to discuss why so few women apply to be astronauts, the skills needed to make it in space, and how women can put themselves forward for ESA's latest recruitment drive. Jackie Weaver of local council zoom meeting fame talks about her night at the BRITS. Our series Second Chances continues. This time we hear how a mother's addiction and domestic violence are often factors in a child's removal. The reporter and DJ Milly Chowles became a mum last year, she’s in long term recovery from addiction and had lots of chances to change. Having a baby after getting into recovery made her realise that other mothers aren't getting the help they need or that they just aren't able to take it when it's offered. And after Taylor Swift talked about the challenges of being a woman in the public eye at the BRITS last night, we ask if women really can be anything they want? Can they change their image and wear and do what they want? We talk to Emily Clarkson and Dr. Jacki Willson. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineers: Nigel Dix & Donald MacDonald.

Mona Eltahawy on embracing female anger; Maternal ambivalence; Women in the Senedd May 11, 2021

'We need to dismantle the patriarchy' is a familiar feminist rallying cry. But Egyptian-American writer and activist Mona Eltahawy believes we should stop just saying it, and start actively defying and disrupting the patriarchy now - with force if necessary. Mona's latest book is The Seven Necessary Sins for Women and Girls. She joins Emma to explain why she wrote it with enough 'rage to fuel a rocket.' In a recent article, writer and travel editor at the Independent, Cathy Adams said she wished the phrase 'I sometimes resent my baby' went down better at the pub. She describes imagining an alternate life without her son at the centre, and how thirteen months after her son's birth she's still struggling to articulate her feelings because of the lack of language surrounding maternal ambivalence. Cathy joins Emma - along with Amy Brown, a Professor of Child Public Health - to discuss these conflicting emotions and why we find it so hard to openly talk about the challenges of being a parent. In Thursday’s Elections in Wales Natasha Asghar made history by becoming the first woman from a Black or Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) background to be elected to the Welsh Senedd. She’ll represent South Wales East for the Tories – a seat held by her dad until his death last year. However the overall number of women elected was down on the last Election. Emma talks to Natasha about what the victory means to her and how she feels about following in her father’s footsteps. Plus Jess Blair from the Electoral Reform Society Wales tells us why more needs to be done to make sure that we see more women coming through.

Singer-songwriter Dodie, TikTok and domestic workers in the Middle East May 10, 2021

How domestic workers in the Middle East are using the video sharing app TikTok to raise awareness of abuse. Louise Donovan from the Fuller Project tells us how she found these women and why they are turning to TikTok. Dodie has just released her debut album Build A Problem. At just 26 she has already made a name for herself as a singer and a writer amassing millions of fans through her Youtube Channel with her intimate singing style and honest unflinching videos. She joins Emma to play a song from her new album. Yolk & Aliens is a film project created and developed by four women including actor, Jane Horrocks and her daughter, musician, Molly Vivian. Set within what they call a 'personal memory shop' in central Brighton’s Dukes Lane, as part of this year’s Brighton Festival, it is a highly personal insight into families, love and memories. Several years in the making, the films explore multi-generational relationships between mother and daughter, Jane and Molly and between Jane and her mother, Barbara.

Weekend Woman's Hour: Tracey Emin; Susan Rogers, Prince's sound engineer; Panic attacks May 08, 2021

Tracey Emin was one of the leading figures of the Young British Artists movement of the 1990s. She has recently undergone radical surgery to treat bladder cancer. For her latest exhibition - The Loneliness of the Soul – she has selected masterpieces by Edvard Munch to show alongside her most recent paintings. Mental health blogger and author of ‘F**K I Think I'm Dying: How I learned to live with panic’, Claire Eastham explains how she manages her panic attacks. She is joined by psychotherapist Dawn Estefan to discuss why we have panic attacks, how they feel and how best to cope with them. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or if you're completely new to cycling, there's no doubt it's intimidating on the roads. Cycling expert, Aneela McKenna shares tips for how women can feel more confident while riding their bikes on the road. Rosie Ayliffe’s daughter, Mia Ayliffe Chung was killed in 2016 at a remote farmworkers’ hostel while backpacking in Australia. Since Mia's death Rosie has been campaigning to improve conditions for young casual workers, helping to change the law in three of the six states of Australia. What's behind the decline in male fertility? The global population currently stands at 7.9 billion, and is projected to peak at 9.7 billion in just over 40 years' time. Those huge numbers are often blamed on women having too many children. In reality, fertility has been in long-term decline for decades. Dr Shanna Swan, Professor of Environmental Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York thinks we should be paying much more attention to the chemicals in our environment that come from everyday products as her research is showing consistent effects on sperm counts, sperm quality and overall male fertility. Susan Rogers talks about what it was like working with Prince as his sound engineer on albums including ‘Purple Rain, ‘Around the World in a Day and ‘Sign o’ the Times’. After two decades in the music industry she left and went on to earn a doctorate in psychology. She’s now a professor of music at Berkeley College in Boston, and is being awarded the Music Producers Guild’s ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music’– the first woman to ever win the award. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or if you're completely new to cycling, there's no doubt it's intimidating on the roads. Cycling expert Aneela McKenna shares tips for how women can feel more confident when riding their bikes. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Sarah Crawley

Covid in India; Susan Rogers, Prince's sound engineer; panic attacks; the novel Careless May 07, 2021

India remains in the grip of a Covid crisis with record numbers of cases being reported every day. Oxygen and vaccines are running out and hospitals are overwhelmed. Save The Children has warned it could be facing thousands of additional deaths among children under five and an increase in maternal deaths, as hospitals and clinics are directing most of its staff and medicines to coping with Covid-19 patients. We hear from Dr Rajesh Khanna about the work he is doing to help women and children access vital healthcare. And here in the UK thousands of people continue to worry about the safety and well-being of their loved ones in India. Surya Elango a community reporter at BBC Radio Sheffield joins Anita to share those broader concerns and also the story of her own mother who has been in India since December looking after her elderly parent. Susan Rogers tells us what it was like working with the 80s pop artist Prince as his sound engineer on albums including ‘Purple Rain, ‘Around the World in a Day and ‘Sign o’ the Times’. After two decades in the music industry Susan Rogers left and went on to earn a doctorate in psychology. She’s now a professor of music at Berklee College in Boston, and is being awarded the Music Producers Guild’s ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music’– the first woman to ever win the award. ‘Careless’ is the debut novel by Kirsty Capes and tells the story of Bess a girl in foster care and looks at the treatment of girls in the care system. Kirsty Capes was herself a care leaver and tells us about her PHD which examines the representation of care experienced children in contemporary fiction. She explains why she would like to see better portrayal in the media of people growing up in care and what it was like working under the supervision of Booker prize winning author Bernadine Evaristo. And the mental health blogger and author of ‘We're All Mad Here’, Claire Eastham has now written a new book, ‘F**K I Think I'm Dying: How I learned to live with panic’. She explains how she manages her own panic attacks which she’s had for nearly a decade. She joins Anita with psychotherapist Dawn Estefan to discuss panic attacks, why we have them, how they feel and how best to cope with them. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed

Anya Hindmarch, Women on Boards, Rosie Aycliffe, Ruthie Henshall on Care Homes May 06, 2021

In 2016 Mia Ayliffe Chung was killed at a remote farmworkers’ hostel while backpacking in Australia. What she didn’t realise at the time and what her mum Rosie Ayliffe later discovered was backpackers like Mia were exposed to widespread exploitation including sexual harassment, inadequate health and safety and substandard living conditions. Since Mia's death Rosie has been campaigning to improve conditions for young casual workers, helping to change the law in three of the six states of Australia. She has written a book about Mia called Far From Home. Anya Hindmarch is an entrepreneur, a global business woman, mother of five and a stepmother. Now she's turned 50 she's turned her hand to writing - putting together A Manual for Life with the very tongue in cheek title "If In Doubt Wash Your Hair". In the UK now more than a third (34.3%) of FTSE 350 board positions are now held by women. But what do boards do? And how can you get on one? To discuss these questions Emma is joined by Dambisa Moyo, renowned economist, named as one of Time Magazine's Top 100 Most Influential People in the World and author of a new book How Boards Work; and Fiona Hathorn, CEO of Women on Boards UK. As of Tuesday this week residents leaving their care home to go for a walk or to visit a loved one’s garden no longer have to isolate for two weeks on their return. But actor Ruthie Henshall is concerned about the potential ‘grey area’ around this relaxation of the rules which could continue to limit some families’ access. Ruthie, along with the group Rights for Residents, has delivered a petition with 300,000 signatures to the House of Commons. She explains her concerns and what she would like the government to do. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley

Tracey Emin; Women and Nightclubs; Young Children and Mental Health May 05, 2021

Tracey Emin was one of the leading figures of the Young British Artists movement of the 1990s. Hers is a uniquely provocative, confessional style which confronts issues such as trauma of abortion, rape, alcoholism and sexual history. Her famous artworks include: Everyone I Have Ever Slept With 1963–1995 and she came to greater prominence in 1999 with a Turner Prize nomination for her famous piece My Bed. One of her most powerful works is a hand-crafted quilt called Psycho Slut, with texts that recall her childhood abuse and personal trauma. She has recently undergone radical surgery for bladder cancer. Tracey joins Emma to discuss her latest exhibition - The Loneliness of the Soul – for which she has selected masterpieces by Edvard Munch to show alongside her most recent paintings. Last weekend the first nightclub event in the UK for over a year took place in Liverpool - with no social distancing or face coverings required. This was part of a trial to provide key scientific data on how clubbing events could safely reopen as part of the government's roadmap, which aims for all restrictions lifted by June 21. But could this be a fresh start and a chance to re-imagine how nightlife could be reopened in a way that makes women feel safer? Although clubs can be places where women have a lot of fun and let their hair down, we also know they can be intimidating spaces. Bryony Beynon is the Managing Director of the Good Night Out Campaign, Alice Fuller is the manager and co-ordinator of Corsica studios at Elephant and Castle in London and Jess Flaherty is a reporter for the Liverpool Echo who actually went clubbing last weekend. How can you better communicate with your child, whatever their age, to help ensure they have good future mental health? The broadcaster and author of 'There’s no such thing as Naughty’ Kate Silverton, and Dr Sheila Redfern from the Anna Freud Centre discuss.

Male fertility; Gordon Brown on global vaccination; Celebrating Ailsa Burkimsher Sadler and Caroline Norton. May 04, 2021

Fertility rates around the world are declining. It's partly through choice, as couples decide to have smaller families. But it's also the case that sperm levels among men in Western countries have halved in the past 40 years. . So what's going on? Shanna Swan, a Professor of Environmental Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York thinks we should be paying much more attention to the chemicals in our environment that come from everyday products - as her research is showing consistent effects on sperm counts, sperm quality and overall male fertility. She joins Emma to talk the chemicals we should be aware of, the effect they're having, and what we can do about it. World leaders have been warned that unless they act with extreme urgency, the pandemic will overwhelm health services in many nations in South America, Asia, and Africa over the next few weeks. It's argued that failure to achieve so-called global 'vaccine equity' will hit women hardest, because they dominate the informal sectors that have been worst affected by the pandemic and it's women who do most of the increased unpaid care in the home that Covid brings. There are also real concerns that if girls globally continue to miss out on education, gender equality goals could be set back years. Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown is leading a campaign to persuade the world's richest nations to commit to funding global Covid vaccination, testing and treatments. He joins Emma. From today, mothers' names and occupations will finally be featured alongside fathers' details on marriage certificates in England and Wales, thanks to years of campaigning both inside and outside of parliament. But let's not forget the woman who made it happen. Ailsa Burkimsher Sadler started the campaign for change back in 2013. Caroline Norton was a woman at the centre of one of the most highly publicised court cases in 19th century Britain. Her determination to fight for custody of her children and the rights to her own income and property had far-reaching ramifications, with the first ever pieces of feminist legislation arising as a direct result of her campaigning, the Infant Custody Act of 1839. She has been celebrated with a heritage blue plaque being placed on her London home. Lady Antonia Fraser unveiled the plaque, and has written a biography of Caroline Norton called ‘The Case of the Married Woman.’

Breaking barriers to cycling for women May 03, 2021

Have you always wanted to get on a bike, but something is holding you back? This is the programme for you, presented by Melanie Abbott. If you're completely new to cycling, there's no doubt it's intimidating on the roads. It's definitely worth sharpening up your road sense and many local councils now offer bike training courses. In East London, Bikeworks run cycling for wellbeing sessions for women returning to their bikes, after a long break. Melanie goes out with a group who've been cycling together now for a few weeks. Cycling is still, predominantly a male, middle class sport. Getting more women involved isn't easy, especially for women of colour. British Cycling, which covers everything from elite sport to grass roots, has set up its first ever diversity programme. and will be publishing its strategy in the coming months. Aneela McKenna is co chair of their diversity and inclusion advisory group. She joins Melanie along with Iffat Tejani, founder of Evolve, a cycling club for Muslim women and Victoria Hazael from the charity Cycling UK, who is a trustee of the Women of Colour in Cycling Collective. Many disabled women find accessing sport particularly difficult and cycling can seem completely off limits and/or too expensive. But there are inclusive cycle groups all over the country offering weekly sessions on a huge range of adapted bikes. Others arrange rentals and ‘try before you buy’. Our Disability Affairs reporter Carolyn Atkinson goes to Herne Hill Velodrome in South London where a charity called Wheels for Wellbeing runs sessions for disabled cyclists. Tracy Moseley has won countless mountain biking trophies, including the World Cup downhill in 2006. She officially retired six years ago, and had her little boy Toby three years ago. Like many keen cyclists who have children, life has changed a lot since then. Melanie gets her tips on teaching children to ride, and her views on racing with e-bikes. Even if you are not entering races you may still be keen to "Strava your ride". It's one of the apps you can use to record your speeds and compare them with others. It's traditionally used by men, competing for the 'king of the mountain' crown, to be the fastest up a hill. But last year the company says there was a surge in the number of women using it and it seems they are just as keen to get a queen of the mountain accolade. Cyclist Sally Owens agreed to record her ride for us, up a tough hill near her home in Nottingham.

Weekend Woman’s Hour: Dawn French; Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe’s sentence; Women’s Football May 01, 2021

Today if you are a woman you are likely to live into your eighties. But what to do with those extra couple of decades? Dawn French is best known for her comedy and acting and is now an author long listed for the Women’s Prize. She talks about reinvention and still being relevant at any age. Kate Wilson talks about her court case against the Metropolitan Police and the National Police Chiefs Council. She's taking the legal action because she fell in love with a man who wasn't who he said he was. He was an undercover policeman whose job was to infiltrate environmental protest groups. Women's Football is seeing a huge growth in interest and exposure but there's some concern that the commentary of women's matches is too soft on mistakes and ends up sounding patronising. Ben Bloom, Telegraph sports columnist and commentator and Jacqui Oatley commentator and founding member of Women in Football discuss whether commentary should become more critical as the success of the game develops. Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe has been sentenced to another year in an Iranian prison and has been banned from travelling abroad. Her husband, Richard Ratcliffe talks about how Nazanin felt after hearing about the sentence and what it means for their family. Betty Webb MBE is 98 years old. During WW2 she worked at Bletchely Park and briefly at the Pentagon. She talks about promoting and remembering her war time experiences. How does the order in which we are born into our families affect us and our whole lives? The writer Lynn Berger discusses why people choose to have a second child and what does it mean to be one. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Lucinda Montefiore

Morris Dancing, Jacqui Oatley & Ben Bloom, Maya Foa & Andrew Mitchell MP, Bletchley veteran Betty Webb Apr 30, 2021

Anita Rani talks to Boss Morris the all-female Morris dancing team based in Gloucester who'll be marking May Day by leading a livestreamed dance. We hear from Bletchley Park veteran Betty Webb and discuss the issue of female football commentary and whether it needs to should become more critical as the success of the game develops. Around 15 British families remain detained in North East Syria. A new report released today by the NGO Reprieve suggests that the majority of British women there are victims of trafficking, based on evidence that these women were all subjected to sexual and other forms of exploitation, and were either transported to Syria as children; coerced into travelling to Syria; or kept and moved within Syria against their will. Andrew Mitchell MP and Maya Foa from Reprieve discuss the report. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineers: John Boland and Bob Nettles.

Arlene Foster, Kate Wilson, Kelly Critcher Apr 29, 2021

Arlene Foster, First Minister of Northern Ireland and leader of the DUP, has stood down. She was the first woman and the youngest person to hold both jobs. In her resignation announcement she said that her election as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party broke a glass ceiling, and she also spoke about the trolling she's received. We discuss what her legacy will be. Kate Wilson has been giving evidence at The Royal Courts of Justice because she's suing The Metropolitan Police and the National Police Chiefs Council. She's taking legal action because she fell in love with a man who wasn't who he said he was. He was an undercover policeman who called himself Mark Stone. He was really Mark Kennedy whose job was to infiltrate environmental protest groups. Kate will have to wait until later in the year to get a result but she explains why she's taken the action. We talk to Kelly Critcher, who's a palliative care nurse. She works at the first hospital in the UK to declare a critical incident of Covid 19. She's written a book called A Matter of Life and Death: courage, compassion and the fight against the corona virus on the front-line. And do you share the bath water? TV property developer, Sarah Beeny, does. She gets in the bath after her husband and four sons. Sarah tells us why.

Dawn French, Claire Findlay, Second Chances, Caroline Slocock Apr 28, 2021

Emma Barnett talks to Dawn French about her fourth novel "Because of You" which has been longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction and we'll find out later today if it's made the shortlist. She'll also be talking about the post-menopausal years when women often say they feel invisible, afraid of change, unemployable or just plain 'past it'. If you're an Archers listener you'll be familiar with Alice's story of having a baby as an alcoholic and the stigma and struggle she faces. Our reporter Milly Chowles had a baby last year. She’s in long -term recovery from addiction and feels she was given lots of chances to change. Her fear is that women now aren’t getting those opportunities and the impact on them, their children and society is devastating. In 2011 there were 65,520 children in care in England and at the end of March 2020 that figure was more than 80,000. Addiction is often a factor. Today, we hear a Dad's story. It's nearly 30 years since the start of the Bosnia-Hercevgovina war, a conflict that saw the worst atrocities in Europe since World War II. About 100,000 were killed and over 2 million were displaced between 1992 and 1995.Watching the coverage on the news, thousands of miles away in Fochabars in North East Scotland was Clare Findlay and her husband Andrew who ended up taking in 21 Bosnian children and four mothers into their home. Her story features in a new series ‘Saved by A Stranger which tells the story of people caught up in some of the biggest events in history. And Caroline Slocock the Director of Civil Exchange and the first woman Private Secretary at No 10 serving Margaret Thatcher talks about the current "curtaingate" row at Westminster. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: Donald MacDonald.

Nazanin's sentence and women's rights in Iran, The Barbizon Hotel, Orgasms Apr 27, 2021

We now know that Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe has been sentenced to another year in an Iranian prison, plus she's banned from travelling abroad. This time she's charged with spreading propaganda. Her husband, Richard Ratcliffe, has not seen his wife since her initial imprisonment in 2016 and is living in London with their six year old daughter Gabriella. He maintains that his wife was imprisoned as leverage for a debt owed by the UK over its failure to deliver tanks to Iran in the seventies that had been paid for. Meanwhile, it's been announced that Iran will sit on a UN committee on women's rights, yet it has a poor track record when it comes to rights for women. Rana Rahimpour is from the BBC's Persian Service. Built in 1927 The Barbizon hotel was home for the ‘modern woman’ seeking a career in the arts. It offered young women a safe and respectable place to stay while they launched their careers and looked for a husband. Students from the Katharine Gibbs Secretarial School lived on two floors of the Barbizon while they learned typing and shorthand. Powers’ models and guest editors for Mademoiselle magazine also stayed there. Many went on to writing careers, including Joan Didion, Sylvia Plath, Gael Greene, and Meg Wolitzer. In her novel “The Bell Jar,” Plath fictionalized the Barbizon as the Amazon, including details from her fateful last night at the hotel, when she threw every article of clothing she had brought to the city. Its 688 tiny pink feminine boudoirs also housed actresses including Grace Kelly and Liza Minelli and Phylicia Rashad. Some residents became known as “the women” – those who checked in and never checked out. Emma talks to Paulina Bren, writer and historian and Professor at Vassar College in New York, and author of The Barbizon- The New York Hotel That Set Women Free. It’s reported that during sex only 20% of women orgasm from penetration alone. Results from a nationally representative study of 4,000 adult women in the United States, and published in the science journal Plos One, identified Angling, Rocking, Shallowing and Pairing – four previously unnamed techniques women use to make vaginal penetration more pleasurable. To discuss these terms and other ways women can achieve orgasm, Emma is joined by Dr. Devon Hensel Assistant Professor of Sociology at the University of Indiana, and Tracey Cox, sex and relationships expert and author.

Breast cancer and cognitive behavioural therapy, The history of make-up, Second children Apr 26, 2021

New research out today from the charity Breast Cancer Now, indicates that training breast care nurses to deliver Cognitive Behavioural Therapy - or CBT - can be effective in alleviating the distressing menopausal symptoms that some women experience as a result of breast cancer treatment. Emma discusses with Delyth Morgan, Chief Executive of Breast Cancer Now and Natalie, who had breast cancer aged 37, and suffered frequent and debilitating hot flushes and night sweats while undergoing chemotherapy. A new three-part BBC Two documentary series ‘Makeup: A Glamorous History’ explores changing British beauty trends, from the Georgian era, Victorian era through to the Roaring 20s where the look of the flappers reflected the new freedoms of the era. The presenter of the series is make up artist Lisa Eldridge. Why do people choose to have a second child and what does it mean to be one? Writer Lynn Berger in her book Second Thoughts: On Having and Being a Second Child, explores the many beliefs and assumptions surrounding position in the family and particularly second children. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour: Julia Gillard on girls' education; Pauline Black of The Selecter; Dogs in Lockdown Apr 24, 2021

We hear from former Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard who is working to help children from developing countries get a quality education. Josephine Kamara and Selina Nkoile are Youth Leaders for Global Partnership for Education and are campaigning to keep girls in education. Pauline Black, lead singer of ska band The Selecter talks about her upbringing and the 2 Tone anti-racism message of the late 70s. Professor Basky Thilaganathan from St George’s Hospital talks about the rarely seen and often complex work being carried out inside the womb to save the lives of unborn babies. We also hear from Susie who developed Twin to Twin transfusion syndrome while pregnant with triplets. Christine Grosart is a key volunteer for the group Ghost Fishing UK. She is also an expert diver and environmental champion. She talks about the beauty of the seas and the damage humans have caused. Plus broadcaster Emily Dean on the trend for ‘pandemic puppies’ and the unique relationship that women have with their dogs. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Beverley Purcell

Daphne Oram - one of electronic music's female pioneers Apr 23, 2021

In 'Come Fly the World', journalist Julia Cooke explores the history and legacy of Pan Am, one of the world’s most iconic airlines. Julia focuses on the adventurous lives and careers of the international jet-age stewardesses of Pan Am – a job which no longer exists - who were expected to fit a specific physical profile, speak multiple languages and demonstrate diplomacy. As the women worked to maintain the glamourous image of Pan Am, they interacted with international politicians and helped to transport American soldiers to and from war zones, during the Vietnam War. The stewardesses witnessed global history and world events, playing a crucial role in major wartime missions including the evacuation of children during the fall of Saigon. Throughout the pandemic, pregnant women have been asked to make their own judgements on the risk of vaccination versus the risks of COVID-19. With very little real-world data available, that decision has been no easy task however two new large scale studies may now help prospective parents feel more confident in balancing the costs and benefits. One study of over 35,000 pregnant women given the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines showed no evidence of them being unsafe. The second study looked at what happens to pregnant women if they do catch COVID-19. Aris Papageorghiou, a Professor of Fetal Medicine at the Oxford Maternal and Perinatal Health Institute, talks to Anita about the results of this global study. He also explains why we should consider allowing pregnant women to be vaccinated sooner, rather than making them wait for their age-related invite to arrive in the post. Hair removal is a rite of passage for a lot of women and apparently some influencers are encouraging shaving your face! Apparently facial hair removal is nothing new - Queen Elizabeth I started the trend by shaving her facial hair, and women even shaved their eyebrows off. So how popular is it with women today? Beauty therapist and make up artist Naveeda discusses. A new film called 'Sisters With Transistors' about the unsung female pioneers of electronic music, is released today. Featuring women like Clara Rockmore, Suzanne Ciani and Delia Derbyshire, of Dr Who theme fame, the film is narrated by Laurie Anderson and celebrates the achievements of women whose male counterparts took centre stage in historical narratives around ground-breaking electronic composition. The director Lisa Rovner joins Anita as does Bishi, the singer, composer and artistic director and co-founder of WITCiH, The Women in Technology Creative Industries Hub, a platform to increase the visibility women at the intersection of music, creative technology and STEM. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Professor Aris Papageorghiou Interviewed Guest: Naveeda Interviewed Guest: Julia Cooke Interviewed Guest: Lisa Rovner Interviewed Guest: Bishi

Diver Christine Grosart on 'Ghost Fishing'; Katya Adler discusses Annalena Baerbock; Teenage drinking research; Foetal medicine Apr 22, 2021

Angela Merkel steps down as Chancellor or Prime minister of Germany in September. Nicknamed Mutti or mummy she has held the top job since 2005 so her departure is a huge shift at a challenging time in global and national politics. All eyes are focused on possible successors and one candidate in the frame is Annalena Baerbock. On Monday, the Green Party announced she would be its choice to take over from Angela Merkel. She is likely to be the only woman in the race for the job and she already being compared to young female leaders in New Zealand or Finland. Anita Rani talks to the BBC’s Europe Editor Katya Adler about the coming election and the chances of a second woman taking the top job. Research by a London academic suggests that teenagers who are heavy social media users are more likely to drink alcohol. Dr Linda Ng Fat from University College London analysed data on how long teenagers were chatting or interacting on social media sites including Facebook, MySpace and Bebo and what impact that had on drinking. The study found that 18% of participants aged 10-15 years drank at least monthly, with a greater risk of more frequent drinking for each additional hour of social media use. Anita talks to Dr Ning Fat who explains her findings Filmed at one of the UK’S leading foetal medicine units in the country, a new Channel 4 series, Baby Surgeons: Delivering Miracles, shines a light on the rarely seen and often complex work being carried out inside the womb to save the lives of unborn babies. Anita is joined by Basky Thilaganathan, Professor and Director of Foetal Medicine at St George’s Hospital London and Susie, who developed Twin to Twin transfusion syndrome while pregnant with triplets. The pandemic has allowed many people to appreciate and connect with nature in a way they didn't have time to before. But as an island nation, our knowledge of the struggles faced by the life in our seas is still very poor. Every year the fishing industry inadvertently loses nets and gear that end up trapping and killing marine wildlife. But thankfully there is a team of volunteer divers who are dedicated to finding and removing this 'ghost gear' from UK waters. In celebration of Earth Day, Anita speaks to Christine Grosart from Ghost Fishing UK about the under-appreciated wonders around our coastline, the perils of retrieving lost nets, and what non-diving folk can do to make a big difference to the health of our seas. Presented by Anita Rani Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Sexist abuse of MPs, Town Crier Brenda Willison, Vanessa Frake on The Governor, Second Chances Apr 21, 2021

Vanessa Frake worked in the prison service for 27 years. For 16 of those years she was the head of security and operations at the notorious male prison Wormwood Scrubs. Her career saw her cross paths with some of Britain's most notorious criminals. She was the main officer responsible for serial killer Rose West whilst she awaited trial, she was made a cup of tea by Myra Hindley, and she looked after Pete Doherty. Vanessa was awarded an MBE for her work in the prison service in 2012, and took early retirement in 2013. She has now written her memoirs in 'The Governor: My Life in Britain's Most Notorious Prisons'. This year the British town crier championships will be held in silence. Brenda Willison has been a town crier for 34 years. Based in Newmarket, Suffolk she’s been the Chair of the Loyal Company of Town Criers for the last 10 years. Last year their annual competition was cancelled so this year they decided to hold one online which only involves the content of the crying and the winner will be announced on May 13th. She explains to Anita why she thinks women make the best town criers. MPs believe there is a growing ‘digital threat to democracy’ which is preventing women from a career in politics. Yesterday in parliament there was a call for more action with female MPs from all sides recounting their experiences. Academic studies have shown that harassment against women has increased over the past two general elections, with women experiencing double the increase that men have experienced. Reporter Melanie Abbott talks to Anita about the issues. And we have the second in our series Second Chances. Our reporter Milly Chowles had a baby last year, she’s in long term recovery from addiction and feels she was given lots of chances to change before she became a mother. As the number of children in care rises and with drug and alcohol issues a factor in many cases, are women at risk of having their children removed getting the help they need? And what is the cost for their children and society as a whole if they don't? In five authored pieces Milly tells her story and listens to the experiences of mothers who face stigma and a fight to access services.

Dogs of Lockdown; Teachers assaulted by pupils; Family reconciliation; Lady Mary Wortley Montagu Apr 20, 2021

With the surge in people getting dogs during lockdown, Emily Dean, broadcaster and host of ‘Walking The Dog with Emily Dean’ joins Anita to discuss her shih-tzu called Raymond, the trend for ‘pandemic puppies’ and the unique relationship between women and their dogs. Newspaper reports from the weekend suggest that Prince Charles, Harry, William and Kate spent a couple of hours at Frogmore Cottage after the funeral of Prince Phillip on Saturday, presumably hoping to clear the air after what has been a turbulent time for the Royal family. Whatever your background - family rifts can be very painful, sometimes lasting years and often beyond anyone's memory of why they originally fell out. What should you do if you want to reconcile? How do you make that initial approach? Anita is joined by Dee Holmes, Family Counsellor with Relate and Mamta Saha, practising psychologist. More than fifteen thousand people have emailed their experiences of sexual harassment and assault in school as pupils or past pupils on the ‘Everyone‘s Invited’ website but what about assault by pupils towards teachers? We hear one female teacher’s experience of being sexually assaulted at school, and from Jennifer Moses the National Official for equality and training at the Teaching Union the NASUWT. 300 years ago this month, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu deliberately infected her three year old daughter with a dose of smallpox – in other words she inoculated her – and was the first to do so in the West. Her role in the race to halt the spread of the virus was largely unacknowledged at the time. She should be recognised for the pioneer that she was says Jo Willett who has written her biography ‘The Pioneering Life of Mary Wortley Montagu’.

Pauline Black of The Selecter, Julia Gillard on girls' education, Mothers at risk of losing their children. Apr 19, 2021

The original rude girl and ‘Queen of Ska’ Pauline Black was working as a radiographer when she came to prominence in the late 1970s as the lead singer of the 2 Tone ska revival band The Selecter. Pauline joins Anita to talk about being the only girl on tour alongside The Specials and Madness, expressing herself as a young black woman through music, playing the role of Billie Holiday and, 40 years on, the remastering the band’s album Too Much Pressure. It is estimated that 129 million girls worldwide remain out of school and face multiple barriers to education. Julia Gillard, the former Prime Minister of Australia, is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Global Partnership for Education – an organisation working with governments around the world to help children in lower-income countries get a quality education. The UK has supported eight million girls worldwide and in 100 days from now will be hosting the Global Education Summit with Kenya. Anita Rani discusses the issues with Julia and Josephine Kamara and Selina Nkoile, Youth Leaders for the GPE. In a new series of authored interviews Milly Chowles reports on women at risk of having their children removed from their care. Drug and alcohol misuse are often part of the problem. Milly, who is in recovery herself, had a baby last year. She was given many chances to change and fears that many mothers are not given the same opportunities. Today she talks to Lydia. They went to school together and took different paths in life but both ended up focussing on the stories of mothers in crisis. Presented by Anita Rani Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Weekend Woman's Hour: Dame Maureen Lipman; Women feeling the Cold; Singer Imelda May. Apr 17, 2021

Actor and writer Dame Maureen Lipman recently lost Guido Castro, her partner of more than thirteen years, having already been widowed in 2004 when her husband Jack Rosenthal died after 30 years of marriage. She tells us how you come to terms with such a loss after so long. Why do some people live in vans? Is it to save money to put down a deposit on a house or is it a lifestyle choice? We hear from George McKimm who lived in her van until 2020 and Missy who currently lives in a van with her husband, daughter and their pets. In 2018, an art and textiles teacher from a secondary school in north west London won the one million dollar Global Teacher Prize. Andria Zafirakou shares her approach to teaching and her passion for the power of visual art to create confidence and unlock trauma in young people. This month marks 18 years since the legal 'right to request' flexible working came into effect for parents of children aged under six, or 18 if they have a disability. We hear from Sarah Jackson OBE, a workplace consultant and visiting professor at Cranfield University School of Management and Rhonda D'Ambrosio who used 'right to request' in 2004. Do women really feel the cold more than men? A question for Clare Eglin, principal lecturer in Human and Applied Physiology with the University of Portsmouth. Plus Amanda Owen, Shepherdess and star of Channel 5's 'Our Yorkshire Farm' tells us about how she copes working outdoors. Irish singer, song writer Imelda May has performed alongside the like of Lou Reed, Bono, Smokey Robinson and Van Morrison. She talks about her new album new album - 11 Past the Hour – and the contributions from feminist thinkers and activists. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Beverley Purcell

Irish singer-songwriter Imelda May Apr 16, 2021

Imelda May is an Irish singer/songwriter discovered by Jools Holland when she supported him on tour and subsequently appeared on Later ... with Jools Holland in 2008. She was the queen of rockabilly, with a Fifties-style frock, trademark quiff – and a voice compared to legendary blues singers such as Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan. The quiff is long gone. She joins Anita Rani to discuss her music, her style and her latest album '11 Past the Hour' and the track 'Made to Love', with inspired contributions from feminist thinkers and activists, Gina Martin and Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu. A review into the way the justice system works in Scotland, when hearing rape and serious sexual offences, has called for new specialist courts where a judge could sit without a jury. The proposals are part of a package of measures aimed at stopping the 'retraumatisation' of victims by their experience of the court system. Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian - Scotland's second most senior judge, and Sandy Brindley, National Coordinator of Rape Crisis Scotland - one of the groups which took part in the review process - join John Scott QC, president of the Society of Solicitor Advocates. The idea of living in a van is not an unusual as you may think and many women are doing it. Search under the #vanlife on Instagram and there are over 9.5 million posts, with seductive photos of people who have refurbished cosy vans for holidays and adventures abroad but also those who have traded living in houses for a permanent life on the road. Anita is joined by George McKimm, who lived in her van from 2016 until 2020, and Missy, who currently lives with her husband Dom, daughter Rosie and their pets. They have been on the road since 2019 in their Sprinter van which they call the sub. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Imelda May Interviewed Guest: Sandy Brindley Interviewed Guest: John Scott Interviewed Guest: Valerie MacGregor Interviewed Guest: George McKimm Interviewed Guest: Missy

Catholic Church Abuse. Recycling Shaming, Maureen Lipman Apr 15, 2021

A woman who won a settlement from the Catholic Church after reporting the abuse she suffered, is now launching a personal injury claim against Westminster Diocese. It's because of a series of emails which she says describe her as needy, manipulative and a bully. She explains to Woman's Hour what she wants to achieve. A legal challenge began in the High Court this week about municipal waste incinerators. It's being brought by Georgia Elliott-Smith, an environmental engineer and campaigner, who says the level of incinerator emissions is "staggering". She hopes the legal challenge will result in a judicial review. It's The Duke of Edinburgh's funeral on Saturday. He was married to the Queen for nearly 74 years, and she's acknowledged that he will leave a ‘huge void’. But how do you come to terms with such a loss after so long? Actor, writer and comedian Dame Maureen Lipman recently lost Guido Castro, her long-term partner, having already been widowed in 2004 when her husband Jack Rosenthal died after 30 years of marriage.

Owen Paterson MP on the suicide of his wife Rose, Evy Cohen, GeorgiaElliot-Smith and music from Manika Kaur Apr 14, 2021

Emma Barnett talks to the former cabinet minister Owen Paterson about the suicide of his wife Rose and the charity he's founded in her memory. Evy Cohen talks about Prince Philip and how his mother Princess Alice saved her family from the Holocaust, Georgia Elliot-Smith asks if we should stop shaming women about waste and recyling and as Sikhs and Hindus prepare to celebrate the festival of Vaisakhi (solar new year) we talk to the singer Manika Kaur. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: Joe Yon

Shirley Williams, New Mums & Jury Service, Flexible Working Apr 13, 2021

Baroness Shirley Williams has died at the age of 90. She was a titan of British politics and a true trailblazer for women. She appeared on Woman's Hour many times and so we remember her by listening to the archive. We also speak to her good friend, Baroness Julia Neuberger. What do you do if you've just had a baby and you've been called for jury service? We speak to Zoe Stacey who recently received a letter telling her she had to do jury service but she was still breast feeding. We describes her struggle to be excused. We're talking about getting back into the swing of things now lockdown is gradually lifting. Are you desperate to get back to normal or are you feeling nervous and anxious? We talk to Dr. Nihara Krause, a consultant clinical psychologist. It's 18 years that parents have been able to request flexible working. After that the 'right to request' was made available to everyone, regardless of whether you're a parent or not. So what's been achieved and Is there still a stigma attached to it? We're joined by Sarah Jackson OBE, who's a workplace consultant and visiting professor at Cranfield University School of Management, and Rhonda D'Ambrosio who's used 'right to request' when it started.

Amanda Owen & Clare Eglin on women feeling the cold, Clare Balding on Rachael Blackmore, Pippa Wicks & teacher Andria Zafirakou Apr 12, 2021

Shepherdess Amanda Owen & the academic Clare Eglin talk about why women tend to feel colder than men. We talk to Clare Balding about Rachael Blackmore the first woman to win the Grand National this weekend. As lockdown eases and the shops reopen, we talk to the Executive Director of John Lewis Pippa Wicks and Andria Zafirakou who won a million dollar global teaching prize tells us how she's spending the money and talks about her new book "Those Who Can, Teach - What it Takes to Make the Next Generation." Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: Gayl Gordon

Weekend Woman's Hour: Body image; Caring for an abuser; Tracey Thorn on her friend Lindy Morrison Apr 10, 2021

The 2011 Census found that 6.5 million people in the UK are carers and provide unpaid care by looking after an ill, older or disabled family member, friend or partner. It found that women are more likely to be carers than men, with 58% of carers being female and 42% male. Emily Holzhausen, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Carers UK and Alyson Corner, psychologist and co-runs the 'My Horrid Parent' website discuss carers who have a relationship with the person they are caring for that involves a history of abuse. A parliamentary report into body image has just been published. The Women's and Equalities Committee has been looking into why so many people feel dissatisfied about the way they look. We hear from Caroline Nokes MP, Chair of the committee. Tatyana Findlater who's 21 and has visible burn scars who gave evidence to the Committee and Dawn Estefan, Psychotherapist who works with black women's groups. Janice Baker, shepherdess on a farm in the Durham Hills, was badly injured when she working having been trampled by one of her own sheep. Her son, the Countryfile and former One Show presenter Matt Baker dropped everything to help keep the farm going. They discuss what happens when the roles are reversed and a child has to help a parent. Women play a critical role in the cacao industry in West Africa but their voices are rarely heard. Dr Nyagoy Nyong'o’s, Fairtrade Global CEO talks about what life is like for women cocoa farmers. Hairdressers and beauty salons have been closed for a total of eight months since the start of the pandemic. Weddings were banned in the UK for more than three months last year. Our reporter Melanie Abbott spoke to hair and make-up artist Kirsty McCall. Writer and singer-songwriter Tracey Thorn talks about her new book, My Rock 'n' Roll Friend. The friend in question is Lindy Morrison who was drummer for an Australian band, The Go-Betweens. Tracey talks about friendship, being a female performer and why she chose to write about Lindy. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Body image. Caring for an abuser. Bafta lookahead. Mrs Sri Lanka Beauty pageant controversy Apr 09, 2021

A parliamentary report into body image has just been published. The Women's and Equalities Committee has been looking into why so many people feel dissatisfied about the way they look. They did a survey which said that 61% is adults and 66% of children feel bad about how they look most of the time. They wanted to find out whether certain groups are most at risk at poor body image and looked at the impact of social media, advertising, diet culture as well as racism and misogyny. We hear from Caroline Nokes MP chair of the committee. Tatyana Findlater who's 21 and has visible burn scars who gave evidence to the Committee and Dawn Estefan a psychotherapist who works with black women's groups to discuss various issues including body image. A fight broke out on the stage of the latest Mrs Sri Lanka Beauty pageant last weekend because the winner was accused of being a divorcee. The competition is open only to women who are married and NOT divorced. Why has this beauty pageant received so much media attention and scrutiny? Kanchana N Ruwanpura is Professor of Human Geography at the University of Gothenburg, in Sweden and a Fellow at the Centre for South Asian Studies at the University of Edinburgh. The 2011 Census found that 6.5 million people in the UK are carers and provide unpaid care by looking after an ill, older or disabled family member, friend or partner. It found that women are more likely to be carers than men, with 58% of carers being female and 42% male. But what if your relationship with the person you're caring for involves a history of abuse? And a look ahead to this year's BAFTA's with Edith Bowman. Presenter Anita Rani Producer Beverley Purcell

Tracey Thorn on her friend Lindy Morrison; Shadow Chancellor Anneliese Dodds; Women in the Wedding and Beauty Industry. Apr 08, 2021

Writer and singer-songwriter Tracey Thorn has a new book out, My Rock 'n' Roll Friend. The friend in question is Lindy Morrison. They first met backstage at the Lyceum in London in 1983 when Tracey was 20, insecure, shy, just starting out in the music business. Lindy, ten years older than Tracey, was drummer for an Australian band, The Go-Betweens. To Tracey she looked like "self belief in a minidress". Tracey joins Emma to talk about friendship, being a female performer and why she chose to write about Lindy. A year ago this week Anneliese Dodds was appointed Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer by the newly elected leader of the Labour Party Keir Starmer becoming the first ever woman to hold this position. The economic landscape has shifted dramatically over the last year with women often being worst hit by jobs losses and access to support. Anneliese reflects on the big issues of the last year and talks to Emma Barnett about Labour’s plans for a post covid recovery. Women say they are at the back of the queue when it comes to Covid handouts. We hear from the wedding and beauty sector. Melanie Abbott talks to Kirsty McCall, a wedding make up artist had a breakdown after spending all her savings after Covid almost wrecked her business. Emma discusses the issues with Jessie Westwood, who set up the campaign What About Weddings? last year, and Victoria Brownlie, from the National Hair and Beauty Federation. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley

Jessica Fellowes on the roaring twenties and comparisons with life today as come out of lockdown. Apr 07, 2021

As we begin to emerge from lockdown, what are the similarities with the ‘Roaring 20s’ 100 years ago when Britain, having survived the Spanish Flu and the Great War, became a hedonistic playground? Will this time create a need for crowds, parties, touch, and an urge to ‘get out and enjoy life’? Jessica Fellowes, author of Mitford Murders crime series and companion books to the television series Downton Abbey, describes the Bright Young Things who were the influencers of their day, ‘Bachelor Girls’ who no longer needed to be married to enjoy independence, and gives parallels with how technology transformed lifestyles – from the labour saving devices that freed women from endless housework, to the internet which enables women to work from home today. The public’s understanding of dementia is generally very poor and the message we receive about it are overwhelmingly negative. Could fiction be the answer to showing a more rounded and factual portrayal? Emma Barnett talks to Wendy Mitchell, Anna Wharton and Professor Jan Oyebode. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: Tanzy Leitner

Family farming with Janice and Matt Baker; New maternal mental health hubs; Author Susan Spindler; Statues of famous women Apr 06, 2021

What do you do, when your mother is in a spot of bother? You run to help…of course! That’s the situation the Countryfile and former One Show presenter Matt Baker found himself in last summer, when his mum Janice had a serious accident with some sheep, and was unable to continue with the day to day running of the family farm in the Durham Hills. Their story is documented in a four part series currently on More4 called Matt Baker: Our Farm in the Dales. Emma speaks to Janice and Matt. It's been announced that thousands of new, expectant or bereaved mothers will receive help and support for mental health problems through dozens of new dedicated hubs which are being set up across England. The hubs will bring together maternity services, reproductive health and psychological therapy under one roof as part of the NHS Long Term Plan. Around 6,000 women will receive care and treatment for a wide range of mental health issues from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after giving birth to others with a severe fear of childbirth. Emma gets reactions to the news from Sarah Hughes, Chief Executive of campaigning charity Centre for Mental Health and Dr Alain Gregoire, President of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance. Another statue of a strong woman has made the headlines. Last year it was Mary Wollstonecraft. Now it's Greta Thunberg. A statue of the 18 year old environmentalist was unveiled in Winchester last week but some think it's a waste of money. Emma is joined by Christine Charlesworth, the statue's creator, who's not only made Greta during lockdown but two other British feminist icons as well. Susan Spindler's first novel Surrogate tells the story of Ruth who, at the age of 54, volunteers to carry a baby for her daughter, who has just had her seventh miscarriage. But how selfless is Ruth's kind offer? She has done all of the research, taken the hormones, done the tests, thought of everything. What she doesn't know is how being her daughter's surrogate will make her feel and the upheaval it will cause in all of her relationships. Susan tells Emma how she researched the story.

The Feminisation of Chocolate Apr 05, 2021

Inspired by her childhood in York, Emma Robertson, Senior Lecturer in History at La Trobe University, Australia explores chocolate and the history of imperial exploitation, sexism and racism in her study ‘Chocolate, Women and Empire: a Social and Cultural History’. Emma talks about the ‘ordinary’ women positioned at the two key stages of production, the cocoa farms of Nigeria and the Rowntree factory in York. Women play a critical role in the cacao industry in West Africa but patriarchal attitudes often exclude them from decision making, land ownership, and selling the crop. Dr. Nyagoy Nyong’o, Fairtrade Global CEO discusses the life of women cocoa farmers and the Women’s School of Leadership which seeks to empower women and promote gender rights. What it is like to work in a chocolate factory? Sarah Hartley talks about her job as a quality controller on the factory floor at Whitakers. Chocolate advertising has long been linked with women and sex. Dr Cathrine Jansson-Boyd, a Reader in Consumer Psychology at Anglia Ruskin University and Sue Quinn, food writer and author of 'Cocoa: an Exploration of Chocolate' discuss how chocolate advertisements target women. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Paula McFarlane Interviewed Guest: Dr Emma Robertson Interviewed Guest: Dr. Nyagoy Nyong’o Interviewed Guest: Sarah Hartley Interviewed Guest: Dr Cathrine Jansson-Boyd Interviewed Guest: Sue Quinn

Sharon Stone. The impact of pornography on young people. Actor Vanessa Kirby Apr 03, 2021

It’s nearly 30 years since Sharon Stone starred in Basic Instinct, with the famous uncrossing-of-legs scene. In 2001, after adopting her first child, she suffered a stroke and almost died. In an exclusive interview with Emma Barnett she talks about her autobiography - The Beauty of Living Twice. This summer, students in England will receive A-level and GCSE results based on their teachers’ predictions, after official exams have been cancelled for the second year. Teachers will be required to compile evidence to substantiate their predicted grades. We hear from Emma Irving who works part time as a private tutor and Richard Sheriff, Executive headteacher of Harrogate grammar school and president of the Association of School and College Leaders. Jessica Moxham's eldest son, Ben, is disabled. At birth it was touch and go whether he would live and Jessica spent most of the first year of Ben's life keeping him alive, learning how to feed and soothe a baby who couldn't suck or eat. Jessica has written a memoir, The Cracks that Let the Light in: What I learned from my disabled son. Continuing our look at what’s being reported as “rape culture” in schools, we examine the impact of pornography on young people and its effect on relationships and sex. There are plenty of festivals planned in person once social distancing laws are – hopefully – lifted this summer. But why are they still featuring majority male artists, particularly those headlining. Plus Vanessa Kirby explores her role as Martha in the film ‘Pieces of A Woman’. A story of a couple on the verge of becoming parents, when their lives change dramatically when a homebirth ends in tragedy. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lorna Rose Treen Editor: Beverley Purcell

Summer music festivals line-ups - how many female artists are included? Apr 02, 2021

It’s exams season coming up. This summer, students will receive A-level and GCSE results based on their teachers’ predictions, after exams were cancelled for the second year in a row due to the pandemic. Teachers will be required to compile evidence to substantiate their predicted grades. Ministers have insisted that this year's grading system is the fairest plan, rather than using algorithms. However, there are concerns that ‘pointy elbow’ parents have been pressurising teachers to boost their children’s exam grades. To discuss the issues Anita talks to Emma Irving, who works part time as a private tutor, and Richard Sheriff, Executive headteacher of Harrogate grammar school and president of the Association of School and College Leaders. In Ripe Figs: Recipes and Stories from the Eastern Mediterranean, food writer, Yasmin Khan explores eastern Mediterranean’s border politics. She travels to the refugee camps of Lesvos, Istanbul and Nicosia, Cyprus. She talks about the women in Athens who have created a safe spaces for refugees and the women who use them. Yasmin also talks about the women who have set up a restaurant in Lesvos to integrate refugees into daily life on the island. This week the organisers of the Glastonbury Festival announced a one-off live streamed event in May, the bands will be performing at Worthy Farm but the audience will be at home around the world. However there are plenty of festivals planned in person once social distancing laws are – hopefully – lifted this summer. Many of them have now revealed their line-ups, and overall they are still featuring majority male artists, particularly among the headlining acts. Joining Anita are two women who want to change that - founder of the F-List Vick Bain and Maxie Gedge, UK project manager of Keychange, an initiative set up by the PRS Foundation to encourage better gender representation in music. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Richard Sheriff Interviewed Guest: Emma Irving Interviewed Guest: Yasmin Khan Interviewed Guest: Vick Bain Interviewed Guest: Maxie Gedge

Sharon Stone, Gillian Keegan MP, Fertility & Race Apr 01, 2021

It’s nearly thirty years since Sharon Stone was in the film Basic Instinct, with the famous uncrossing-of-legs scene. She really wanted the role but only got it after twelve other actresses turned it down. After Basic Instinct more films followed including Casino alongside Robert De Niro. In 2001, after adopting her first child, she suffered a stroke and almost died. She’s now written her autobiography called The Beauty of Living Twice. She gave Woman's Hour her only UK broadcast interview. On the morning that a new helpline has been launched for potential victims of school sexual abuse we speak to Gillian Keegan MP who's from the Department for Education. We're talking about shop changing rooms with retail expert Catherine Shuttleworth. When lock-down lifts will you be using them, or sticking with ordering online and trying things on at home? People from ethnic minorities who have fertility treatment are less likely to be successful. That's according to the Human Fertility and Embryology Authority. Their data says Black patients having the lowest chances of successful treatment whilst only 4% of egg donors were Asian. We find out more with Sally Cheshire, outgoing Chair of the HFEA and Dr Karen Joash, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Imperial College Healthcare Trust and spokesperson for Race Equality at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.

Cindy Gallop & Dr Fiona Vera-Gray on the impact of porn on teenagers, writer Erin Kelly, Dr Jenny Mathers & Dr Peter English. Mar 31, 2021

Continuing our look at what’s being reported as “rape culture” in schools, we talk about the impact of pornography on young people and its effect on relationships and sex. Emma Barnett talks to Dr Fiona Vera-Gray from Durham University and Cindy Gallop founder of MakeLoveNotPorn. We hear from the thriller writer Erin Kelly who talks about her latest novel – “Watch Her Fall” – set in the world of elite ballet. After Germany's announcement that it's restricting the use of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 60 we hear from Dr Peter English a Retired Consultant in Communicable Disease Control, and former Chair of the BMA Public Health Medicine Committee, who says the jab is safe to take. And we discuss the Swiss Army's plans to attract more female recruits by allowing them to wear women's underwear for the first time. Until now female soldiers have been issued with the same underwear as men. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Donald MacDonald

Jessica Moxham on life with a child with disabilities, Lord Macdonald and Harriet Wistritch, Noof Al Maadeed and Rothna Begum Mar 30, 2021

Emma Barnett talks to Jessica Moxham about her memoir "The Cracks that Let the Light in: What I learned from my disabled son." Also to Noof Al Maadeed and Rothna Begum about life for women in Qatar and the issue of male guardianship and the former Director of Public Prosecutions Lord Macdonald and Harriet Wistritch from the Centre for Womens Justice talk about the issue of "rape culture" in schools. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Tanzy Leitner

Award-winning actor Vanessa Kirby; Sexual harassment, assault & abuse in schools Mar 29, 2021

There are widespread allegations of peer to peer misogyny, harassment, abuse and assault of girls in schools. This eruption - which has been bubbling since last week - has been described as the potential me too moment for schools - as pupils flock to a website called Everyone's Invited which was set up last year as a place where victims can post anonymous accounts of abuse they had suffered. It has now received more than 7,000 testimonies - including accounts from children as young as nine. Many of the accounts are about sexual harassment, abuse or even rape in schools or involving other school pupils. There is some discomfort about what some children being invited to shame each other and the idea of allegations of rape culture flying about - tarnishing lots of innocent boys with the same brush. But at the same time - schools have been accused of covering up sexual offences to protect their reputations and girls have said their reports have been ignored. A police helpline is now being set up to report incidents, after thousands of allegations were posted, most of them about the behaviour of other pupils. What should schools, the police and parents do next? Vanessa Kirby is perhaps best known for her award- winning portrayal of Princess Margaret in in the first two series of 'The Crown'. She's now receiving rave reviews for her performance in the film ‘Pieces of A Woman’; which you can watch now on Netflix. She has just been nominated for the best actress award at the OSCARS and at the BAFTAs. An important but devastating story - not often told on screen but one that unfortunately a number of women can relate to. Vanessa joins Emma to discuss the film. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Ava Vakil Interviewed Guest: Rachel Fitzsimmons Interviewed Guest: Anne Longfield Interviewed Guest: Lorraine Candy Interviewed Guest: Vanessa Kirby Photographer: Matt Holyoak

Weekend Woman's Hour - Lockdown anniversary, Cryptocurrencies & Portraits of women Mar 27, 2021

Last week marked the first anniversary of lockdown. We hear from three women of different ages, backgrounds and circumstances to discuss their experiences of having to stay at home. Actor and author Sheila Hancock and writers Kerry Hudson and Yasmin Rahman tell us about their highs and lows. Friday marks 50 years of Bangladesh Independence. The BBC Asian Network presenter Nadia Ali and Shaz Aberdean, a community worker in Swansea tell us about the celebrations. We discuss the ins and outs of cryptocurrencies and why young women are choosing to invest in these more than ever before with money expert Jasmine Birtles and Susannah Streeter a senior investment analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown. Last year the National Crime Agency assessed there were at least 300,000 individuals posing a sexual threat to children in the UK and warned of a spike in online child sexual abuse offending during the pandemic. Donald Findlater is from the charity The Stop it Now helpline, he tells us about the growing problem. We also hear from Chris who was arrested for possession of illegal sexual images and from Sarah about her husband’s arrest. Zing Tsjeung, executive editor of Vice UK and Mai-Anh Peterson, co-founder of BESEAN the British East and Southeast Asian Network tell us about the increase in racially motivated attacks against women of Asian descent throughout the pandemic. And the very last commission before the National Portrait Gallery in London closed for renovation involved two women - a portrait of the author Zadie Smith by the artist Toyin Ojih Odutola. But such a work is in stark contrast to much of the rest of the permanent collection, with 88% of the artists and 75% of the sitters being male. We hear from Curator and art historian Dr Flavia Frigeri, and from the artists Roxana Halls and Toyin Ojih Odutola about the women they paint and want to see in the gallery. Presenter: Krupa Padhy Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Equal pay judgement. Birth partners attending scans. Bangladesh at 50. Mar 26, 2021

Today the Supreme Court will give its judgement on one of the largest ever equal pay claims . It could have implications for women working in retail all over the UK. It involves those working in the supermarket Asda stores, who are mainly women, who are being paid less than those working in the distribution depot, who are mainly men. The case has been going on for over 5 years. Reporter Melanie Abbott will tell us about its implications for workers across the sector and we hear reaction from Wendy Arundale, who worked at Asda in Middlesbrough for 32 years. Since the start of lockdown many pregnant women have been campaigning to have their birth partners with them when they go for scans. At the end of last year NHS Trusts in England changed their advice and said ,dependent on a risk assessment, they should do all they can to ensure pregnant women are accompanied. But those doing the scans, the sonographers, feel their rights have been overlooked. One wrote a heartfelt letter about this to the professional trade magazine, headlined "We cannot allow professional ultrasound to become entertainment." Her hospital trust won't allow her to come on the programme. But her views are echoed by Gill Harrison who is the professional voice for Ultrasound at the Society of Radiographer. Radio One’s Vick Hope presents a new BBC Sounds podcast called Songs To Live By, celebrating Black voices and experiences through the songs that shaped them. In each episode Vick talks to two guests of different generations about the music that has defined them - personally, politically, musically. She tells Krupa about some of the women involved and the music she enjoyed with her mum. And to mark Bangladesh's 50th year of independence we talk to BBC Asian Network presenter Nadia Ali and Shaz Aberdean, a community worker in Swansea. Presenter Krupa Padhy Producer Beverley Purcell

Covid 19 vaccines and children, East Asian Racism, Periods in lockdown, Young women and cryptocurrency Mar 25, 2021

A newspaper article reported on discussions around children in the UK being offered COVID-19 vaccines as early as August, although a spokesperson from DHSC has said: "no decisions have been made on whether children should be offered vaccinations". In February the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine began testing on children. There are 300 volunteers aged between six and 17 taking part in the trial. So, what is the likelihood of all children being included in future vaccination programmes. Krupa Padhy discusses the issues with Saul Faust, Professor of Paediatric Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the University of Southampton. Last Tuesday, eight people at three different spas and massage parlours in and around the US city of Atlanta were killed. Six of the eight victims were women of Asian descent. Activists and advocates have pointed to an increase in racially-motivated attacks against Asian Americans throughout the pandemic. But that same rise in hate crime focussed at Eastern and South Eastern Asian communities has increased here in the UK too. Krupa talks to Zing Tsjeung, executive editor of Vice UK and Mai-Anh Peterson, co-founder of BESEA.n, British East and Southeast Asian Network. There have been lots of discussions on the effect of the pandemic on our mental, physical and emotional well-being - but what about the impact on women's menstrual cycles? Anecdotally many women have said they have experienced changes in their cycle, more intense symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or PMS. Last year Dr Anita Mitra, NHS gynaecologist, also known as the Gynae Geek, asked 'Have you noticed a change in your menstrual cycle or hormonal symptoms during lockdown?' More than 5,500 women responded. Two thirds of whom said yes. She now has an in-depth study of 15,500 women who've responded. Why are young women investing in cryptocurrencies? New research released by the Financial Conduct Authority shows new investors are more likely to be female, younger and from BAME backgrounds. They're more reliant on social media for tips and to be using investment apps. There's also a concern that they are taking bigger risks using 'gut instinct'. Krupa talks to money expert Jasmine Birtles and Susannah Streeter, senior investment analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, about why volatile products like cryptocurrency and foreign exchange are attracting women and how they can protect their investments. Presented by Krupa Padhy Produced by Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Endometriosis, NI Abortion, Portraits Mar 24, 2021

Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb are found elsewhere in the body, often around reproductive organs, bowel and bladder. This can cause inflammation, pain and scar tissue. We hear about a new study which uses Dichloroacetate as a treatment. Jessica Rafferty talks to use about her experience which includes more than 200 visits to the hospital. And we also hear from Andrew Horne, Professor of Gynaecology and Reproductive Sciences at the University of Edinburgh. Litter! Get annoyed when it’s all over the place? Find yourself picking up other people's rubbish? What about all those covid masks? Is it mostly women leading the charge on litter? We hear from you. Theoretically women can now get an abortion in Northern Ireland. The new law came into force last year but in reality it's a very different story. It's hard to access services and some women are still travelling to England and Ireland. The Northern Ireland Secretary, Brandon Lewis, has stepped in and said the Northern Ireland Executive must do something about it. We get the latest from Jayne McCormack, political reporter at BBC Northern Ireland, and Les Allamby, Chief Commissioner from the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. And we talk about the portraits on display at the National Portrait Gallery. Why are most of them of men, and why are they created by mostly male painters? How do experts plan to change things?

Lockdown anniversary, Nicola Sturgeon, Misogyny as a hate crime Mar 23, 2021

It's exactly a year since Boris Johnson delivered the instruction to stay at home. To mark the occasion, we've assembled three women of different ages, backgrounds and circumstances to discuss their experiences of being confined for the most part in the home. Actor and author Sheila Hancock and writers Kerry Hudson and Yasmin Rahman join Emma. The future of Nicola Sturgeon has been in the balance in recent weeks as she's faced not one but two major inquiries. Yesterday afternoon an independent inquiry by James Hamilton QC cleared the First Minister of breaching the ministerial code. But this morning a separate cross-party committee of inquiry said the Scottish government's handling of harassment complaints against Alex Salmond was "seriously flawed", that Nicola Sturgeon had misled their inquiry in her evidence and that women had been badly let down by the government. Political correspondent Alex Massie, crime writer Val McDermid and Alex Massie from the Spectator join Emma. Last week’s announcement that the police in England and wales are going to start recording misogyny as a hate crime in the wake of the killing of Sarah Everard was heralded as a victory by many women’s rights campaigners but that reaction has been far from uniform. Many groups working in the arena of domestic abuse and violence against women actually think it could be counter productive and even make the situation worse. We talk to Dr Fiona Vera-Gray from the University of Durham who has written The Right Amount of Panic who thinks the move to change the law is a knee jerk reaction and also to Professor Louise Mallany who has worked with Nottinghamshire Police which has recorded misogyny as a hate crime since 2016 Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Navigating the perimenopause; Increase in online accessing of child sexual images; Nawal El Saadawi's death at 89 Mar 22, 2021

The average age of menopause is 51, and menopause itself only lasts for one day, because it simply marks the one-year anniversary of your last period. Perimenopause, on the other hand, refers to the period of time in which you’ll have cycles, but start to experience ‘menopausal’ symptoms. Three quarters of women experience significant symptoms during the perimenopause, yet there is little in the way of evidence based information available. Comical descriptions of symptoms including hot flushes and mood swings are widespread and prevent essential details on the myriad of other symptoms and signs a woman is perimenopausal. Maisie Hill is a women's health advocate and author of Perimenopause Power. She joins Emma to discuss the symptoms and her toolkit of tips and techniques women can use to help themselves. Last year the National Crime Agency assessed there were at least 300,000 individuals posing a sexual threat to children in the UK, and warned of a spike in online child sexual abuse offending during the pandemic. The Stop It Now helpline, a part of child protection charity the Lucy Faithfull Foundation, is a nationwide service which offers advice and support for men viewing illegal sexual images of under 18s or feeling they are on the verge of doing so. They have reported an increase in people seeking help for their illegal online behaviour since the beginning of the 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns. Emma speaks to Donald Findlater, Director of the helpline since it started in 2002. The pioneering Egyptian feminist Nawal El Saadawi has died at the age of 89. She was a doctor, feminist and writer who was described as "the Simone de Beauvoir of the Arab World" and as "Egypt's most radical woman'. BBC Cairo correspondent Sally Nabil joins Emma to talk about her life and work.

Weekend Woman's Hour: Women and confidence in the police; Syria; the future of the handbag Mar 20, 2021

Susannah Fish, former Chief Constable of Nottinghamshire Police and Olivia Pinkney Chief Constable for Hampshire talk about how confident women can be in reporting crime to the police. We hear from Conroy Harris, CEO of A Band of Brothers, David Challen, domestic violence campaigner and Mike Berry, Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist on why men attack women and what can be done to stop it. Why is inclusion in beauty important? Make-up artist and model Sasha Pallari and founder of MDMflow, Florence Adepoju tell us how beauty brands can be more diverse and the damage face-filters can have on mental health. This month marks the 10th anniversary of conflict in Syria. Dr. Rola Hallam, CEO and Founder of CanDo explains why women and children have been disproportionately affected. How has lockdown changed what we want from our handbags? Lucia Savi curator of the V&A's Bags: Inside Out exhibition tells us about the history of handbags and how they will be used after lockdown. Singer-songwriter and cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson tells us about her career and sound which she describes as an eclectic, soulful sound with roots in soul, classical, with reggae and jazz influences. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Louise Corley

Singer-songwriter and cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson Mar 19, 2021

The Supreme Court are today announcing their judgement on the so-called "pizza test". That is whether a residential or home carer who "sleeps in" is entitled to the minimum wage. The reason it is named the "pizza test" is that they are required to be on site, and cannot leave to go and buy a pizza, even if they're not actually performing some specific caring activity. The case was brought by a highly-qualified care support worker called Clare Tomlinson-Blake. If the Supreme Court find in her favour it will have huge implications as it could cost the sector over £400 million in back pay. Anita Rani is joined by our reporter, Melanie Abbott, who has been speaking to Claire, and Christina McAnea, the general secretary of UNISON. The British multi-national consumer goods company, Unilever announced last week that it will remove the word ‘normal’ from 200 of its beauty products, in an attempt to create a ‘more inclusive definition of beauty’. They will also ban excessive editing of photos in relation to ‘body shape, size proportion and skin colour’. This includes models, as well as social media influencers who have been paid to promote its products. Florence Adepoju, founder of MDMflow and Sasha Pallari, the make-up artist who campaigned for better regulations on social media beauty advertisements, discuss why diversity in the beauty industry is important and what brands can do to work towards inclusivity. All week on Woman's Hour we have been thinking about and discussing the murder of Sarah Everard. Today Jacqueline Rose is one of the world's leading feminist literary and cultural critics discusses her new book, 'On Violence and On Violence Against Women'. The singer-songwriter and cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson has a rare sound that combines classical music and eclectic soul. She was nominated for her first MOBO Award in 2012. Her recent release 'Rise Up', featuring Akala, has become a revolutionary anthem for young Black people. Part of the WOW UK Festival, which is online now and will be running until Sunday 21st March, she joins Anita in the studio. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Claire Tomlinson-Blake Interviewed Guest: Christina McAnea Interviewed Guest: Florence Adepoju Interviewed Guest: Sasha Pallari Interviewed Guest: Jacqueline Rose Interviewed Guest: Ayanna Witter-Johnson

Men and Violence Mar 18, 2021

Today we have three men on Woman's Hour talking about male violence. They're discussing why some men attack women and what can be done to stop it. We know that statistically more men than women are likely to be victims of male violence, but we also know that most women have felt frightened when walking alone on the streets, and most change what they do to keep safe. Sarah Everard's death has provoked a national conversation about women's safety, so today we're getting a male point of view. We have Conroy Harris from A Band of Brothers, an organisation which works with young men who have been violent in the past; David Challen who's a domestic violence campaigner and whose mother Sally went to prison for the murder of his father Richard, and Mike Berry who's a Consultant Clinical Forensic Psychologist. Gloria Hunniford joins us too. She's telling us about why she's doing something she never thought she would, and even dissuaded her children from doing when they were young: that's getting a tattoo.

Women and confidence in the police, Maria Ressa, and the future of the handbag post pandemic Mar 17, 2021

The death of Sarah Everard has led to concerns for women's safety in public. Women have been encouraged to put their trust in the police if facing harassment or any kind of jeopardy. But following last Saturday's vigil on Clapham Common, where the Met police were criticised for their response, just how confident can women be in the police? Did their behaviour at that event reveal an institutional misogyny? Emma talks to Susannah Fish, former Chief Constable of Nottinghamshire Police force and Olivia Pinkney, Chief Constable for Hampshire, representing the National Police Chief’s Council. We talk to Maria Ressa who is one of the Philippines most outspoken journalists who was named a Time magazine Person of the year in 2018. She’s a vocal critic of President Rodrigo Duterte’s regime and his deadly war on drugs, his attempts to silence the press and the rise of disinformation and fake news on social media. And we hear from Lucia Savi, the curator of a new handbags exhibition at the V&A museum in London about learn how this fashion accessory - like much else in life - has been impacted by the pandemic and lockdown. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: Duncan Hannant

Safe city design, Victoria Atkins, Do men and women garden differently? Mar 16, 2021

After Sarah Everard’s murder, there are calls to make the streets safer for women. So, how can that be done? And how can town planning reduce the risk for women when they’re walking alone? Dr Ellie Cosgrave, a lecturer in Urban Innovation and Policy at UCL, describes her vision of safe cities designed with women in mind. Yesterday Boris Johnson's Criminal Justice Taskforce came up with a series of new measures to help protect women and girls, including better street lighting, CCTV and a new idea of sending undercover police officers into pubs and clubs. These are welcome measures to some, but for others this package misses the mark. There are also plans for a register to monitor serial domestic abuse and stalking perpetrators, and a push to make misogyny a hate crime. Does this add up to real change ? Emma speaks to Home Office Minister Victoria Atkins, whose brief covers domestic abuse, violence against women and sexual violence. As the weather warms and if you’re lucky enough to have a garden, it’s time to start thinking about the first mow of the season. A perfectly manicured lawn can be something of a status symbol and - as Monty Don recently put it in a recent Radio Times interview - a peculiarly male obsession rooted in a desire to control the environment. Pippa Greenwood from Radio 4’s Gardener’s Question Time and the lawn consultant David Hedges-Gower discuss lawns and whether or not men and women have a different approach to gardening.

Emma Barnett covers the reaction to Sarah Everard’s vigil and the actions of the Metropolitan Police Mar 15, 2021

Reaction to Sarah Everard’s vigil and the actions of the Metropolitan Police . Among the thousands who came to Clapham Common in South London on Saturday night to pay their respects to her were feminist writer and member of Southall Black Sister, Rahila Gupta and campaigner and columnist at the i, Kate Maltby. Emma speaks to them both, and to Sir Peter Fahy, retired former Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police about the policing of the event. Plus we hear from Jan Royall, Baroness Royall about the idea of putting together a data base of offenders convicted of harassment, coercive control and stalking similar to the sex offenders register. This month marks the 10th anniversary of a conflict in Syria that has devastated the country and the Syrian people. In a country whose population in 2011 was estimated at about 21 million - more than half the population has been displaced: 6.6 million Syrian have been forced to flee their country since 2011. Another 6 million have been uprooted from their homes but remain displaced inside the country. It's impossible to estimate the number of people who have been killed. In 2014 the UN stopped counting, saying it was too difficult to verify the number of people killed. Their last estimate in 2016 was 400,000. It is by any standards a humanitarian crisis of unspeakable proportions. Dr. Rola Hallam, CEO and Founder of CanDo, a charity set up to deliver health humanitarian aid in warzones joins Emma Barnett. Jacqueline Springer who's a music journalist and broadcaster gives up a round up of last night's Grammy's . Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour - The Art of Repair, Nurses' Pay & the Power of Oprah Winfrey Mar 13, 2021

The art of the repair, Molly Martin an illustrator and textile repairer, tells us why repairing clothes, furniture and appliances can be beneficial to not only your pocket but to your mind. The government's proposed one per cent pay rise for NHS staff is discussed with the Health Minister Nadine Dorries and Dame Donna Kinnair, nurse and chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing. We look at how more than 70 women in a small English town have had their private, often naked images stolen and shared online by people living in their community with one of the victims Ruby and the MP Maria Miller who has been campaigning for better legal protection against image based sexual abuse for years. It took a year for Maria Beatrice Giovanardi to convince the Oxford Dictionary of English to not only change their definition of ‘woman’ but to re-examine the synonyms for ‘woman’ in their thesaurus, and amend the contents. She tells us why she turned her attentions to Treccani, a leading online Italian dictionary, in a bid to get them to do the same thing. And after her interview with Harry and Meghan the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, we discuss the key to Oprah Winfrey’s success with the British Presenter Trisha Goddard. The forensic psychologist Dr Jessica Taylor tells us why she has set up a new charity to provide support and advice to women and girls who become pregnant from rape, sexual abuse, exploitation, trafficking and incest. A new report from the Institute of Fiscal Studies suggests that women in heterosexual couples are much more likely than men to give up their jobs, or cut their hours, after becoming parents. And it shows that this happens even if the woman earns more than her male partner. Alison Andrew, Senior Research Economist at the IFS explains why. Presenter: Jessica Creighton Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Lisa Jenkinson

Review into alleged abuse in British Gymnastics Mar 12, 2021

An interim report into British Gymnastics, published this week, revealed 1,500 complaints between 2015 and 2020, including 39 claims passed to police. Jessica Creighton is joined by former gymnast, Claire Heafford and Sarah Moore, one of the lawyers working on the case. It took a year for Maria Beatrice Giovanardi to convince the Oxford Dictionary of English to not only change their definition of 'woman' but to re-examine the synonyms for 'woman' in their thesaurus, and amend the contents. Maria has now turned her attentions to Treccani, a leading online Italian dictionary, in a bid to get them to do the same thing. She tells us how this part of her campaign is progressing and why language matters. A new report out today from the Institute of Fiscal Studies suggests that women in heterosexual couples are much more likely than men to give up their jobs, or cut their hours, after becoming parents. And it shows that this happens even if the woman earns more than her male partner. Alison Andrew, Senior Research Economist at the IFS joins me now to discuss. The first UK Clinical Guideline for the use of vaginal pessaries in pelvic organ prolapse was launched last week. The multidisciplinary Guideline Group included 3 pessary users who co-developed the resource. Being written against the background of the Baroness Cumberlege report ‘First Do No Harm’ from July 2020, it aims to help women learn, understand and be empowered to ask about whether a pessary is the right option for them. Presenter: Jessica Creighton Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Claire Heafford Interviewed Guest: Sarah Moore Interviewed Guest: Maria Beatrice Giovanardi Interviewed Guest: Alison Andrew Interviewed Guest: Kate Lough Interviewed Guest: Kath Sansom

Nadine Dorries, Dame Donna Kinnair, Women and safety, Organised crime, mafia and gender. Mar 11, 2021

The Health Minister Nadine Dorries joins Emma to talk about her plans to cut deaths caused by Strep B infection in newborn babies, as well as nurses' pay and the government’s new consultation on a women’s health strategy. The row over the government's proposed one per cent pay rise for NHS staff shows no sign of quietening down - with the attention having moved towards nurses' wages in particular. Strike action has been threatened by nurses' unions over the proposals and the Prime Minister came under fire yesterday about nurses - especially considering the role they have played on the front line fighting the pandemic. 90 per cent of nurses are women. Emma discusses the issue with Dame Donna Kinnear, nurse and chief executive and general secretary of the Royal College of Nursing. Today we are thinking of Sarah Everard - the 33 year old woman who went missing walking home to Brixton from a friend's house in Clapham, south London, on March 3. Reclaim The Night are organising a vigil following the disappearance of Sarah Everard. But how have things changed since the original Reclaim the Night march which took place on 12th November 1977? Emma speaks to Al Garthwaite, now a Leeds Councillor for Headingley and Hyde Park, she was one of the original organisers, and to the writer and journalist Joan Smith, whose latest book is called Home Grown: How Domestic Violence Turns Men Into Terrorists. She has also written a book called Misogynies, and she is on the London Mayor's board about tackling violence against women and girls. From the Godfather to Goodfellas and The Sopranos, we are fascinated by movies and series about the mafia. But women are often portrayed as symbolic or the ‘sexy wife’. How much power and agency do they actually have? Felia Allum is a Senior Lecturer in Politics and Italian at the University of Bath. Her research' Women, crime and culture: transnational organised crime as an equal opportunity industry' is funded by the Leverhulme Trust. She joins Emma to tell the stories of women she’s spoken to from the Neapolitan mafia. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley

Stammering, Sharing intimate images without consent and The art of repairs Mar 10, 2021

During lockdown, when we haven't quite had access to the shops we might need, many have turned to 'fixing up' items around the house, and mending our own clothes. With the popularity of shows like The Repair Shop and Salvage Hunters, what stories do our possessions carry, and how can restoration keep them alive? Emma meets Molly Martin, an illustrator, textile repairer, and author of 'The Art of Repair' who runs workshops on how to mend mindfully. More than 70 women in a small English town have had their private, often naked, images stolen and shared online by people living in their community. The indecent images, including some of underage girls, are thought to be taken via hacking or provided by former boyfriends and uploaded anonymously on a website which features 73,000 images of women from across the world. Members of this online forum specifically request and target girls in the places they live in. The victims have reported the abuse to the police who, so far, say they are unable to help due to the current laws. As the town has a tight community, most of the victims know each other and have alerted those they recognise when the images appear. About a dozen of the victims have banded together and setup a group to try and get justice. Emma speaks to one of the women, Ruby, and to Maria Miller MP, who has been campaigning for the better protection against image based sexual abuse. Stammering, also known as stuttering, is a relatively common speech problem in childhood, which can persist into adulthood. Around 1 in 12 young children go through a phase of stammering, and around 2 in 3 will grow out of it. It's estimated that stammering affects around 1 in 100 adults, with women being around 3 to 4 times more less likely to stammer than men. Emma is joined by Felicity Baker, a producer with BBC News, who has been making the documentary I Can’t Say My Name: Stammering in the Spotlight and Mandy Taylor, a former trustee of STAMMA and now a member and volunteer who works to support families affected by stammering.

Electing to home school. Trisha Goddard on the power of Oprah. Mar 09, 2021

As Children return to school across the UK an increasing number of parents are choosing to educate their children at home on a permanent basis. Many have enjoyed home schooling their kids during Covid and see it as an opportunity to explore a new way of learning. Critics however are concerned that it’s unregulated. We hear from Gail Tolley from the Association of Directors of Children's Services and to Hannah Titley from the Home Schooling Association. Trisha Goddard who had her own UK day time talk show for over a decade on why Oprah is the Queen of confessional TV interviews. Plus Stephanie Guerilus, senior editor and staff writer at the Grio, an American website with news and video content geared toward African Americans, tells us how the interview gone down with the American audience For over 20 years, Maria Cahill has stood by her claims that she was raped by a member of the IRA when she was 16, and was retraumatised when the issue was handled by a IRA kangaroo court. But a few days ago The Guardian newspaper issued an apology to her regarding a controversial article published in 2014. The journalist? Roy Greenslade, who used to write for The Guardian and later became a lecturer in journalism and ethics. Two weeks ago he disclosed that he was a supporter of the IRA and a member of Sinn Fein - a revelation that has caused major ripples, even prompting comment from the Prime Minister In that article from 2014, he criticised the BBC documentary which revealed Mairia's story for failing to include the fact that she belonged to an anti-Sinn Fein political party at one time. She tells Emma why she thinks the article and his recent disclosure of his political affiliations which were hidden at the time - undermine what she'd been through as a survivor of a rape, continuing to add insult to injury. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell

When Meghan and Harry met Oprah; Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe’s release; Clemency Burton Hill’s return to the airwaves. Mar 08, 2021

Oprah Winfrey’s interview with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex was broadcast last night on CBS in the US. It is due to air here in the UK tonight on ITV at 9pm. What might be the repercussions of the interview with the two former working Royals? Emma talks to Jennie Bond who was the BBC’s royal correspondent for 14 years and Dr Shola Mos-Shogbamimu, activist, lawyer and author of This is Why I Resist. The broadcaster Clemency Burton Hill tells us about a special one off episode of the Classical Fix podcast celebrating women composers that she recorded with Emma Barnett as part of International Women's Day. British-Iranian charity worker Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe has been released from house arrest, but faces fresh charges next weekend. Nazanin was detained in Tehran in 2016, and sentenced to five years in prison for plotting to overthrow the Iranian government, which she has always denied. We hear the latest on her situation, from Richard Ratcliffe and Faranak Amidi, BBC World Service's Women's Affairs journalist. A new charity is being launched called MOCRA or ‘Mothers of Children Conceived in Rape and Abuse' which aims to provide support and advice to women and girls who become pregnant from rape, sexual abuse, exploitation, trafficking and incest. They also want to provide services for children who find that they were conceived in acts of rape and sexual violence against their mothers. Founded by Dr Jessica Taylor, she joins Emma to discuss why her charity will fill a gap in services.

Weekend Woman's Hour: Pensions scandal, Isabel Allende, Anti-Obesity Drugs Mar 06, 2021

Pensions expert, Baroness Ros Altman talks about the state pension scandal which only affects women. Around 200,000 of them could be due pay-outs averaging £13,500 to top-up the underpayment of their state pension. We hear from the critically acclaimed and award-winning author, Isabel Allende. She tells us about her latest book 'The ‘Soul of a Woman’ - her memoir on feminism and what it means to be a woman. What can Greek goddesses teach us about ourselves today? Classicist, Natalie Haynes and Historian, Bettany Hughes discuss goddesses and what we can learn from them. 35 million adults and a third of eleven year olds are overweight or obese in this country. Rachel Batterham is Professor of Obesity, Diabetes and Endocrinology at UCL and one of the authors of a recent study into a drug, semaglutide, that can help some people lose 20% of their body weight. Jan, who took part in Rachel's trial and has struggled with weight since she was a child, talks about how taking part changed her life. When is maximialism too much? Interior designer, Abigail Ahern and head judge on BBC2’s Interior Design Masters, Michelle Ogundehin explain the the trend for patterns and bold, clashing colours. Classical violinist, Madeleine Mitchell talks about the concert at St John’s Smith Square celebrating A Century of Music by British Women (1921-2021) with her London Chamber Ensemble. Errollyn Wallen CBE joins Madeleine and explains what it feels like to be included in the celebration of the finest British female composers. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Kirsty Starkey

Isabel Allende, Erna Solberg, music with Madeleine Mitchell & Errollyn Wallen & post lockdown workwear with Emma Jacobs. Mar 05, 2021

Anita Rani talks to the Chilean author Isabel Allende, also to the Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg. To mark International Women's Day we have music with Madeleine Mitchell & Errollyn Wallen and we look at the future of workwear post lockdown. Will power suits and formal wear be a thing of the past after a year of lounging in comfies? Emma Jacobs from the Financial Times considers our appetite for zoom casual clothing and what we can expect when we all return to the office in the coming months. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineer: John Boland

Layla AlAmmar, Anti-Obesity Drugs, Maximalism Mar 04, 2021

Silence Is a Sense is a new novel by Layla AlAmmar: a Kuwaiti now based in Lancashire. Her novel is about a young woman from Syria who's living in a block of flats in a small English city. It's about the people she watches from her window, and how she's settling in after leaving a war zone. Two out of every three adults in the UK are either overweight or obese. Usually the message is eat less and move more, but is there something else going on? Rachel Batterham, Professor of Obesity, Diabetes and Endocrinology at UCL discusses the critical role of gut hormones in controlling appetite and the drugs that can help keep them in balance. And Jan from Kent talks about what she's learned about the causes of her own problems with weight and why she thinks anti-obesity drugs could change the lives of millions. We look at the growing trend for ‘more is more’ in home decorating. Maximalism can mean having a riot of different patterns and colours and textures, and also making more space for your treasured objects to go on display. Emma talks to Abigail Ahern, interior designer and author of Everything – A Maximalist Style Guide and Michelle Ogundehin, head judge on BBC2’s Interior Design Masters and author of Happy Inside: How to Harness the Power of Home for Health and Happiness.

Mothers' names on marriage certificates. The Budget. Captain Sir Tom's daughter Lucy Teixeira Mar 03, 2021

From May mothers' names will finally be featured alongside fathers' details on marriage certificates, in England and Wales thanks to years of campaigning both inside and outside of parliament. We hear from Ailsa Burkimsher Sadler who started the campaign for change back in 2013 and Revd Canon Dr Sandra Millar who is the Church of England’s Head of Life Events. Today one of the most powoerful women in UK politics, Nicola Sturgeon has been giving evidence to a special committee set up by the Scottish Parliament to investigate the handling of sexual harassment complaints against Alex Salmond. We look at the implications for her, her Party and for the Scottish Government. If you still crave a career in music what are some strategies for survival? Sound Advice is a new handbook for aspiring musicians written by journalist Rhian Jones and PhD researcher Lucy Heyman. Plus a lookahead to the Chancellor's speech with Mary-Ann Stephenson from the Women's Budget Group. And Captain Sir Tom's daughter Lucy Teixeira on why her family are inviting people to come together to plant trees and grow a living legacy forest in his name. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell

Afghan women and the current peace talks Mar 02, 2021

As International Women’s Day approaches and peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban continue, what are the most pressing issues facing women in Afghanistan? We hear from BBC Afghan reporter Mahjooba Nowrouzi and scholar and women’s rights advocate Dr Orzala Ashraf Nemat. We're missing hugs, but maybe we'll get them back soon. A retired nurse in Scotland has been able to give her elderly mother a big hug for the first time in five months. Fiona Scott went to see her mum, Mary Cook, who's 90 and in a care home in Scotland yesterday. It's because restrictions have been eased a bit in Scotland - now people can go and see the one they love, INSIDE a care home, and touch them. Fiona and sex and relationships columnist for the Times, Suzi Godson, join Emma. Actor Sue Johnston has spoken about the sexism older women face in theatre and screen. Johnston 77, has been cast as 61-year-old Sean Bean’s mother in Jimmy McGovern’s new BBC prison drama. Thirty years ago she played Sean Bean’s wife in a 1992 episode of Inspector Morse. Actor Dame Harriet Walter and film journalist and broadcaster Karen Krizanovich discuss why female actors age into older roles, while male actors remain in similar parts throughout their careers. Pregnant women who lose their babies should be given two weeks' paid bereavement leave, according to campaigners. At the moment, only women who lose their baby after 24 weeks are entitled to statutory leave. Taylor Moss, who had a stillbirth at 23 weeks, has started a petition to change the law after she was not entitled to any time off. Her campaign is being backed by Cherilyn Mackrory, the Conservative MP who co-chairs the baby loss All Party Parliamentary Group. Taylor discusses her experience of loss, her impetus for starting the petition and what she hopes to achieve. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Mahjooba Nowrouzi Interviewed Guest: Dr Orzaa Ashraf Nemat Interviewed Guest: Fiona Scott Interviewed Guest: Suzi Godson Interviewed Guest: Dame Harriet Walter Interviewed Guest: Karen Krizanovich Interviewed Guest: Taylor Moss

Lockdown Hair, 'Red Wall' Mums, Greek Goddesses Mar 01, 2021

As the government announces plans for summer school and tutoring to help children catch up on their learning we hear from parents who think it’s more important to just let them go out to play with their friends. Recent polling suggests that mums in the “Red Wall” seats of the Midlands and North of England – areas which traditionally voted Labour but have switched allegiance to back the Conservatives – are against cutting short summer holidays after such a difficult year. We hear from the mums and from Deborah Mattinson from the political consultancy Britain Thinks and from Justine Roberts at Mumsnet. Throughout the course of the history of Greek mythology there have been many Greek goddesses. These goddesses tend to have exaggerated personalities and are often plagued with personal flaws and negative emotions , but do we know everything we need to know about these mythological women and what if anything can we learn from them today? Writer and classicist Natalie Haynes along with historian Bettany Hughes are talking about Greek Goddesses as part of this year’s WOW - Women of the World Festival running online from today until the 21st of March. Just last week Cara Delevigne posted a photo of her new darker brown hair on Instagram saying 'Blondes have more fun but brunettes ....' So are you like Cara embracing your darker locks? Is the nondescript colour often described as 'mouse' making a comeback bought on by lockdown three? To discuss the latest hair trends is the writer and broadcaster Sali Hughes. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour - Camila Batmanghelidjh, Surrogacy, Women in Jazz Feb 27, 2021

In her first in-depth broadcast interview since winning the High Court disqualification case regarding the disbanded children's charity Kids Company, its founder, Camila Batmanghelidjh, explains why she fought so long and hard to be cleared. David Watkins is one of the first single men in the UK to have a surrogate baby after a law change in January 2019. David talks about becoming a father to baby Miles in July 2020. Faye Spreadbury, a married mother of two, explains what it was like to take on the role of surrogate. How important is empathy in leadership? Chef Angela Hartnett, and Belinda Parmar, CEO of the Empathy Business, discuss empathy and how business leaders can use it as a tool to manage staff emotions in the workplace. Charlotte Sibtain talks about her collection of more than 400 vintage wedding photos from charity shops, markets and the internet and her quest to track their owners. Novelist Julie Ma talks about her first book Happy Families which is centred around a Chinese takeaway, the Yau Sum in West Wales, and closely resembles the one she grew up in and now runs with her brother. BBC correspondent Mariko Oi explains Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) announcement that women will be invited to its all-male meetings: as long as they don't speak. Are women in the UK jazz scene facing discrimination and sexual harassment? Sarah Raine, an academic and anthropologist and Jas Kayser, who's a jazz drummer and musician, discuss gender equality in the music industry. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Weekend Woman's Hour: Women at breaking point, Revenge porn, The term 'witch' Feb 26, 2021

Why the latest lockdown has left so many women feeling at breaking point as they try to juggle home schooling and working from home simultaneously. Annie tells us her story and we hear from Leann Cross the Director of Homestart Greenwich and Sam Smethers the former Chief Exec of the Fawcett Society,. Model and TV personality, Zara McDermott talks about revenge porn. Intimate images of her were shared without her consent when she was 14 and again when she was 21. Sharing explicit or intimate images without consent has been illegal since 2015, when Baroness Morgan was in office as Minister for Women and Equalities. Baroness Morgan joins the discussion to talk about the change to the law, which has been failing women and girls. Harry Dunn was just 19 when he was was killed on his motorbike in Northamptonshire in 2019 when an American woman was driving on the wrong side of the road. His mum Charlotte Charles tells us about the latest ruling in the campaign to get Harry justice. Why are so many girls and women suffering from vulva anxiety? Alix Fox, a sex journalist, broadcaster and educator, and Dr Naomi Crouch, the Chair of the British Society for Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology discuss. A new TV campaign is urging people from BAME backgrounds to take the Covid-19 vaccine, We hear from Mehreen Baig who's backing the campaign and Dr Binita Kane a Consultant Respiratory Physician at Manchester University Foundation Trust. And the Classics scholar Mary Beard on how the term ‘witch’ has been used as an insult which she believes is an attempt to discredit her and older women generally. Presenter Anita Rani Producer Rabeka Nurmahomed

Buying sperm online. Author Julie Ma. Vintage wedding photos Feb 26, 2021

People wanting to start a family, who need to use a sperm donor say they feel forced into finding sperm online in unregulated spaces because NHS funding is rationed or they don’t qualify for it and it's too expensive to go to a private clinic. The UK’s fertility regulator has warned that doing so carries “significant risks”. We hear from the Chair of the HFEA and from two women who sought donors via the internet. Julie Ma's first novel Happy Families won the Richard and Judy/WH Smith 'Search For A Bestseller Competition' in October and has just been published. She talks to Anita about the book which is centred around a Chinese takeaway the Yau Sum in West Wales which closely resembles the one she grew up in and now runs with her brother. And Charlotte Sibtain who's collected more than 400 vintage wedding photos from charity shops, markets and the internet and tries to track their owners. Presenter Anita Rani Producer Beverley Purcell illustration Chris Vallance

Camila Batmanghelidjh Feb 25, 2021

In her first in-depth broadcast interview since winning the High Court disqualification case regarding the disbanded children's charity Kids Company, its founder, Camila Batmanghelidjh, psychotherapist and author, joined Emma earlier this week. The High Court judgement came about because the Official Receiver claimed that Camila Batmanghelidjh, and seven former trustees of the charity Kids Company, had failed to properly manage the charity in the final months of its existence. After a three and a half year case, and 10 weeks in court, Mrs Justice Falk praised Camila Batmanghelidjh for the “enormous dedication she showed to vulnerable young people over many years” and her achievements in building a charity that “until 2014 was widely regarded as a highly successful one". Camila tells Emma why she fought so long and hard to be cleared. Last week, the BBC obtained videos in which Princess Latifa, the daughter of Dubai's ruler described being held in solitary confinement after trying to flee the United Arab Emirates. Now BBC News has seen a letter from Princess Latifa which asks Cambridgeshire Police to re-open an investigation into her sister’s disappearance 20 years ago. Emma discusses the story with Jane McMullen, the BBC journalist who broke this story for Panorama with her film The Missing Princess and Rothna Begum, a senior women's rights researcher at Human Rights Watch. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Surrogacy and Single Fatherhood Feb 24, 2021

It's been announced that around 31,000 women in England will be offered the opportunity to do a smear test at home. It's all part of a trial by the NHS and experts hope it'll be a way to encourage more women to screen for the early warnings of cervical cancer. It's another step in helping women take charge of their own reproductive health. There are two consultations open at the moment. One which may see us being able to buy two brands of the contraception ‘Mini’ pills over the counter. The other is looking at whether to make permanent the current temporary arrangement allowing early medical home abortions, using pills sent through the post. Professor Lesley Regan, former chair of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists joins Emma to discuss the impact of these potential changes. David Watkins is a 42 year old teacher from Southampton and is one of the first single men in the UK to have a surrogate baby after a law change in January 2019. Previously, only couples were able to apply for a parental order, which transfers parentage from the surrogate to the intended parents after the baby is born. With the help of surrogacy and egg donation, David became a father to baby Miles in July 2020. Faye Spreadbury, a married mother of two, took on the role of surrogate. They join Emma to discuss the experience. Many of us have learned to work remotely over the last year and Parliament is no exception. This has allowed MPs to attend to Parliamentary business from their home. The Centenary Action Group is a cross-party coalition of over 100 activists, politicians and organisations that campaigns to lower barriers to women’s political participation. They say these measures should be allowed to continue once the pandemic ends as it would not only benefit MPs but would allow and encourage more women, those with BAME backgrounds and people who have disabilities to enter politics. Their 'Remotely Representative House' report sets out 21 recommendations for the future. The convenor of the group is Helen Pankhurst and Daisy Cooper MP is the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats. CBBC's Newsround has made its first ever film dedicated to menstruation, in the hope of breaking taboos and getting more girls - and boys - to talk about periods. The presenter, Lauren Layfield, talks about why ‘Let’s Talk About Periods’ is needed and what it was like discussing her own menstruation on film. She's joined by Chella Quint, the founder of Period Positive and a tireless campaigner for better menstrual education in schools and for society as a whole. Chella explains why there's still so much shame around menstruation and what needs to happen to break the cycle. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Professor Lesley Regan Interviewed Guest: Faye Spreadbury Interviewed Guest: David Watkins Interviewed Guest: Dr Helen Pankhurst Interviewed Guest: Daisy Cooper Interviewed Guest: Lauren Layfield Interviewed Guest: Chella Quint

Leadership and the effect of Covid-19 on leadership styles, Sex, Gender & the Census, Breast Reduction Feb 23, 2021

Is being a tough guy (or girl) no longer the key to getting on? How important is empathy in leadership now that we know the effect that working from home, juggling child-care, concerns about unemployment and dealing with grief are having on mental health and well being. Can businesses afford to be empathetic? Emma speaks to Chef Angela Hartnett and Belinda Parmar, CEO of the Empathy Business. The census is being held next month and for the first time the public will be asked about their gender identity as well as what sex they are. The campaign group Fair Play for Women isn’t happy about the guidance which has been issued to help people answer the sex question and they’re threatening legal action if the Office for National Statistics doesn’t make changes. Dr Nicola Williams from Fair Play for Women and the CEO of Stonewall Nancy Kelley talk to Emma Barnett about the issue. Kelly Michaud is 26 and has been left in ‘crippling pain’ due to her size H breasts. She’s now raising money to get a reduction after failing to get the operation funded by the NHS. She talks to Emma to her about why she decided to crowdfund for the operation and how to plans to raise awareness of the problem and help others too. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Women in Jazz, What women think about during sex, Japan: Women in meetings, One punch assaults. Feb 22, 2021

Are women in the UK jazz scene facing discrimination and sexual harassment? Sarah Raine, an academic and anthropologist, carried out research of ten interviews with anonymised female jazz musicians of a “notable level of success” who performed at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival event in 2019. Emma discusses the issues with Sarah, who is an academic at Edinburgh Napier University and researcher into gender equality in the music industry and with Jas Kayser, who is a jazz drummer and musician. In her last book, Don't Hold My Head Down, Lucy-Anne Holmes, writer and founder of the 'No More Page 3' campaign, described her “sexual odyssey” and compiled a list of things that would improve her sex life. She has now gone a step further and collected the testimonies of 51 women around the world, revealing their innermost thoughts and feelings during sex. There are women of all ages and sexualities. Lucy-Anne joins Emma to talk about the very varied experiences of female sexuality. Just days after Japan's Olympics chief was forced to resign over sexist comments, a prominent politician has announced that women will be invited to its all-male meetings - as long as they don't speak. What does this say about equality in Japan? BBC correspondent Mariko Oi joins Emma to discuss. Dehenna Davison was just 13 years old when her father Dominic died as a result of a single punch at a pub in Sheffield in 2007. Fourteen years on Dehenna, who is now Conservative MP for Bishop Auckland, has launched an all-party parliamentary group to investigate the impact of one punch assaults and to try and improve the lives of victims and their families. The first meeting will take place on Tuesday. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Zara McDermott & Baroness Morgan on Revenge Porn, The "Good Enough" mother, & Mehreen Baig on Covid 19 Jab campaign Feb 19, 2021

Anita Rani talks to Love Island Star Zara McDermott about her new documentary on the growing issue of Revenge Porn and we hear from Baroness Morgan about the government's efforts to tackle the problem. Dr Angela Joyce and Dr Tracey Jensen about the idea of the "Good Enough" Mother, a phrase first coined by the paediatrician and child psychoanalyst D W Winnicott as we mark the 50th anniversary of his death and presenter Mehreen Baig talks about the new tv film campaign urging people from BAME backgrounds to get the covid-19 vaccine. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio engineers: Gayl Gordon & Matilda Macari

Harry Dunn's Mum, Broken Hearts, TikTok Twins Feb 18, 2021

Harry Dunn was 19 years old when he was killed on his motorbike by an American woman driving the wrong way. His parents have been fighting for justice for their son since it happened in 2019. It happened near RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire. The suspect, Anne Sacoolas returned to the States claiming diplomatic immunity. Now Harry's family has been told Anne Sacoolas will face a civil claim and it'll be held in the States. Charlotte Charles joins us on Woman's Hour. There's a consultation going on about whether or not the mini-pill should be sold over the counter in UK pharmacies. The public are being asked for their views. We speak to Dr Sonia Adesara, who's a doctor with a special interest in reproductive health. Kiran and Nivi are American twin sisters who've become a TikTok sensation. They've become famous for their harmonies, emotion-filled lyrics plus doing versions of songs with an Indian twist. One track has had more than 15 million views. They join Emma to talk about the surprising way they discovered their voice and talent. When Rosie Green’s husband walked out after 25 years, he declined to leave a forwarding address. She was devastated. She says "heartbreak happens every day, but it doesn’t happen to YOU every day." As a writer for Red magazine, she was able to describe her heartbreak in articles and get advice from experts. That's all come together in her book How to Heal a Broken Heart. Rosie joins Emma to describe her journey from rock bottom to reinvention.

Mary Beard on witches, The Salmond Inquiry, Vulva anxiety in teenage girls Feb 17, 2021

Emma Barnett presents Woman's Hour with Mary Beard who talks about her new BBC Two show Inside Culture looking at witches and their enduring presence in culture. We get the latest from the Salmond Inquiry from BBC Scotland's Political Editor Sarah Smith and we hear from Dr Naomi Crouch and Alex Fox about the problem of vulva anxiety in teenage girls. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Engineers: Donald MacDonald and Matilda Macari.

Mums at breaking point... Feb 16, 2021

The pandemic has pushed many working mothers to breaking point. Juggling family and career is nothing new, but working a full-time job while simultaneously home schooling children for many weeks is unprecedented. A recent TUC report revealed that women are shouldering the lion's share of this responsibility, and that a lack of employer flexibility has left mums in an impossible situation. So how are these women coping? And for those that aren't, why do they feel so reluctant to talk about their struggles? Emma Barnett speaks to mum-of-three Annie about her experience. She's also joined by Sam Smethers, who recently stepped back from her role as chief executive of the Fawcett Society, and Leann Cross, the Director of Homestart in Greenwich. Christine Keeler: the woman who nearly brought down the government in the 60s. She had an affair with Secretary of State for War, John Profumo, when she was just 19. In an unconnected court case, but one which is also linked in a complicated saga, she ended up being sentenced to nine months in prison. She had been found guilty of perjury and obstructing the course of justice in the trial of a man who her son, Seymour Platt, says was obsessed with her. But now Seymour wants a pardon for his mother. Next month he'll send his legal application to the Lord Chief Justice. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Sam Smethers Interviewed Guest: Leann Cross Interviewed Guest: Seymour Platt

Losing a friend to suicide, Period pants, The release of Loujain al-Hathloul Feb 15, 2021

Loujain al-Hathloul, the Saudi women's rights activist, has just been released from prison after spending nearly three years in prison. Instrumental in the movement to allow women to drive in the kingdom, she was imprisoned in 2018, just weeks before the ban was lifted. We speak to her sister Lina who has led the campaign to free Loujain for the last three years. Why are period pants still being taxed and not classed as a sanitary product? With Ruby Raut, founder of WUKA period pants and Sarah Olney MP, who's leading an early day motion to remove the 20% tax. How do we cope with the grief of losing a friend to suicide? It has been exactly one year since TV presenter Caroline Flack took her own life. Caroline stood down as presenter of Love Island in 2019 after she was charged of assaulting her boyfriend. She pleaded not guilty, and was due to stand trial in March. Emma speaks to her close friend Ophelia Lovibond and to Sarah Bates from the charity, Support After Suicide. Christine Keeler: the woman who nearly brought down the government in the 60s. She had an affair with Secretary of State for War, John Profumo, when she was just 19. In an unconnected court case, but one which is also linked in a complicated saga, she ended up being sentenced to nine months in prison. Seymour now wants a pardon for his mother. Next month he'll start court proceedings. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour: Alleged systemic racism in NHS maternity, Care homes, It's a Sin Feb 13, 2021

We hear from Sandra Igwe, co-chair of an urgent inquiry set up to investigate how alleged systemic racism in the NHS manifests itself in maternity care and Dr Karen Joash, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Imperial College. After the Topshop buyout by online fashion retailer Asos, Topshop worker, and a lifestyle fashion blogger Kirsty Mead tells us what it’s like to pack up one of the shops in Leed for the final time. Some women in the ultra orthodox Jewish community believe the laws on forced marriage are not serving them adequately and action needs to be taken. We hear from Yehudis Fletcher, the founder of think tank Nahamu and Chaya Spitz, chief executive of the Interlink Foundation, which represents Orthodox organisations. Nearly a year into the pandemic, all over the UK there has been a push to pass legislation to allow better access to relatives and loved ones in care homes. 23 year old, university student, Lucy Challenor talks During the pandemic her mother and her grandmother have been in care homes with very little access. Dating expert Charly Lester and film director Richard Kurti talk about Mary Oliver who with her friend Heather Jenner set up the UK's first ever Marriage Bureau in 1939. The book she wrote nearly 80 years ago, the Marriage Bureau, about the successes and failures of her matchmaking business, has just been republished. LGBT campaigner and co-founder of Stonewall Lisa Power, actor Lydia West and Russell T Davies’ long time friend Jill Nadler discuss his new Channel 4 series It's a Sin and discuss the role women played in the AIDs crisis. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Lucinda Montefiore

Inquiry launched into NHS maternity 'systemic racism' Feb 12, 2021

An urgent inquiry to investigate how alleged systemic racism in the NHS manifests itself in maternity care was launched this week. Anita is joined by Sandra Igwe, co-chair of the inquiry and who set up The Motherhood Group to support Black mothers after her experiences of giving birth, and Dr Karen Joash, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Imperial College and spokesperson for race equality at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. Girls sit at home waiting for 'Mr Right, a nostalgic fantasy invented by their parents. There has to be a better way." The words of Mary Oliver who with her friend Heather Jenner set up the UK's first ever Marriage Bureau in 1939. The book she wrote nearly 80 years ago has just been republished and the story has caught the imagination of Hollywood producers. So who was Mary Oliver and how relevant is her advice today? Film director Richard Kurti who rediscovered Mary Oliver and dating expert Charly Lester discuss. As many as one in six young people now experience mental health problems ranging from depression to self harm and anorexia. The situation’s got worse over the last year of lockdowns and school closures leading some doctors to warn that the problems we’re seeing now are just the “tip of the iceberg”. Yesterday Emma spoke to the Children’s Minister Vicky Ford about young people facing mental health issues and where they can go for help. We were inundated with emails from concerned parents who have not been able to access the help they need. One mother, Lucy, shares her story with us. You may be familiar with the novels of Thomas Hardy- he’s known for his realist novels, often with tragic characters struggling against their passions, fate or the circumstances in which they find themselves. Although many feature strong female characters written with real sympathy – Hardy writes them from the point of view of an omniscient, all-seeing narrator. But over the coming year, Radio 4 is dramatizing some of the novels purely through the eyes of the prominent female characters. Hardy’s Tess of the D’Urbervilles will be first – this Sunday at 2pm. Later titles include Jude the Obscure, The Woodlanders, The Hand of Ethelberta and Two on a Tower. Katie Hims dramatized Tess of the D’Urbervilles and she joins Anita Rani to talk about writing the story from a female perspective. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Sandra Igwe Interviewed Guest: Dr Karen Joash Interviewed Guest: Richard Kurti Interviewed Guest: Charley Lester Interviewed Guest: Katie Hims

Children's Minister Vicky Ford; Scottish Care Homes; Novelist Daisy Buchanan Feb 11, 2021

As many as one in six young people now experience mental health problems ranging from depression to self-harm and anorexia. The situation’s got worse over the last year during the pandemic leading some doctors to warn that this is just the “tip of the iceberg” with a “timebomb” on the horizon. The children’s Minister Vicky Ford talks to Emma Barnett about the issues and how Children's and Mental Health Services around the UK are coping as well about her own battles with anorexia whilst growing up. With almost every elderly care home resident in Scotland now vaccinated and the three-week period to build immunity reached, relatives are calling on the government in Scotland, public health teams and care homes, to let residents see at least one close relative or friend in a more natural and regular way. The Broken Hearts campaign is led by Care Home Relatives Scotland, a Facebook group with 1700 members. Twenty three year old, Lucy Challenor is one of those. She explains the impact of having a mother and a grandmother in a care home with very little access. Are you a fan of sexy books? Jilly Cooper and Jackie Collins inspired Daisy Buchanan to write her first novel 'Insatiable' about the sexual adventures of Violet. She joins Emma to discuss writing fiction about female desire. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Sailor Pip Hare. Children and puberty blockers. Stalking slogans on Valentines Day Cards Feb 10, 2021

Pip Hare has been competing in the Vendee Globe race, sailing around the world, solo, non-stop and without assistance. She is on the home straight now and currently 20th place. Pip speaks to Emma from the Atlantic Ocean. Following a ruling by the High Court at the end of last year that children under 16 with gender dysphoria are unlikely to be able to give informed consent to being treated with puberty-blocking drugs, younger children now need a clinician to apply to the Court to be able to access puberty blockers, and all current referrals and appointments have been paused. We hear from Dr David Bell, former staff governor at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust and a consultant adult psychiatrist and get a response from the Trust. There is a stalking genre in valentines cards. Slogans on cards such as: Your stalker wishes you a Happy Valentines Day and stalker is a hard word - I prefer valentine. Katy Bourne, Sussex police and crime commissioner and main spokesperson on stalking for association of police and crime commissioners tells us why she wants them banned. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Clare Walker.

The women at the centre of the new drama 'It's a Sin'. Plus a look at the gendered economic impact of covid. Feb 09, 2021

'It’s a Sin', the new drama on Channel 4 by Russel T Davies tells the story of a group of young gay men living in London during the Aids crisis of the 1980s and 90s. At the centre of their lives is their friend Jill Baxter, who offers unconditional love and support. We meet the woman who inspired the character, Davies' long-time friend Jill Nalder, the actor who plays her on screen Lydia West and Lisa Power an LGBT rights campaigner and co-founder of Stonewall. A new report from the Women and Equalities Committee looks at the gendered economic impact of Covid 19 - we're joined by its Chair Caroline Noakes MP. Plus Pauline Bridge, who at 82 has been called Britain’s oldest paper "girl". And we hear from Kirsty Mead a Topshop worker, and a lifestyle fashion blogger whose video on TikTok of her packing up one of the shops in Leeds that's never going to open again, has gone viral. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell

Can all nurseries survive the pandemic?; Forced marriage; Re-creating the Bayeux tapestry Feb 08, 2021

At the beginning of the pandemic nurseries, pre-schools and many child minders shut down at the same time as schools, to all but the children of key workers and the most vulnerable. Most reopened in June and have remained open ever since. Providers of early years education have been urging the government for more money, saying that a lack of demand over the last year has put them under even more financial strain and many may not survive. Emma speaks to Stephanie Carless who runs a preschool in the West Midlands, and Shannon Pite, Public Affairs Director for the Early Years Alliance. Some women in the ultra orthodox Jewish community believe the laws on forced marriage are not serving them adequately and action needs to be taken. Emma is joined by Yehudis Fletcher, the founder think tank Nahamu, which aims to counter what it sees as extremism in the Jewish community; and by Chaya Spitz, chief executive of the Interlink Foundation, which represents Orthodox organisations. Mia Hansson is a 46 year old artist and stay at home mum, who is recreating a full-scale replica of the Bayeux tapestry. Mia started stitching 4 years ago, and thinks she'll be finished stitching sometime in 2027.

Weekend Woman's Hour: Arlo Parks performs, Susannah Constantine and alcoholism & internet sensation Jackie Weaver Feb 06, 2021

The singer/songwriter Arlo Parks was named the BBC Introducing Artist of the Year in October. She tells us about her debut album Collapsed in Sunbeams – and performs the track Green Eyes. Susannah Constantine the author, journalist and fashionista tells us about her alcoholism. Sober now for seven years, she believes a lot of women are struggling with alcohol addiction during lockdown. She tells us about the feelings of shame surrounding her drinking and how she believes it leads to a sense of isolation and loneliness. We hear why women are at the forefront of protests in India against new farming laws. BBC’s South Asia Correspondent Rajini Vaidyanathan and Usha Seethalakshmi from Makaam, a forum for Women's Farmers Rights in India discuss. The Ministry of Justice recently announced plans for up to 500 new prison cells to be built in women's jails. They say these will be created in existing women's prisons to increase the number of single cells available and improve conditions. But these announcements have drawn criticism from a number of organisations. We hear from Kate Paradine from Women in Prison, Joy Doal the CEO of Anawim, a Women’s Centre in Birmingham, and from Lucy Frazer the Prisons Minister. Zara Mohammed is the first woman and the youngest person to be elected to lead the Muslim Council of Britain - the largest umbrella organisation representing British Muslims. She discusses her new role with us. And the internet sensation Jackie Weaver tells us all about ‘that’ Parish Council Zoom meeting. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Lucinda Montefiore Guest: Susannah Constantine Guest: Rajini Vaidyanathan Guest: Usha Seethalakshmi Guest: Arlo Parks Guest: Lucy Frazer Guest: Joy Doal Guest: Kate Paradine Guest: Zara Mohammed Guest Jackie Weaver

Wrestling star Aleah James, Jackie Weaver, Indian farmers, Julia Kogan and nominations for the Golden Globes Feb 05, 2021

Anita Rani talks to 23 year old wrestler Aleah James who was signed by WWE in the middle of lockdown. Normal try outs involve a rigorous selection process, with over 80 athletes, but Aleah bypassed this and was hired on the exceptional promise she showed. We hear from Mrs Weaver, Jackie Weaver, star of the parish council zoom row which has gone viral. Thousands of farmers in India have been protesting against new farming laws in India. As the protests grow women are now said to be increasingly taking a more prominent role. We hear from the BBC's South Asia Correspondent Rajini Vaidyanathan and from Usha Seethalakshmi from Makaam, a forum for Women's Farmers Rights in India The writer and opera singer Julia Kogan has just won a high court battle to be credited for her part in writing the script for the Oscar nominated film Florence Foster Jenkins, starring Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant. We talk to her and Dr. Daniela Simone, a Senior Lecturer at Macquarie University and an expert in copyright and collective authorship. And Hannah J Davies, the Guardian's Deputy TV Editor and film critic Anna Smith tell us about the Golden Globes Film awards later this month. The shortlist for best director has more women than men for the first time, but there's also been some surprise at who hasn't made it through. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Managers: Duncan Hannant and John Boland.

Harassment when training, Zara Mohammed, Marie McCourt Feb 04, 2021

A top-class Welsh athlete, one of the best, says the abuse that women get when out training has to stop. Rhiannon Linnington-Payne, who runs the 400 metres and is training for The Commonwealth Games, has spoken out about the harassment she's received when doing her daily training sessions on a road near her home. Other women say it happens to them too. Zara Mohammed is the first woman, and the youngest person, to be leader of the Muslim Council of Britain. Her background is in Human Rights Law and she says it's her vision to "build a truly inclusive, diverse and representative body". She hopes her appointment will inspire more women and young people to take on leadership roles. She joins Emma to talk about her new role. Marie McCourt's daughter, Helen, was murdered in February 1988. Her killer was convicted on overwhelming forensic evidence, but refused to reveal the location of her body. Marie, now 77, has never given up finding her. At the beginning on this year, Helen's Law came into effect which makes it a legal requirement for the Parole Board, when they make a decision about a murderer's release date, to consider their failure in disclosing the location of a victim. However, Marie wasn't able to prevent the release of Helen's murderer in 2020. It's lockdown, and are you trying to carve out extra private spaces in your home? If you've got an open-plan set-up, are putting walls back up?* Are you finding space in a shed or a cupboard under the stairs? Mother of four, Amy Harty, has created an extra bedroom in her 3 bed house for just £140! She joins Emma to explain how, along with Laura Jane Clark, architect and expert on BBC Two’s Your Home Made Perfect. * Do check building and fire regulations.

Singer Arlo Parks, Suzanne Heywood on the legacy of her husband Jeremy Heywood and Journalist Nadine White Feb 03, 2021

Emma Barnett talks to the singer/songwriter Arlo Parks who was named the BBC Introducing Artist of the Year in October and she'll share a special version of the track Green Eyes with listeners and Suzanne Heywood the widow of the late top civil servant Jeremy Heywood talks about her husband's legacy and we hear from the journalist Nadine White. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Photo Credit for Arlo Parks: Alex Kurunis

Dolly Parton, Women In Prison Feb 02, 2021

Dolly Parton has sold 100 million albums and published over 3000 songs. There's a new book about her by Sarah Smarsh who says we don't know enough about Dolly's philanthropy. Dolly's given million of books around the world and has donated thousands of dollars to families living in the Smoky Mountains where she's from. Sarah's book is called She Come by It Natural and she's on Woman's Hour to explain how influential and significant Dolly is for generations of women. The Ministry of Justice recently said 500 new prison cells would be built in women's jails. They say it's to improve conditions, and some prisons will now let women have overnight visits with their children. They say they're putting in £2 million of funding, via charities, to help women yet the plans have drawn criticism. Why?

Susannah Constantine, How Work Fits into your Life Feb 01, 2021

Susannah Constantine describes herself as an author, journalist, PA to three teenagers and middle-aged lapsed fashionista turned podcaster to the wardrobes of the superstars! She has recently written about her alcoholism. Sober now for seven years, she wrote the article because she felt a lot of women are struggling. This is borne out by figures from Alcohol Change UK, who have seen a huge increase in the number of women coming their website since the first lockdown started, with 173,580 female visitors, an increase of more than 100% on the previous year. Susannah joins Emma to describe the feelings of shame surrounding drinking, especially for women, and how it leads to a sense of isolation and loneliness. And she talks about the positives of her life post drinking Writer Sarah Jaffe joins Emma to talk about the ideas in her new book, Work Won't Love You Back. She argues we've been sold an idea that certain work is not really work and should be done for the sake of passion rather than pay. She looks particularly at how gender and the labour of love myth interact, how the devaluing of work in the home has lead to a devaluing of certain work outside (eg childcare, domestic work, nursing, teachers etc) . She examines the notion that paid work is a liberation for women particularly when the amount of work women do in the home has not been significantly reduced. She asks how the unpaid intern came about, the overworked teacher, the boss who describes the work place as 'like a family'', how the labour of love myth permeates almost every area of our lives and at what cost. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour - Samantha Cameron; Rhod Gilbert on male fertility; Afro hair and discrimination Jan 30, 2021

Samantha Cameron talks about setting up her own clothing brand and what life was really like at Number 10. Katiann Rocha from the Halo Collective, an organisation of people working to put a stop to hair discrimination and Emma Dabiri, author of the book Don’t Touch My Hair discuss discrimination against afro hair. Internationally-renowned primatologist and conservationist, Dame Jane Goodall on climate change and how the planet has changed over the decades. Breathing coach, Rebecca Dennis and Mike Thomas, a professor of primary care research and expert in the use of breathing exercises for asthma at the University of Southampton discuss why we need to be taught how to breathe. Comedian Rhod Gilbert on male fertility and his campaign to raise awareness and encourage men to be open, engage and be a part of the conversation. Rhod Gilbert: Stand up to Infertility is on the BBC iPlayer and BBC Two on Sunday at 10pm. Following Elaine Paige’s admission that her height has made her feel horribly insecure throughout her life, Elizabeth Carr Ellis shares her feelings about the challenges that come with being smaller in stature. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Lisa Jenkinson

Can the way we breathe change our mental and physical health? Jan 29, 2021

Can the way we breathe change our mental and physical health? With Rebecca Dennis, author of new audiobook 'Breathe', and Prof Mike Thomas from the University of Southampton. The campaign for a statue of Emmeline Pankhurt's forgotten sister and the first woman to die for the suffrage movement Plus a look at new research which reveals discrimination against Afro hair in the UK is widespread, with black people stating they have experienced microaggressions around their hair. And Ann Wolbert Burgess the woman who inspired the character of psychologist Dr Wendy Carr in the TV series Mindhunter. Presenter Anita Rani Producer Beverley Purcell

Samantha Cameron; Rape cases - legal challenge to the CPS; Rachael Burford on Girls' Rugby Jan 28, 2021

Samantha Cameron spent six years at number 10 Downing Street with her husband David in the glare of the media spotlights. She was there through the tumultuous years of the Scottish and EU referendums - issues which still rage today - witnessing some of the biggest political changes for generations. She was the youngest first lady for 50 years, juggling family life and a new baby with a high pressure job. She is credited with modernising the upmarket stationers Smythson and has now set up her own clothing brand Cefin. She talks to Emma about life at number 10, family, fashion and business. Rape victims at the heart of a landmark court case say they have been failed by the Crown Prosecution Service. A judicial review lodged against the CPS by the Centre for Women’s Justice (CWJ) and End Violence Against Women (EVAW) coalition is being heard in the Court of Appeal this week. They say that a change in tactic has led to a more cautious approach and a subsequent collapse in rape prosecutions. To discuss the issues Emma is joined by Harriet Wistrich, Director of the CWJ. Former rugby World Cup player Rachael Burford talks about setting up the Girls Rugby Club to give the game an international boost. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Rhod Gilbert on male fertility; teenage girls and social media; and talking to children about the Holocaust Jan 27, 2021

Men don't talk about fertility and society largely views fertility as a woman's issue despite the fact that men are said to be a factor in around half of all fertility issues between couples. That's the view of the stand up comedian Rhod Gilbert who is raising awareness of the issue and wants men to open up and be part of the conversation. He's made a BBC documentary 'Stand up to Infertility' where he shares his own struggles to conceive with his wife Sian. Stand Up to Fertiliy is streaming now on BBC iPlayer and on BBC Two on Sunday 31st January at 10.00pm. A new study indicates teenage girls experience a sharper decline in well-being and self-esteem compared with boys due to “heavy social media use". It has also suggested that the pandemic might be making it worse. The report - by the think tank, the Education Policy Institute, and the Prince's Trust - calls on the government to act quickly to improve mental health support for schools in England. Emma is joined by Whitney Crenna-Jennings , the author of the report, and Matt Haig - the author and mental health campaigner who decided to leave twitter earlier this week - where he had nearly half a million followers. Today is International Holocaust Memorial Day where we remember the millions of people murdered by the Nazi regime. For decades, survivors have spoken about their experiences in the hope that nothing of its kind will ever be repeated. But when the last survivors are gone, who will tell their stories? And how do we talk to children about such harrowing events? Children’s author, Liz Kessler has written fictional a novel called When The World Was Ours that was inspired by the true story of her father’s escape from Czechoslovakia. Noemie Lopian is the daughter of Holocaust survivors Ernst Israel and Renee Bornstein. Ernest wrote The Long Night about his time in 7 different concentration camps and several death marches. They join Emma to discuss why it’s so important to talk to children about the Holocaust and the parallels between now and then.

Women and Gambling. Interim Mayor of Liverpool Wendy Simon. True Stories from a Life in Forensic Medicine Jan 26, 2021

Women and Gambling. Pauline and Derek Tremain are a couple who work together, running a small business from home in Kent. It's not your run of the mill business however, they provide a very specialist service called 'body mapping' to police forces up and down the country, painstakingly recreating murder injuries with 3D imaging for juries to look at. They talk to Emma about their memoir How to Solve a Murder - True Stories from a Life in Forensic Medicine. Elaine Paige is an award-winning star of the West End and Broadway. . What, you may ask, would such a woman have to worry about? Well if you've been reading the Radio Times or the papers recently, you'll know that her height - just 4 foot 11 has made her feel horribly insecure throughout her life and caused her to be both literally and metaphorically overlooked. We hear from Elizabeth Carr-Ellis from Canterbury who's the same height and knows exactly how she feels. Wendy Simon found herself unexpectedly running a city from her living room in December, as Interim Mayor of Liverpool. She explain how she took the reins in such a challenging time. Presenter Emma Barnett Producer Beverley Purcell

Jane Goodall; Female cabinet ministers on TV; Coercive control Jan 25, 2021

Internationally-renowned primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall discusses the tragedy of lost nature and the positive action needed to combat climate change. Does it matter if female cabinet ministers are missing from flagship political programmes and TV briefings? Emma speaks to former Government minister Anna Soubry, and later in the programme to Therese Coffey MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. In the new episode of Grounded with Louis Theroux, musician FKA Twigs says she was coercively controlled. What can you do if you find yourself in a psychologically abusive relationship? IMAGE CREDIT: Bill Wallauer

Broadcaster Clemency Burton-Hill on learning to speak again. Plus Katie Price talks about her son Harvey. Jan 23, 2021

Clemency Burton-Hill gives her first broadcast interview to Emma Barnett since she suffered a brain haemorrhage a year ago. She talks about how music has helped her ongoing recovery, and how she has learnt to speak again. Sindiso Khumalo & Dr Christine Checinska on the V&A museum's African fashion exhibition, Plus Katie Price on her son Harvey who was born with Septo-optic Dysplasia, a rare disorder that affects brain function. Her family have lived their lives in the public eye for more than 15 years - and now in a new BBC One documentary, we see her having to make tough decisions about his future as he turns 18. There’s been a surge in calls to domestic abuse services in the pandemic as couples spend more time at home together - the majority of calls coming from women. For many victims and survivors, work is usually a place of respite. We hear from Business Minister Paul Scully who's written to employers urging them to be a bridge between their workers, spot domestic abuse and offer the support they need. And the lives of Irish women in the US in 19th and why they were called Bad Bridgets Presenter Anita Rani Producer Rabeka Nurmahomed

Managing Money, Domestic Violence and Housing, Bad Bridgets Jan 22, 2021

Women trying to escape domestic violence can spend months on end in a refuge or in unsuitable temporary accommodation due to lack of suitable housing. The Local Government Ombudsman has just published a highly critical report about how the London Borough of Wandsworth spectacularly failed one victim of domestic abuse. We hear from ombudsman investigator Cameron Black, women in this situation. And we ask Lucy Hadley from Women’s Aid whether the forthcoming Domestic Abuse Bill will resolve some of these problems. Throughout the 19th century, tens of thousands of Irish women left to make their fortunes in the US. But what happened to these women once they reached the Land of Opportunity? Dr Elaine Farrell of Queen's University Belfast and Dr Leanne McCormick of Ulster University have pieced together their stories. They talk to Anita Rani about drunkenness, sexual deviancy and the lives of crime led by those they call 'Bad Bridgets'. How have young women's finances been over the past 12 months? The lockdowns have put serious financial pressure on lots of people, but others have been able to curb their spending habits as shopping and eating out became impossible. What are the tools young women need to look after themselves? Iona Bain is the founder of Young Money Blog and the author of Own It, and Selina Flavius is the author of Black Girl Finance: Let's Talk Money. Archaeologist turned computer scientist, Iris Kramer, has created an AI tool that can sweep for sites of historical interest that are hidden to the human eye. The entrepreneurial PhD student has secured many grants to found her company Arch-AI. Presenter: Anita Rani Reporter: Carolyn Atkinson Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Katie Price talks about her son, Harvey Jan 21, 2021

Katie Price and her family have lived their lives in the public eye for more than 15 years - and now in a new BBC One documentary, she's having to make tough decisions about her son Harvey's future. Born with Septo-optic Dysplasia, a rare disorder that affects brain function, hormones and vision, Harvey is moving onto the next stage of his development as he turns 18. Katie joins Emma to discuss. Senior judges in the Family Courts were heavily criticised last year for outdated views on allegations of marital rape in family court proceedings. This week the Court of Appeal is holding a legal review into the Family Courts’ approach to domestic abuse and sexual violence for the first time is 20 years. Barrister, Dr Charlotte Proudman explains why this review is both important and necessary, and why it may prompt cases being overturned. It's been reported that the former First Lady Melania Trump did not write her own thank you letters to her White House staff. The goodbye letters were allegedly written by an aide. Around 80 White House staffers received a typed note from the outgoing First Lady, and were under the impression she wrote them herself. But two sources familiar with the letters claimed Mrs Trump outsourced the work to a lower-level East Wing staffer. Comedian and writer, Katy Brand reveals where she stands on thank you letters. Christina McAnea is the new leader of the UK's largest trade union UNISON, also the fastest growing in Europe. Representing 1.4 million public sector workers - around 80% of which are women - we ask what's top of her in-tray when she starts in the job tomorrow? Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Kirsty Starkey Editor: Karen Dalziel Interviewed Guest: Katie Price Interviewed Guest: Charlotte Proudman Interviewed Guest: Katy Brand Interviewed Guest: Christine McAnea

Clemency Burton-Hill, V&A African fashion exhibition, Liverpool Mayor Wendy Simon, Presidential Inauguration. Jan 20, 2021

Emma Barnett with Clemency Burton-Hill's first interview since she suffered a brain haemorrhage a year ago today. She talks about how music has helped her ongoing recovery, and how she has learnt to speak again. Sindiso Khumalo & Dr Christine Checinska on the V&A museum's African fashion exhibition, the new interim mayor of Liverpool Wendy Simon talks about being thrust into the role last month as Covid 19 cases were rising exponentially and as Joe Biden assumes the US Presidency we hear from Sarah Elliot from Republicans Overseas UK and Joan Walsh, the National Affairs Correspondent for The Nation and a CNN political contributor. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson

Ballerinas & Babies, Working From Home Safely, Delayed Smear Tests Jan 20, 2021

Some top British ballerinas have become new mums during lock-down. In fact, there are so many in the Royal Ballet that they've created a Whatsapp group. We know that being a ballet dancer is competitive and careers can be short, so has lock-down given the chance to get pregnant? Lauren Cuthbertson, is principal of The Royal Ballet and had her baby a few weeks ago, and Tara-Brigitte Bhavnani, first artist of The Royal Ballet, is due in April. There’s been a surge in calls to domestic abuse services. As so many of us are working from home at the moment the Business Minister has written to employers urging them to be a be supportive as they can be, and that means helping victims of abuse in the home. We hear from Paul Scully. When it comes to the Covid vaccine, research from the University of Glasgow indicates that BAME communities are much less likely to get the vaccine if or when it's offered. Reasons include language barriers and misinformation. We hear from Dr Zubaida Haque, as well as children speaking various different languages to persuade their grans and granddads to get the jab. The Welsh Labour MP, Alex Davies-Jones, says she was left without the majority of her cervix because she delayed getting a smear test. She wants to tell other women not to make the same mistake. According to the Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee, the MP Caroline Nokes, more then six hundred thousand women could miss their routine smear tests during the pandemic.

Lana Clarkson, Cosmetic Fillers, Confessions of a Duchess, Debut novel Girl A Jan 18, 2021

Music producer Phil Spector who has just died in a California jail was serving a life sentence for the murder of the actor Lana Clarkson. Lana Clarkson starred in a number of 1980s B movie sci-fi films like "Barbarian Queen" but at the time she met Spector she was working in a bar. Emma is joined by the biographer of Phil Spector, journalist and author Mick Brown. New exclusive research by reporter Melanie Abbott for Woman's Hour has found more and more aesthetic doctors and nurses are treating women for mistakes made injecting fillers by untrained practitioners. Melanie Abbott, Sharon Bennett from the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses and Labour MP Carolyn Harris from the all party parliamentary group on Beauty, Aesthetics and Wellbeing join Emma. Duchess is the new podcast from Duchess of Rutland Emma Manners and daughter Lady Violet in which they talk to titled women who are responsible for ancestral piles around the UK. They have their own huge place, Belvoir Castle, and they join Emma to discuss the pros and cons of running such a business. We've all seen images in the press of houses where terrible things happened and heard stories of children held captive by their parents. Abigail Dean's first novel 'Girl A' is told by Lex the survivor, the one who flagged down a car and escaped from 'The House of Horrors'. It explores the impact on 'Girl A', as she was dubbed, of childhood trauma. She and her six siblings have different stories and different outcomes - what happens to those left behind when the headlines and the fascination fall away? Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour - Healthcare workers on the frontline, Debbie McGee and Naomi Paxton, virginity testing Jan 16, 2021

Emma, a pediatric nurse, who has been redeployed to an Intensive Care Unit talks about what it’s like to care for Covid patients and the daily stress and pressure currently experienced by health care professionals. Amy Pope, former deputy home security advisor to President Obama talks about Congresswoman Liz Cheney, one of ten Republicans who crossed the floor and voted with the Democrats to impeach President Trump for the second time. Author Debra Waters and science journalist and author Helen Thomson talk adult crushes. Should we see crushes as normal, exciting and harmless ways of understanding ourselves and our needs? Or is it morally questionable if you’re in a loving, committed relationship? We hear from Anjali Raman-Middleton who went to primary school with Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah who was nine years old when she died in 2013. She had a rare and severe form of asthma. Angali co-founded 'Choked Up' with three other teenagers to lobby against the pollution that contributed to Ella's death. Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, Natasha Rattu, Director of Karma Nirvana and Dr. Naomi Crouch Chair of the British Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology Society and spokesperson for The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists talk about the Virginity Testing (Prohibition) Bill that was introduced in the House of Commons by Richard in December . Debbie McGee and Naomi Paxton talk about being sawn in half and what it’s like to be a magician’s assistant. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Lucinda Montefiore

Wonder Woman at 80; Virginity tests; Bridgerton; Choked Up Jan 15, 2021

As Wonder Woman 1984 hits video on demand services this week, a new generation is introduced to the superhero styled as Diana Prince. Later this year, she'll celebrate her 80th anniversary - so what is her story? And what makes her so culturally relevant still? G Willow Wilson is one of the women who's written for the comic series. Richard Holden, MP for North West Durham, introduced the Virginity Testing (Prohibition) Bill into the House of Commons in December. His interest was sparked by an investigation for BBC Newsbeat and 100 Women which found that virginity tests are being offered at British medical clinics. Richard joins Anita to explain why he wants to make this controversial practice illegal. She also speaks to Dr. Naomi Crouch, Chair of the British Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology Society and spokesperson for The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Natasha Rattu, barrister & Director of the charity Karma Nirvana. If the first lockdown was all about watching Normal People on TV, why is this lockdown all about Bridgerton? We hear from writers Marian Keyes and Kathryn Flett and from the Bridgerton star Kathryn Drysdale. Anjali Raman-Middleton is a 17 year old activist, and one of the founders of Choked Up, a group set up by black and brown teens campaigning for changes to clean air laws. Anjali went to primary school with Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah, who died, aged 9, in 2013. At an inquest in December, Ella become the first person in the UK to have air pollution listed as a cause of death.

Adult crushes, Identifying migrants lost at sea, Kishwer Falkner and the EHRC Jan 14, 2021

Everyone remembers their first teenage crush - that feeling of butterflies in the stomach and uncontrollable blushes. As we age, crushes still occur but they tend to be a guilty secret. But are there benefits to having a crush? Facebook introduced a secret crush feature in December last year and it is claimed that crushes can induce mood-boosting chemicals. Should we see crushes as normal, exciting and harmless ways of understanding ourselves and our needs? Or is it morally questionable if you’re in a loving, committed relationship? Emma is joined by Debra Waters, who won the Bridport Prize last year for her short story "Oh Hululu" about an adult crush, and Helen Thomson is a science journalist and author whose new book is called 'This Book Could Fix Your Life' in which she shares her advice on affairs of the heart. Yesterday, the eyes of America were mainly on one woman. Congresswoman Liz Cheney was one of ten Republicans who crossed the floor and voted with the Democrats to impeach President Trump for the second time, something that has never happened before to a President. A key trigger in all of this was, of course, the storming of the Capitol Building last week. Cheney laid blame firmly at the feet of President Trump and criticised his role in stoking the attack. So who is Liz Cheney and is she the political heroine some are saying she is? Is she trying to save the Republic from doom and destruction at its most desperate hour? Emma talks to Amy Pope, former deputy home security advisor to President Obama An estimated 30,000 migrants and refugees have lost their lives in the Mediterranean in the last fifteen years. One of the largest shipwrecks took place in October 2013 when a boat went down off the Italian island of Lampedusa, killing 366 migrants on board. A second tragedy, with an even larger loss of life, happened in April 2015 when a boat sank carrying 1000 refugees and migrants travelling from Libya to Italy. Cristina Cattaneo, Professor of Forensic Medicine at the University of Milan, has spent the last five years voluntarily running a project with others to identify just some of those who died. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has a new chair. Her name is Kishwer Falkner. The EHRC's most recent and high-profile investigations have been into pay at the BBC and anti-Semitism within the Labour Party. Its twitter tag line says that it’s here to “to stand up for freedom, compassion and justice in our changing times”, but it has its critics too. The Women and Equalities Committee once said it needed to overcome its ‘timidity’, and be ‘bolder’. That was in 2019, so has it?

Debbie McGee and Dr Naomi Paxton, author Angie Thomas, Nurse Sarah Link who lived in a caravan for 9 months to protect her mum Jan 13, 2021

To mark the centenary of the infamous ‘sawing-a-woman-in-half’ illusion, Emma Barnett talks to Debbie McGee and Dr Naomi Paxton, also to author Angie Thomas about her new book "Concrete Rose" the prequel to her bestseller "The Hate U Give", Joan Bakewell talks about her legal challenge over the government's decision to delay the second dose of the Covid 19 Vaccine for elderly and we hear how the the nurse Sarah Link lived in a caravan for nine months outside her family home in Cradley Heath in the West Midlands to protect her mum from catching Covid. The programme includes a clip of Baroness Boothroyd courtesy of Sky News Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson

Young women and vaccines; Vaccine Deployment Minister Nadhim Zahawi; Lisa Montgomery, Death Row, Sex and the City Jan 12, 2021

Around 2.3 million people in the UK have received 2.6 million doses of vaccine. Yesterday we heard they're planning to vaccinate 2 million people a week, until the middle of February with the aim of reaching the most vulnerable who've accounted for 88% of deaths from Covid 19 so far. A recent poll showed more than a quarter of 18-to-34-year-old women said they would say no to a Covid jab, citing concerns over the vaccines effect on their fertility and pregnancies. Emma talks to Professor Lucy Chappell, Research Professor in Obstetrics at Kings College in London and spokesperson for the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists; and to the Vaccine Deployment Minister Nadhim Zahawi. Lisa Montgomery, the only woman on federal death row, was due to be executed by lethal injection later today, but a reprieve has been granted. Lisa was convicted for the gruesome murder of a 23-year-old woman who was eight months pregnant. The baby miraculously survived. Emma speaks to Leigh Goodmark, Marjorie Cook Professor of Law and Co-Director, Clinical Law Program. She assisted the defence team with advocacy for Ms. Montgomery. Sex and the City: After six series, 94 episodes and two films - the women are making a return - but without Samantha - the feminist icon played by Kim Cattrall. The lead character and producer Sarah Jessica Parker yesterday announced they would be back with 10 half-hour episodes - showing us how their lives have changed now they're in their 50s. Reaction has been mixed. Hadley Freeman is a columnist and feature writer for the Guardian and a BIG fan of Sex and the City. She explains how she feels on hearing it is coming back. This is an edited version of the programme. Presented by Emma Barnett Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Bullied by my kids; Alexandra Heminsley; Healthcare workers on the frontline Jan 11, 2021

Listeners and practitioners offer advice and support to parents living with violent children. Pat Craven from the Freedom Programme, and Karina Kelly who advocates Non-violent Resistance join Emma. Author of Running Like a Girl, Alexandra Heminsley has written a new memoir about having a baby after much difficulty and finding out not long after that her husband is set on transitioning. She talks to Emma about this tumultuous time of her life. The Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, has said this morning that right now we are at the worse point of the epidemic in the UK. He said over 30,000 people who have it are in the NHS system at the moment. In a tweet he's said "the number of people in ICU is rising rapidly." So what about the army of healthcare professionals who are looking after Covid patients? What's the toll on them? We've already had emails from healthcare workers saying they're close to handing in their notice because of the strain and others describing the daily stress and pressure on the wards. Emma speaks to a paediatric nurse who's been redeployed to an adult Intensive Care Unit. and Nicki Credland, Chair of the British Association of Critical Care Nurses.

Weekend Woman's Hour - Holly Humberstone, #metoo & Imelda Staunton as the Queen Jan 09, 2021

We have music and chat from singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone who has been named as runner up of the BBC Sound of 2021. Helen Lewis, staff writer at the Atlantic and Melissa Melewski lecturer in American politics at The University of Sussex discuss the role women played in this week’s violent protest when the Capitol building in Washington was stormed by Trump Supporters. We hear from Hannah who has been ghosted by her mum. We discuss the unintended consequences both positive and negative of the #metoo movement with Gudrun Young, a defence barrister and Sarah Green, Director of End Violence Against Women. And we have a special message from Her Majesty the Queen and the actor Imelda Staunton tells us about her latest role playing the Queen on television. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Louise Corley

Singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone. Lockdown family pressures. BPAS not for profit IVF Clinic. Jan 08, 2021

We hear from the singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone who's the runner up in the BBC Sound of 2021. Caroline Aldridge's eldest son Tim had a bipolar disorder and he passed away before he could access treatment. She’s talks about her book "He Died Waiting " which outlines why she thinks mental health services failed him. We unveil new data showing the pressures facing families over school closures and managing paid work. Plus why the British Pregnancy Advisory Service has announced it will open a not-for-profit IVF clinic later this year in Central London. Presenter Andrea Catherwood Producer Beverley Purcell

Carol Ann Duffy, Women and US riots, Tree Activist Maria Gallastegui and Scottish Judicial Review on Definition of Woman Jan 07, 2021

The poet Carol Ann Duffy - who served as the first woman poet laureate between 2009-2019 and has won numerous awards for her poetry including the Whitbread, Forward and T. S. Eliot Prizes - joins Emma with a poem which feels particularly apt in the current circumstances, as we enter another lockdown and people are separated from their families and friends – it is called Long Table. Carol Ann talks to Emma about what she has been doing in lockdown and the importance of writing in recording our experiences over the past year. The world looked on in horror yesterday in what has been described as an act of domestic terrorism as thousands of President Trump supporters ransacked Congress and stormed the Capitol building in Washington. Their aim? To bring a violent halt to the formal confirmation of his election defeat. Before they headed to the building, Trump roused his followers to fight for him - and his lawyer - the former mayor of New York Rudy Guliani said: "Let's have trial by combat." To look at the photos, you would think it was a march dominated and led by gun toting, animal skin-wearing men. It was men who sat in chair of the US speaker of the House - Nancy Pelosi and in the Senate chamber - two of the defining images of the riot. But women were there and are there as part of the mass online movement which led to this action: Stop the Steal. What role do they and are they playing in these groups? Emma speaks to Helen Lewis, staff writer at the Atlantic and author of the book Difficult Women and Melissa Milewski, lecturer in American politics at University of Sussex. A tree has been pulled down in Hackney. So what? Trees get pulled down all the time. But it wasn’t just any old tree: it was 150 years old, and was called The Happy Man, named after a pub that used to be nearby. Campaigners have been trying to save it for months and despite the bitter cold they've been in the branches, even sleeping in them. One of them is Maria Gallastegui and she joins Emma to talk about her experience. A key legal hearing starts in Scotland today with a campaign group challenging the Scottish Government over the meaning of the word “woman”. For Women Scotland has been granted a judicial review into the Gender Representation on Public Boards Act 2018 (GRPBA) which was passed as part of efforts to drive up the number of women in senior positions on public bodies. Its wording covers trans women who have changed their legal sex from male to female using a gender recognition certificate, as well as others who are “living as a woman” and are “proposing to undergo” such a change “for the purpose of becoming female”. Emma Barnett talks to Susan Smith from For Women Scotland and to Jennifer Ang from Just Rights Scotland about the review.

#MeToo - the victories, the criticisms and the unintended consequences Jan 06, 2021

The #MeToo movement exploded across social media and into the public consciousness in late 2017. In case you missed it, Me Too aimed to show the scale of harassment and sexual violence in society and raise awareness of women who've been abused. Amid shared stories from women of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds, it exposed not only the magnitude of sexual assault but the systemic failure to stop it. It's the most visible, feminist, social media movement of recent times. But what are the victories, criticisms and unintended consequences of #MeToo? A year on from the start of Harvey Weinstein's trial in New York City, we hear reflections from actors Rosanna Arquette and Caitlin Dulany, who have both accused Weinstein of sexual assault. Emma is also joined by defence barrister Gudrun Young; the Director of End Violence Against Women, Sarah Green; and the author Lionel Shriver.

The Closure of Schools, Ghosted by Mum, Naked Walkers Jan 05, 2021

We're in another lockdown. Schools are shut like last time. Only children of key workers and those who are vulnerable can go in. Listeners have already been in touch expressing their concerns. We want to hear from you. Is it the right thing to do? Why has the messaging been so inconsistent. What impact will school closures have on working life, parents and children? How different is this from where we were in March? We want to hear from you. We’ve talked about ‘ghosting’ before on Woman’s Hour, usually in the context of relationships where a partner or prospective partner just suddenly disappears and cuts off all communication. Hannah, a listener, wrote to us to tell us her story of being ghosted by her own mother. She talks to Emma. Lockdown has been a perfect opportunity for people to get outside and explore the great outdoors. But would you consider doing it in the nude? Donna Price - a volunteer for British Naturism and head of the Women in Naturism campaign says that despite women's fears about body image and being leered at by men, walking and swimming naked with other people can be the most liberating, confidence-building and joyous of experiences. But what does it feel like crossing from being a clothes-clad member of society into being naked with strangers? Journalist Caroline Steel reflects on her own experience and the revelations she had about the way society views women's bodies. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Emma Barnett presents Woman's Hour with Imelda Staunton, Mel C, Jeremy Hunt and Richard Ratcliffe Jan 04, 2021

Emma Barnett presents her first edition of Woman's Hour with music from Mel C, Imelda Staunton on her new role in The Crown and the latest on Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe from her husband Richard and the former Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt. Presenter: Emma Barnett Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Editor: Karen Dalziel

A farewell to Jane Garvey, Women on the moon, Ageing well Jan 02, 2021

Holly Ridings is the first woman to be Nasa's chief flight director and is in charge of the Artemis programme - named after Apollo's twin sister - which will land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024. She tells us about the challenges involved with space travel and what makes a good astronaut. More and more of us are living longer - so how can we do it better? Consultant Geriatrician Dr Lucy Pollock, CEO of the Centre for Ageing Better Anna Dixon, and Dr Niharika Duggal from the University of Birmingham explain how to approach independence, exercise, and even driving as we get older. As The Archers celebrates 70 years, we look at how farming - the backdrop of the radio drama - has changed for women since it's been on air. Felicity Finch, who plays Ruth Archer, meets Mary Quicke - one of the real life inspirations behind the storylines. What makes the night sky so magical? We speak to Karine Polwart, a folk singer whose new work takes inspiration from the stars she watched as a child. And, of course, we say goodbye to Jane Garvey who leaves Woman's Hour after 13 years. The journalist Elizabeth Day quizzes Jane, and we listen back to some of her funniest moments. Presenter: Melanie Abbott Producer: Rosie Stopher Editor: Sarah Crawley

Women and the Archers: how farming has changed, female scriptwriters, the role of gossip and future characters. Jan 01, 2021

Woman's Hour celebrates the 70th anniversary of The Archers, looking at the female characters and storylines that have shaped the programme, presented by Felicity Finch (Ruth Archer). How have the roles of women in farming changed over the last 70 years in the real world and in The Archers? From Jill Archer who is often portrayed more as a traditional farmer's wife to Ruth who is very much in partnership with David to Pip who is a thoroughly modern farmer and appears to be in pole position to inherit the farm. Helen Archer has also made a foray into cheese-making. Felicity hears from Mary Quicke of Quicke’s cheeses, who is cited by Agricultural editor of The Archers as an inspiration for Helen’s storyline. Female scriptwriters only began on The Archers in 1975. They brought a new perspective to the programme, revitalising its profile and cementing its place in the British psyche. One of the first women to write for the show was Mary Cutler. She joins Felicity to talk about what it was like during those early years and her most memorable stories for female characters during her 40 years writing for the show. Felicity also talks to Naylah Ahmed, who has been writing for the show for 5 years. Susan Carter is often at the heart of what is going on in the village of Ambridge and is known as the village gossip. According to a recent study, men and women gossip on average for 52 minutes every day. But Susan’s gossip is often perceived as malicious and small-minded. Charlotte Martin who plays Susan actually works as a psychologist when she’s not on the programme. She joins Felicity, Dr Cara Courage and comedian Angela Barnes to discuss the role of gossip on the show. One of the unique and strange things about playing a character in Ambridge – is that the storylines unfold over years, so you grow old with the programme. Younger characters, as they age, inherit the standing of more established characters, and none of them know where they might end up. So we asked the actor Katie Redford – who plays Lily and Emerald O’Hanrahan who plays Emma to talk about their hopes for their characters in the future. Our guests also muse on the characters who might be missing that they hope might turn up in Ambridge one day. Presenter: Felicity Finch Producer: Clare Walker

Looking back on a momentous year & Jane Garvey's last programme Dec 31, 2020

We look back at the end of a momentous year. Jane revisits listeners we spoke to during 2020, Sarah whose father died from Covid in April, Lizzie who gave birth alone to baby Bibi in May, Gillian who’s been battling with Long Covid, and Deborah whose (good-natured) bickering with her partner escalated during lockdown. And author, journalist and How to Fail podcaster Elizabeth Day interviews Jane about all the things that have and haven't gone right during her time at Woman's Hour. Presenter: Jane Garvey Interviewed guest: Elizabeth Day Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

What's in a name? Dec 31, 2020

What do our first names really say about us? More than you might think, according to Dr Jane Pilcher, Associate Professor at the University of Leicester. She claims that our names often reveal important clues about our age, social class and ethnicity that might affect the way that we are treated by other people. She joins Jane, along with name expert and the founder of the British Baby Names website, Eleanor Nickerson to discuss what's in a name. How has this classic British name become synonymous with being middle of the road? The actor Jane Asher turned 71 earlier this month and was born in the year that Jane entered the UK top 50. Jane Brody celebrated her 30th birthday last week and was born the year after Jane stopped being a UK top 100 name. Woman's Hour listener Victoria Smillie wanted to change her surname following her divorce, but realised in doing so that she had never been happy with her given name, Lesley, either. So she changed both. They are joined by another of our listeners, Tracy, who truly hates her name but can't quite bring herself to lose it. By the age of three, Esther Robertson had had three different first names and surnames. Esther joins Jane to discuss how her changing name has affected her life. The author Charlotte Mendelson keeps lists of names and can deliberate for hours about what to call the characters in her novels. She joins us along with the journalist and editor Alex Clark to discuss the best and worst names in books. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Laura Northedge.

Getting old Dec 30, 2020

More and more of us are living longer but we don’t talk enough about what it means to be old, according to Consultant Geriatrician Dr Lucy Pollock. The author of ‘The Book about Getting Older’ tells us about what she’s learnt about looking after the old and their families over many years, and the practical things that people can do to make things happier in old age. We also hear from Anna Dixon, CEO of the Centre for Ageing Better. Exercise - and building muscle - can help you stay healthier longer into old age. Dr Niharika Duggal from the University of Birmingham explains how muscle improves our immunity. Janine Rickus from Extend, an organisation that specialises in exercise classes for older people, gives advice on the moves that'll keep you on your feet in old age. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Women and Space: Nasa's Holly Ridings, the psychology of space travel, Rocket Women and the cultural significance of space Dec 28, 2020

Holly Ridings is the first woman to be NASA's chief flight director. She was appointed in 2018 and is responsible for missions to the International Space Station, the Orion spacecraft and commercial spacecraft. She is also in charge of the Artemis programme - named after Apollo's twin sister - which will land the first woman and next man on the Moon by 2024, using innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before and potentially lead to further missions to Mars. She is responsible for 32 flight directors who are overseeing human spaceflight at the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. How do you know if you’re fit enough psychologically to go into space? What do you need to do to survive in such close quarters with other people? When it comes to Mars, the focus is often on how to get there: the rockets, the engines, the fuel. But upon arrival, what will it actually be like? Jane speaks to Kate Greene author of “Once Upon a Time I Lived On Mars” and to Dr Iya Whiteley, Director of the Centre for Space Medicine at Mullard Space Science Laboratory, University College London. What are the jobs for women in space? Vinita Marwaha Madill is founder of Rocket Women which aims to inspire women around the world and provide advice on working in the space and technology industries. And finally, what is the cultural significance of space and the moon to us? It is the site of so much folklore, myth and legends and has spawned countless books, films and songs. Looking up at the stars is a trope of romance – but it also a reminder of how small and insignificant our own lives are – seen against the life of the cosmos. For that reason many ask – should we even be going to the moon or Mars? Jane discusses this with the folksinger Karine Polwart who is writing a new theatre piece called “The Only Light Was Stars” and Dr. Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian who is a driector, member of the SETi Institute, Vice-Chair of The Committee for the Cultural Utilisation of Space and director and founder of the International Space Orchestra in NASA. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Clare Walker

Oti Mabuse's second Strictly win; Virtual child protection conferences; Liz Berry's poetry Dec 26, 2020

Labour MP Stella Creasy joins us to discuss buy now pay later services, and whether they should be regulated. Oti Mabuse and partner Bill Bailey have been crowned Strictly Come Dancing champions as they took the 2020 glitter ball trophy home on Saturday. Oti Mabuse is the first professional to win the competition two years in a row. Next year, she is going on tour with her new show ‘I AM HERE', which explores her journey from growing up in South Africa, to becoming a multi-award winning dancer. The mezzo-soprano Patricia Hammond is celebrating the parlour song. Composed by women, these domestic songs of the Victorian era have largely been marginalised or forgotten. In her new book and CD, She Wrote the Songs, she tells us about the women behind the songs and their importance to musical history. We heard earlier in the pandemic that in-person meetings for vulnerable children had become mostly impossible. But now child protection professionals feel that face-to-face conferences are unlikely to ever resume. So what does that mean for the children in question? And what is missed as a result? Lisa Harker from the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory joins us. A new BBC three-part drama Black Narcissus tells the story of a group of Anglo-Catholic nuns who travel to the Himalayas to set up a school in an abandoned clifftop palace, which was once known as the 'House of Women'. It's adapted from Rumer Godden's 1939 novel, and the writer Amanda Coe joins Jane to discuss. The breast surgeon and breast cancer survivor, Liz O'Riordan, tells us the story behind her 'Jar of Joy'. And the award-winning poet Liz Berry shares her evocative poetry inspired by her love for the Black Country. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Rosie Stopher Editor: Beverley Purcell

Christmas Day on Joy Dec 25, 2020

Christmas Day programme about Joy. Jane Garvey is joined by the Rev. Kate Bottley, who brings the Christian perspective of joy at Christmas, and talks about her personal passion for ice water swimming. Natalie Maddix is the founder and Creative Director of the House Gospel Choir. She describes the joy of communal singing and shares some of the choir's uplifting music. The breast surgeon and breast cancer survivor, Liz O'Riordan, tells us the story behind her 'Jar of Joy'. The crime writer Sophie Hannah explains her theory of finding joy - even in the most adverse of circumstances. Tonia Buxton is a chef and consultant at the Real Greek Restaurants. She gives details of her family's ‘dirty’ Christmas sandwiches and her family recipes for Greek Liver stuffing. Woman's Hour listener Joy Barnard tells her story of being adopted at Christmas in 1961, and Lynette and Daisy reveal what brings them personal joy. Presented by Jane Garvey Producer: Louise Corley RECIPES Greek Christmas Liver Stuffing Ingredients 50g/2oz butter 1 onion finely chopped livers from your turkey finely chopped ( I like to add another pack of 200g ) ½ cup/ 75g/3oz long grain white rice rinsed ½ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cloves ½ cup/ 75g/3oz of sultanas. ½ cup/ 75g/3oz of pine kernels 1 ½ cups/275ml/ 10fl oz water sea salt & coarsely ground black pepper Method In a frying pan add the butter & fry the onion until softened. Add the liver & continue to fry till browned. Then add the spices, seasoning, pine kernels & sultanas & rice. Stir in the water & bring to the boil. Cover with a lid & simmer for 10/12 minutes. You can either stuff the bird or put it in a shallow casserole dish, cover with foil & warm before serving. Melomakarona Greek Christmas biscuits This wonderful recipe is one I have taken (with permission ) from my friend Asimakis Chaniotis who is the most exciting young Greek Chef who has a Michelin star as well as many other accolades. He has refined this traditional recipe that is handed down from generation to generation. https://www.asimakischaniotis.co.uka Ingredients For the syrup 500 g water 800 g granulated sugar 150 g honey 3 stick(s) cinnamon 3 cloves 1 orange, cut in half 1st mixture 400 g orange juice 400 g seed oil 180 g olive oil 50 g icing sugar 1/2 teaspoon(s) cloves 2-3 teaspoon(s) cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon(s) nutmeg 1 teaspoon(s) baking soda orange zest, of 2 oranges 2nd mixture 1 kg all-purpose flour 200 g semolina, fine Method For the syrup : Boil all the ingredients apart from the honey until the sugar melts and let it to be cold for 3-4 hours Preheat the oven 190 In one big bowl mix with a hand whisk all the ingredients from the 1st mixture In a separate bowl mix the ingredients from the 2nd mixture Combine the 1st bowl to the 2nd and mix by hand gently Bake them for 20-25’ Soak the hot cookies to the cold syrup Let them drain on a wire rack Drizzle with honey (optional ) and walnuts

Tracy-Ann Oberman plays Katherine Hepburn on NYE on R4 Dec 24, 2020

‘Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner’ was a famous 1967 film about an inter-racial marriage in the US. Filmed against the backdrop of race riots that took place the same year, it starred Sidney Poitier, Spencer Tracey, Katherine Hepburn and Katherine Houghton. Actor, Tracy-Ann Oberman has written a play called ‘That Dinner of 67’ looking at what happened during the making of the film. She talks to Andrea Catherwood about playing the iconic Ms Hepburn. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has deemed an Instagram campaign by online shopping firm Klarna, that ran in April and May, as ‘irresponsible’ for encouraging shoppers to use their ‘buy now, pay later’ service to cheer themselves up during the pandemic. The Swedish company has over 10 million customers in the UK, with an average age of 33. Its model allows payments to be staggered for products, with no fees or interest. Consequently, companies with similar models to Klarna, do not have to abide by Financial Conduct Authority rules, and thus customers are not protected and risk getting into debt. The Labour MP Stella Creasy is spearheading a campaign to make an amendment to the Financial Services Bill to better protect consumers. In her book ‘The Little Library Christmas’, Australian-born food writer Kate Young guides you through the Christmas period with festive food, edible gifts, reading recommendations and suggestions for Christmas films. She joins Andrea to talk about how to Cook the Perfect Jansson’s Temptation – a Swedish dish that she cooks every year as one of her Christmas rituals. The stereotypical Christmas scene is familiar - a big house, warm fireplace, and plenty of space for Father Christmas to leave the presents. But that's not the reality for most children. Which is why Hollie McNish wrote her poem 'You do not need a chimney', to reassure children living in flats and hostels that St Nick will still be able to get to them. Hollie joins us to read the poem, along with Sue Whitfield, who's had help from Homestart - the charity that will benefit from sales of the poem. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Tracy-Ann Oberman Interviewed Guest: Stella Creasy Interviewed Guest: Kate Young Interviewed Guest: Holly McNish Interviewed Guest: Sue Whitfield Photographer: Joseph Sinclair

Oti Mabuse, Domestic Abuse and Kinship Care, Quarry Bank Cotton Mill, Samantha Evans, Fire fighter. Dec 23, 2020

Oti Mabuse and partner Bill Bailey have been crowned Strictly Come Dancing champions as they took the 2020 glitter ball trophy home on Saturday. Oti Mabuse is the first professional to win the competition two years in a row. Next year, she is going on tour with her new show ‘I AM HERE', which explores her journey from growing up in South Africa, to becoming a multi-award winning dancer. The increase in domestic abuse during the pandemic has been widely reported. The charity Family Rights Group works to keep children safe in their families and advise parents whose children are in need, at risk or in care, and support kinship carers raising children. Their chief executive, Cathy Ashley, confirms that rise and says that domestic abuse is now the most common reason given by callers to their free advice line as to why social workers have become involved with their family. She also explains why grandparents so frequently become kinship carers in these situations. Quarry Bank cotton mill stands on the outskirts of Manchester, it is now a National Trust property . It features in a play called The Whip by Juliet Gilkes Romero a new audio version of which is now available on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s YouTube channel. The play tells the story of the cover-up of the death of a child working at the mill. Louise Adamson went to Quarry Bank back in 2017 to see an exhibition about the lives of the women and children who worked there and the songs they sang as the worked. Samantha Evans is West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s first female whole time firefighter. When Samantha joined the service in 1990, there were no female shower facilities on station, and no other women in the team. Samantha is now retiring, after 30 years of service. Presented by Jessica Creighton Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Being diagnosed with ASD at 27; Parlour songs; Child protection conferences Dec 22, 2020

We heard earlier in the pandemic that in-person meetings for vulnerable children had become mostly impossible. But now child protection professionals feel that face-to-face conferences are unlikely to ever resume. So what does that mean for the children in question? And what is missed as a result? Journalist Marianne Eloise was recently diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, aged 27. She says it finally gives her an explanation of why she has found it difficult to simply exist; from experiencing extreme sensory overload in situations others find normal, to never being able to make small talk. Marianne joins Jane to talk about her personal breakthrough and why she believes it’s harder for women and girls to be diagnosed as autistic. The mezzo-soprano Patricia Hammond is celebrating the parlour song. Composed by women, these domestic songs of the Victorian era have largely been marginalised or forgotten. In her new book and CD, She Wrote the Songs, she tells us about the women behind the songs and their importance to musical history. Listener Prue wrote to us about a recent discovery that’s made her question her past. For her seventieth birthday, Prue, a family history buff, got a DNA kit from her nieces. There were no surprises with the results about her geographical origins. Then she realised could also find people with matched DNA, and she was shocked to find out her late dad was not her biological father. Since then Prue’s been trying to find out who her father was- with the help of people she’s met online. Jo Morris met with Prue at her home.

Black Narcissus - Amanda Coe, Cerys Matthews & Liz Berry, Xmas coping strategies, Power List Carolyn Cobbold, Dec 21, 2020

New BBC three-part drama Black Narcissus tells the story of a group of Anglo-Catholic nuns who travel to the Himalayas to set up a school in an abandoned clifftop palace, which was once known as the 'House of Women'. Adapted from Rumer Godden's 1939 novel, the writer Amanda Coe joins Jane to discuss. Coping strategies over the Christmas period with the psychologist Laverne Antrobus. Carolyn Cobbold is No. 10 on the Woman's Hour Power List 2020: Our Planet. She's worked tirelessly to quite literally change the shape of coastal defence, leading the Manhood Peninsula Partnership to secure funding for the largest coastal realignment project in Europe. The musician and DJ Cerys Matthews tells us about her latest album 'We Come From the Sun' which involved collaborating with the Hidden Orchestra and 10 poets. She's joined by the award winning poet Liz Berry who talks about her track Christmas Eve. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Sharon D Clarke, Food and class prejudice, Gender stereotypes Dec 19, 2020

Sharon D Clarke talks about her role as The Narrator in an audio adaptation of “Peter Pan”. Three women from this year's Power List - physicist and climate researcher Prof Joanna Haigh; one of the leads from the Climate Assembly Prof Rebecca Willis; and Guardian Environment Correspondent Fiona Harvey discuss how we understand and talk about climate change. Sharon Hague from Pearson talks about a new study by the Fawcett Society into gender stereotypes and the damaging effect it has on society. Leading gynaecologist and early pregnancy specialist Dr Jessica Farren talks about miscarriage and and the grief that can be exacerbated by the festive period. Food historian, Pen Vogler talks about our eating habits and reveals how they are loaded with centuries of class prejudice. The Panamanian-American conductor Kalena Bovell talks about her international conducting debut at the Southbank with Chineke! Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Lucinda Montefiore

Sharon D Clarke; Gender bias in school books; Outliving your mum - Claire's Story Dec 18, 2020

An audio adaptation of Peter Pan with music will be launched on Christmas Eve in support of Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital, that will feature a host of actors - Olivia Colman, Bertie Carvel, Kenneth Branagh, Jane Horrocks, Clive Rowe, and Sharon D Clarke. She joins Jane to talk about her role as The Narrator, who in this version is Wendy’s great granddaughter. A new study into gender stereotypes suggests that they’re still widespread in 2020 and causing life-long harm. The Fawcett Society has spent the last 18 months gathering evidence as part of their Gender Stereotype Commission and they say the problem persists in terms of parenting, education and the commercial sector. Jane talks to Sam Smethers from the Fawcett Society and to Sharon Hague from the education resources specialist Pearson which has contributed to the report and subsequently changed the teaching material if offers to schools. How does it feel to reach the age your Mum was when she died? Jo Morris has been hearing from women who feel a clock ticking. Their stories are all different but they have one thing in common – none of them have felt able to talk about this before. They didn’t want to worry their loved ones or vocalise these dark thoughts. They describe their fears as well as the joy of ordinary life and the freedom that comes from realising that you are not your mother. Today, Claire's story. We meet two more women from the Woman's Hour Power List: Our Planet. Judy Ling-Wong is the founder and Honorary President of the Black Environment Network, and Zarina Ahmad is a Climate Trainer at CEMVO Scotland. They've both dedicated their work to making the environmental sector a safer and more inclusive place for ethnic minority groups, and they join Jane to discuss the gains made and the work still to do.

Franny Armstrong and climate comedy, Violence against women and girls, Women with learning disabilities and employment Dec 17, 2020

Environmental filmmaker and Woman's Hour power lister Franny Armstrong thinks it's time for a bit of climate comedy. Having spent the best part of two decades making serious documentaries such as The Age of Stupid, Rivercide and McLibel, Franny talks about reaching new audiences with her film Pie Net Zero, featuring fake news reporter Jonathan Pie. A 10 week consultation period run by the Home Office looking at violence against women and girls has just been launched focusing on "the crimes that disproportionately affect women and girls ranging from rape to FGM to upskirting and online offences." We hear from Safeguarding minister Victoria Atkins. Women with learning disabilities are among the thousands of older and disabled people who've been described during the Covid crisis as ‘vulnerable’. But many are unhappy with that label – because not only have they been working throughout the pandemic – they've been working on the frontline. Statistically women with learning disabilities are the least likely to have a job. Disability Affairs reporter Carolyn Atkinson has been hearing from women with learning disabilities. Diane Lightfoot, CEO of the Business Disability Forum and Claire Cookson, CEO of DNF Project Search discuss. Christmas can be a particularly hard time for those who have experienced miscarriage or subfertility. Leading Gynaecologist and early pregnancy specialist Dr. Jessica Farren shares insights from her own personal experience of miscarriage and those who she has cared for. Presenter: Andrea Catherwood Producer: Dianne McGregor

Dance Special Dec 16, 2020

As we approach this year's final another chance to hear Jane Garvey celebrating all things Strictly. A dance special with chief Strictly judge Shirley Ballas, Love Island participant and professional ballroom dancer Curtis Pritchard, Professor of Dance History Theresa Buckland from Roehampton University, Sujata Banerjee, a Kathak artist and educator and Ingrid Mackinnon, a choreographer who teaches jazz, ballet, modern & African dance. We find out why dancing makes you feel good plus Curtis gives Jane a twirl round the dance floor and proves it's never too late to put on your dancing shoes.

Online Harms Bill, Food and Class, Talking about Climate Change Dec 15, 2020

The government’s long delayed full response to the online harms white paper will be published today. New rules will be introduced for tech firms which allow users to post their own content. Firms who fail to protect people face fines of up to ten percent of turnover or the blocking of their sites. Popular platforms will be held responsible for tackling both legal and illegal harms and all platforms will have a duty of care to protect children using their services from being exposed to harmful content. Jane Garvey talks to the Minister in charge of steering the bill through the House of Commons Caroline Dinenage. Food historian Pen Vogler, author of Scoff, puts our eating habits under a microscope and reveals how they are loaded with centuries of class prejudice. As she says, "most Brits could read a shopping basket as though it were a character sketch: Typhoo or Earl Grey, Kingsmill or sourdough". If, she says, we spent less time scoffing at other people's eating habits and more time thinking about how everyone could have the same access to good food, then maybe Britain's reputation for bad food could be a thing of the past. The way we understand and talk about climate change has shifted dramatically in the past couple of years. To discuss why, Jane speaks to three women from this year's Power List - physicist and climate researcher Prof Joanna Haigh; one of the leads from the Climate Assembly Prof Rebecca Willis; and Guardian Environment Correspondent Fiona Harvey. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Kalena Bovell, conductor; Family Secrets, Sustainable Fashion Dec 14, 2020

The Panamanian-American conductor Kalena Bovell, is quickly becoming “one of the brightest stars in the world of classical music.” Currently Assistant Conductor of the Memphis Symphony Orchestra , she is making her international conducting debut at the Southbank with Chineke! Europe's first majority Black, Asian and ethnically-diverse orchestra. She describes how she first discovered she could sing and fell in love with the violin, before finding her life’s passion of standing on the podium in front of an orchestra, and explains her ambition is to conduct an orchestra behind heavy metal band Metallica. All families have secrets and back in 2018 when we asked listeners to tell us some of their stories Moira wanted to talk to us about a secret that has affected her life. Now 57, she grew up an only child with her mum and dad in Swansea. She speaks to reporter Jo Morris. Safia Minney MBE is number 28 on the Woman's Hour Power List: Our Planet, for her pioneering work in making fashion more sustainable. As the founder of People Tree and Real Sustainability, she's worked for decades to change how people think about clothes. But how has that changed over the years? And how can we enjoy fashion and clothing without having a negative impact? Safia joins Jane, along with influencer Venetia LaManna and ByRotation founder Eshita Kabra-Davies to discuss. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Weekend Woman's Hour: Dame Stephanie 'Steve' Shirley, Make-up for Men & the benefits of working with Clay Dec 11, 2020

Dame Stephanie Shirley – always known as Steve – tells us about her work revolutionising the workplace and as a major philanthropist. On Tuesday, Leicester University are launching their 'Student Sex Worker Policy and Toolkit'. We hear from Professor Teela Sanders, a Professor of Criminology at Leicester University who explains why she is leading this initiative and the feminist commentator and journalist Sarah Ditum gives us her view. Are men beginning to turn to cosmetics to improve their appearance in the same way as women? Danny Gray, who created the WarPaint make-up range for men believes this to be the case and the make-up artist, Lisa Eldridge, author of Face Paint: the History of Make-Up gives her thoughts. What’s the best way to approach shyness in your child? We hear from Nadia Finer who runs an online programme for shy 7-14 year olds who want to feel braver, and more able to speak up and join in. Is it time to end the idea that being in a couple is the superior way to live? We hear from Professor Sasha Roseneil the author of a new book, The Tenacity of the Couple-Norm. And we discuss the therapeutic benefits of clay with Kate Malone, one of the UK’s leading potters and ceramicists – and Charlotte Clarkson, who’s been getting the chance to try out the medium at her local youth centre. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Sarah Crawley

Ockenden Review, Puberty Blockers, Student Sex Work Policy Dec 11, 2020

This week the first part of The Ockenden Review into Maternity Services at the Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS (SaTH) Trust was published. It urges improvements in the way mothers and babies are looked after, not just in Shrewsbury but across England. We talk to the local MP there, Lucy Allan, as well as Gill Walton from The Royal College of Midwives and Jayne Terry who's an obstetrician in London. We have part 2 of our series which talks to parents about puberty blockers. Today we hear from a mum, who we're calling Nichola, who's seriously worried about her child taking them. And Leicester University are launching a Student Sex Worker Policy and Toolkit. Why? What is it? And does it suggest that choosing sex-work as a option for earn money whilst studying is a good idea? We discuss with Professor Teela Sanders from Leicester University, and Sarah Ditum, who's a feminist writer and columnist.

Puberty blockers - parents' reaction, Pottery, Power List : Diane Gilpin, A Girl from Mogadishu - Ifrah Ahmed Dec 10, 2020

Last week the High Court ruled that it was ‘unlikely that children under 16 could give informed consent to puberty blocking drugs. The Tavistock - which runs the only clinics in the UK that have been offering this treatment on the NHS – is seeking to appeal the judgement. Meanwhile NHS England have suspended all new referrals for puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones for the under 16’s. Children already on the drugs will have their cases reviewed, and a court order will be required to start or to continue treatment. We asked you to get in touch if you were affected. Today, we hear from ‘Jen’ – not her real name – whose 14 year old was due to start assessment for puberty blockers this week. On Friday, a parent we’re calling Nicola who has serious concerns about this treatment for her child, talks to us. Around 90% of the goods we buy spend at least some of their life travelling the world's oceans. Cargo ships are efficient in terms of cost but burn large quantities of thick, unrefined fossil fuels and generate more emissions each year than Germany or Canada. So how can this globally-important industry reduce its impact on the planet? Diane Gilpin, CEO of Smart Green Shipping, believes that harnessing the tried-and-tested method of wind power and sail could halve emissions and save millions in costs on fuel. She talks to Jane about how intelligent, 40m-high aluminium sails will bring shipping into the 21st century. Kate Malone is one of the UK’s leading potters and ceramicists – and she is keen to share the therapeutic benefits of working with clay. She joins Jane along with Charlotte Clarkson, who’s getting the chance to try the medium for herself at a local youth centre. Somali- born Ifrah Ahmed was just eight when she was subjected to female genital mutilation. At 17, she was smuggled out of the country alone and ended up in Ireland. She’s now an Irish citizen and a successful campaigner against the practice of FGM. She was instrumental in bringing about legislation banning the practice in Ireland. Her inspiring story has been made into a film ‘A Girl from Mogadishu’ and she joins Jane to tell her story, along with the film’s director Mary McGuckian Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Brexit negotiations, Parenting a shy child, Cook the Perfect with Claire Thomson Dec 09, 2020

Boris Johnson is in Brussels today to have a face to face meeting with European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. They’re trying to find a post-Brexit trade deal. So how will the dynamics work between the two? Sonia Purnell used to work with Boris Johnson in Brussels when they wrote for the Telegraph together. She’s written a biography about him. And Maria von Welser knows Ursula von der Leyen. They wrote a book together about women in German society. What’s the best way to approach shyness in your child? Nadia Finer joins Andrea to offer her advice. She runs an online programme called The Mighty Mob. It's for 7-14 year olds who want to feel braver, more able to speak up and join in, and more comfortable to be themselves. Nadia, who is shy herself, says that shy children do not need to change who they are, nor should we make them. In her new cookbook The Home Cookery Year, Claire Thomson offers solutions for quick dishes that are easy to make in minimal time at the end of a busy working day. The former chef and mother of three discusses cooking with her children during lockdown, with only half a kitchen, and how to Cook the Perfect…Brussels Sprout Galette with Pancetta & Chestnuts. We’ve been asking women how it feels to reach the age their mum was when she died. Today’s story is a bit different. Beth is 24 and her story is complicated. When she heard we were looking for stories on this subject she thought, at first, that she didn’t have anything to say.

Gail Bradbrook: co-founder of Extinction Rebellion Dec 08, 2020

Extinction Rebellion has used civil disobedience to put the climate crisis firmly at the top of the news agenda. It’s also attracted women and whole families to take to the streets to protest for the first time in their lives. Gail Bradbrook, the co-founder of XR and one of the women on this year’s Woman’s Hour Power List, joins Jane to talk about the support for – and criticisms of – the use of protest to bring about systemic change in the name of the planet. Are men beginning to turn to cosmetics to improve their appearance in the same way women use them? According to Danny Gray, who created the WarPaint make-up range, says they are. He’s seen a huge increase in interest from men, which he partly puts down to the amount of time they’ve spent looking at themselves on Zoom. He discusses this trend, and the make-up artist, Lisa Eldridge, author of 'Face Paint; the History of Make-Up', explains the background behind men and their use of cosmetics. It’s time to end the idea that being in a couple is the superior way to live, according to a new book, 'The Tenacity of the Couple-Norm'. The couple-norm is the ubiquitous idea that being in a couple is the normal, natural and better way of living. It’s such a powerful norm that being in a couple is almost synonymous with being a successful adult. The authors – academics from 4 different countries - argue that, amidst enormous transformations in our ideas about family life and relationships in past decades, this norm has remained largely unchallenged and unchanged, making life difficult for anyone who departs from it. The lead author, Professor Sasha Roseneil, joins Jane. Gail Newsham features in the latest series of The Game Changers podcast which showcases trailblazing women in sport. Gail Newsham has spent the last three decades researching and sharing the story of the Dick, Kerr Ladies. One hundred years ago over 50,000 turned out to watch them play a match. She explains why the team was so important in the history of women’s football. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Gail Bradbrook Interviewed Guest: Lisa Eldridge Interviewed Guest: Danny Gray Interviewed Guest: Professor Sasha Roseneil Interviewed Guest: Gail Newsham

Ladies' Loos, Family Secrets, Dame Stephanie Shirley Dec 07, 2020

What goes on in the ladies? Office gossip, getting locked-in, the most embarrassing moments, confessing to a stranger, a place for bonding, bullying, and bunking-off? We hear your stories about women’s toilets, with Comedian Shazia Mirza and Historian Claudia Elphick. Dame Stephanie Shirley – always known as Steve – joins Jane to talk about her career-spanning book of speeches So to Speak. Now 87, she’s a successful IT entrepreneur who revolutionised the workplace for women and is now a major philanthropist. She's in demand for public speaking and often starts by giving her own story of arriving here on the Kindertransport in 1939, one of 10,000 Jewish children fleeing Nazi Germany. She says she has done more since that day than she would ever have believed possible. We continue our series on family secrets. Today we hear about a woman in her late forties who has a secret which has affected her life since she was a teenager. And we get the latest about vaccines from GP Sarah Jarvis.

Working in retail; Sparking a love of nature; Women’s innovation in tech; Women and underpaid state pensions, Evil women Dec 05, 2020

Non-essential shops reopened in England this week after the second Lockdown - thousands of jobs now hang in the balance. We hear from Joanne Cairns, deputy head of research at USDAW and Catherine Shuttleworth, retail analyst. The Woman’s Hour Power List recognises the work of 30 inspiring women who are making a positive contribution to the environment and the sustainability of our planet. Beccy Speight, CEO of the RSPB which is the UK’s largest conservation charity and Miranda Lowe, Curator at the Natural History Museum in London talk about their work to spark our interest in the environment and nature. Two of this year’s TechWomen100 Award winners June Angelides MBE and Rav Bumbra on how to encourage more women and girls to work in the tech industries. Many women have been underpaid state pension. Steve Webb, partner at Lane, Clark and Peacock and Jasmine Birtles financial expert and director of MoneyMagpie explain. What makes an evil woman. We hear from Professor of History at Birkbeck and Rhetoric Professor at Gresham College talks about her interest in evil women. Festive Drinks. Sandra Lawrence from The Cocktail Lovers magazine talks about classic cocktails. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Dianne McGregor

Festive drinks, Post-partum psychosis, Outliving your mum. Dec 04, 2020

Sandrae Lawrence from the Cocktail Lovers Magazine stirs up some Christmas spirit in the Woman's Hour studio with a selection of festive drinks ideas. She'll be preparing traditional Snowballs and telling us about wassails to warm your guests with whilst entertaining outdoors. As Hollyoaks tackles the issue of post partum psychosis we hear from Hannah Bissett from Action on Post-partum Psychosis and Dr Ayesha Rahim, who's a perinatal psychiatrist at Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust and we hear Titania's story about Outliving her mum. Presented by Jane Garvey Produced by Lisa Jenkinson

Is Joint Enterprise being used unjustly? A career in virology. A true crime quest. My life in shoes Dec 03, 2020

Is the continued use of Joint Enterprise, where an individual can be jointly convicted of the crime of another, unjust? Next week, 800,000 doses of the first coronavirus vaccine will be available. It seems female scientists scientists have been front and centre of the work. According to The Royal College of Pathologists nearly half of their members who specialise in virology are women. We hear from Dr Katrina Pollock from Imperial College, London and Professor Trudie Lang from University of Oxford Both institutions are leaders in virology and work closely together. They tell us about working in the field and what it's like as a career for a woman. Plus we hear from trainee Lydia Gale. Why did Becky Cooper spend a decade investigating the death, 50 years ago, of Harvard student Jane Britton? Plus we continue in our series of my life in shoes: Ciara Jones emailed to tell us about the shoes that have given her hope. From her mum’s high heels when she was stuck in flat black leather shoes after hip treatment, to the bubblegum pink stilettoes she’s looking forward to wearing after covid, Ciara shares her stories with us today. Presenter Krupa Padhy Producer Beverley Purcell Guest; Becky Clarke Guest; Clare Warren Guest; Emma Torr Guest; Becky Cooper Guest; Professor Trudie Lang Guest; Dr Katrina Pollock Guest; Ciara Jones Guest; Lydia Gale

Sparking a love of nature; the Keira Bell judgement; Evil women; US female voters Dec 02, 2020

The Woman’s Hour Power List 2020: Our Planet is celebrating the women making a significant contribution to the environment. Today, we’re speaking to two women who strive to spark a lifelong love of nature in others. Beccy Speight is the CEO of the RSPB, the UK’s largest conservation charity and Miranda Lowe is a curator at the Natural History Museum in London. The High Court has ruled that children under 16 with gender dysphoria are ‘unlikely’ to be able to give informed consent to undergo treatment with puberty-blocking drugs. The case had been brought against Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust. Health Correspondent for BBC Newsnight Deborah Cohen joins Krupa to explain the judgment and its potential implications for clinical practice. In the recent US election an estimated 90% of black women voters supported President-elect Joe Biden. And while college-educated white women further cemented their shift to Democrat support, white women overall continued to vote for President Donald Trump. We speak to Professor of Political Science, Wendy Smooth from Ohio State University about what created this divide, the significance of the women’s vote and the overall pattern of women’s political choice. What makes an ‘evil woman’? From Eve and her original evil, to the true horrors of Myra Hindley, Professor Joanna Bourke’s new series of Gresham College lectures explore some of the women described as such – and how the bar for evil has changed over time.

Women's innovation in tech; Working in retail; Valerie's Life in Shoes Dec 01, 2020

Two of this year’s TechWomen100 Award winners join Jane to discuss getting more women and girls into the tech industries, including via a new app. June Angelides, an investor, speaker and mentor who founded Mums in Tech has won the Editor’s Choice award. Rav Bumbra gets the Champion award for her work recruiting women to work in tech fields and mentoring schoolgirls. With non-essential retail due to open again tomorrow, we discuss the situation facing shop workers - many of whom are women - working in the UK's high street stores. Hastings shopkeeper Pratibha Paleja talks about the difficulties of dealing with frustrated customers and reports of shop workers being assaulted. Retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth and Joanne Cairns, deputy head of research at the Union of Shop Distributive & Allied Workers discuss the wider issues facing women working in the sector, including the risk to jobs from the predicted collapse of the Arcadia group, and the reality of asking people to restrain their shopping in the run-up to Christmas. Listener Valerie tells the story of her adventurous life through a pair of shoes and two pairs of boots. She wore the boots while becoming the first British woman to summit Mount Manaslu, the trek shoes she bought for an Everest marathon and the fur-lined boots she wears when the temperature gets really low. How does it feel to reach the age your Mum was when she died? Jo Morris talks to four women who feel a clock ticking. Their stories are all different but they have one thing in common – none of them have felt able to talk about this before. They didn’t want to worry their loved ones or vocalise these dark thoughts. Titania is 44, her Mum died at 54 and her Gran at 64 and she feels she sees a pattern. Presenter - Jane Garvey Producer - Anna Lacey

Women and underpaid state pensions, Women's emotional labour at Christmas, Female footballers and dementia Nov 30, 2020

It was found that thousands of married women could have been receiving underpaid state pensions. The Department of Work and Pensions has since been investigating its records and making payments. The former pensions Minister Steve Webb, who first highlighted the issue, believes that many more women, such as divorced and widowed women could be effected, and that the DWP could be looking at a bill in excess of £100 million. We speak to Steve Webb and to financial expert Jasmine Birtles about pension planning, and the impact coronavirus could have on future pensions. The Sage Christmas document says that 'women carry the burden of creating and maintaining family traditions and activities at Christmas'. “Messaging should be supportive of women adapting traditions and encouraging those around them to share the burden and to be supportive of any alterations to adapt for Covid-19 restrictions.” We speak to the behavioural scientist Dr Pragya Agarwal. We catch up with Pip Hare who is currently competing in the Vendee Globe solo round the world sailing race. It is considered to be one of the toughest sporting competitions: 24,000 miles as the crow flies, no help, no stops and no turning back. Are women footballers more at risk of dementia than men? Dr Michael Grey is a neuroscientist who is running a project at the UEA to monitor ex-footballers for early signs of dementia. He’s looking for more women to take part. He joins Jane along with footballer and former Crystal Palace player Freya Holdaway. The Duchess of Cambridge’s new report on children’s early years has revealed the struggle many parents face – from feeling lonely and struggling to find time for themselves, to feeling judged by other parents. How have those problems persisted through the pandemic? Ipsos Mori’s Kelly Beaver and Dr Guddi Singh join us to discuss the report and give some practical advice. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Bonus podcast: The Conversation 100 Women Nov 29, 2020

Celebrating the BBC 100 Women list 2020 Kim Chakanetsa and a panel of inspirational and influential women discuss whether some changes made because of Covid-19 restrictions could be seen as positive. They answer questions about bringing communities together, supporting lonely people and increasing flexibility for more inclusive employment. Shani Dhanda is an award-winning disability specialist and social entrepreneur from the UK. She founded the Asian Woman Festival and Asian Disability Network. The pandemic has proved that flexible and home working is viable, and she wants to make sure our new online solutions are here to stay so that the world remains accessible to us all. Karen Dolva has been seeking technological solutions to involuntary loneliness since 2015. A co-founder of No Isolation based in Norway, she’s helped develop a telepresence robot for children with long-term illness, and KOMP, a one-button screen for seniors. With reports from around the world of people feeling increasingly isolated because of Covid restrictions – should tech like this be used more widely? Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, became Mayor of Freetown, Sierra Leone in 2018 with an inclusive vision of the city's renewal and a three-year plan to "Transform Freetown" and tackle environmental degradation and facilitating the creation of jobs in the tourism sector. #FreetownTheTreeTown was launched this January and already over 450,000 seedlings have been to address flooding, soil erosion and water shortages faced by the city. She says we can turn frustration and dissatisfaction into positive change. What can we learn from such an approach post-Covid? Aditi Mittal is India’s best known female stand-up comedian, who is finding new ways to perform safely and online. She also hosts the Women in Labour podcast, and hopes that the increased time at home for many male workers in India has shone a light on the amount of time required to run a household, something that has always been a big barrier to the female workforce. Produced by Jane Thurlow and Caitlin Sneddon Image from left: Aditi Mittal (credit Nanak Bhatia), Shani Dhanda (courtesy Shani Dhanda), Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr (credit TJ Bade) Karen Dolva (credit No Isolation)

Weekend Woman's Hour - Ozlem Cekic, The Crown, Lockdown Bickering Nov 28, 2020

Ozlem Cekic, one of the first Muslim women with an immigrant background to enter Danish parliament, tells us why she decided to meet up with the people who sent her racist emails. We discuss whether a new women's centre at the site of the former Holloway Women's Prison will get the go ahead. We hear from Lucy who's with Reclaim Holloway and also from the last woman to leave the prison four years ago. The lastest series of the drama The Crown has introduced a new generation to Princess Diana as well as her depression and her bulimia. We hear from the former BBC Royal Correspondent, Jennie Bond, and from Ali Pantony of Glamour Magazine. The chef and writer, Marie Mitchell, tells us about her love of Caribbean food and culture and how to cook the perfect Roti. And we discuss bickering with Penny Mansfield from the relationships charity One Plus One. She tells us why she thinks the pandemic has bought out the bickerer in many of us. One of our listeners, Deborah, tells us what starts off a bickering argument with her partner. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhan Tighe

The Crown, Diana and a New Generation Nov 27, 2020

The fourth series of The Crown currently airing on Netflix lays bare the ups and downs of the royal marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer . The drama has introduced a new generation to the Princess, her depression and struggles with the eating disorder bulimia. Jane Garvey talks to the veteran royal watcher Jennie Bond and also to Ali Pantony from Glamour magazine who has herself suffered from bulimia and who says the issues faced by Diana three decades ago have resonated strongly with young people today. Next week the government begins a scheme to get more than a million university students back home safely to their families in time for Christmas. This includes on-campus mass testing using self test kits which give results in 30 minutes, cutting out the need to use a laboratory . Jane Garvey talks to the Universities Minister Michelle Donelan about this and other issues-from the rise in students experiencing mental health problems to the challenges of online tuition. How does it feel to reach the age your Mum was when she died? In a new series we talk to four women who feel a clock ticking. Their stories are all different but they have one thing in common – none of them have felt able to talk about this before. They didn’t want to worry their loved ones or vocalise these dark thoughts. They describe their fears as well as the joy of ordinary life and the freedom that comes from realising that you are not your mother. First, we’ll be hearing from Rachel whose Mum died shortly after turning 40. ‘The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside’ is the debut novel of Jessica Ryn. Published yesterday, Jessica, having only recently finished her MA in Creative Writing, joins Jane to talk about the inspiration for her setting her first book in a hostel for the homeless in Dover. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Jennie Bond Interviewed Guest: Ali Pantony Interviewed Guest: Michelle Donelan Interviewed Guest: Jessica Ryn

Chef Marie Mitchell. NUS President Larissa Kennedy. The real Audrey Hepburn. Power List: Our Planet Nov 26, 2020

The Island Social Club was created to fill the void of what was once London’s thriving Caribbean social scene. Chef, writer and co-founder Marie Mitchell explores Caribbean food and culture while creating a space for second and third generation British people of Caribbean descent to connect with their heritage. Marie talks abut food and identity and shows us how to Cook the Perfect Roti, one of the cornerstones of Caribbean cuisine. After a difficult first term of online tuition, lockdowns and social distancing it’s been a University experience like no other for young people.. The Government has issued guidelines about how they plan to get students home in time for Christmas which include a mass testing programme on campuses to reduce risk of infection. NUS President Larissa Kennedy joins Nicola to discuss university life in the time of Covid and the testing strategy. Audrey Hepburn was a legendary star of Hollywood’s Golden Age – infamous for her acting, as well as her style. But what do we know about the real woman behind the image? We hear from Helena Coan the director of a new film Audrey which features never before seen footage of her life, and Audrey’s granddaughter Emma Ferrer. The Woman’s Hour Power List: Our Planet has highlighted the breadth of work that goes into helping the environment, and today we feature two women in the finance sector. Caroline Mason is no. 16 on the List and is the CEO of the Esmée Fairbain Foundation, which finances lots of environmental and social projects. Catherine Howarth is no.21 and is the CEO of ShareAction, which persuades investors to think more sustainably. Presenter Nicola Beckford Producer Beverley Purcell

Stella Gibbons, HMP Holloway, Sandra Horley Nov 25, 2020

Stella Gibbons' first novel was Cold Comfort Farm. First published in 1932, it became an instant bestseller and made fun of country life. Another one of her novels called My American will be serialized on BBC Radio 4 next week. The writer Lynne Truss discusses Stella's life and work. Four years ago the largest women's prison in Western Europe, HMP Holloway in London, was closed. The building has huge historic significance. partly because of its links to the suffragettes, especially the Pankhurst sisters. But what will happen to the site now that the prison has gone? Refuge is the UK's largest domestic violence service. It has a network of refuges and community-based support, as well as a 24-hour helpline. Every year it supports 80,000 women and children. Sandra Horley has been Refuge’s Chief Executive for over 40 years. She comes onto Woman's Hour to talk about her time in charge.

Syria's disappeared, The orgasm cult, Bickering, Taxidermy Nov 24, 2020

Wafa Mustafa is a Syrian refugee currently living in Berlin. Her father was arrested in Syria on July 2nd 2013 and has not been heard from since. Wafa is just one of many Syrian women, who are part of Families for Freedom, a woman-led movement searching for family members who were detained or 'disappeared' by the Syrian regime, ISIS and other armed groups during Syria's brutal civil war. She joins Jane to explain why she has been sitting outside a court in Koblenz with over 60 framed photographs. They are joined by the BBC's Middle East correspondent Quentin Sommerville. A new BBC podcast, The Orgasm Cult, looks into a wellness company called One Taste and it’s co-founder, Nicole Daedone, who believed that orgasm would one day sit alongside yoga and meditation as the self-care practice for the modern empowered woman. One Taste taught orgasmic meditation or Om-ing as it’s called by those in the know. Reporter Nastaran Tavakoli-Far talks to Jane. Do you and your other half bicker? Has lockdown brought out the bickerer in you? Or maybe you see it in others, especially couples who’ve been together for a long time. We speak to Penny Mansfield, expert on relationships from One Plus One and Deborah and Gary Marshall. Elle Kaye specialises in bird taxidermy. Aged 27, she is one of a growing number of young women who have made taxidermy their trade. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Spending review 2020; Maureen Lipman’s shoes; Özlem Cekic Nov 23, 2020

Women have been worst hit in financial and economic terms by the pandemic so the spending review coming up this week is of particular interest this year. It’s when the chancellor sets out his big picture for the next three or four years in terms of what each government department will have to spend. This time round though Rishi Sunak will be laying out his plan for just one year because of the uncertainties facing the UK. Paul Johnson from the Institute for Fiscal Studies and Mary-Ann Stephenson from the Women’s Budget Group discuss the key areas to watch for which could impact women. My Life In Shoes. The actress Eve Pearce has written a poem about her main life events remembered through her footwear - from wellingtons to brogues and satin heels. The actress Maureen Lipman talks to Jane about their friendship, and her own favourite black suede courts which she wore to Buckingham Palace, plus the role that shoes play in helping her get into character. Özlem Cekic was one of the first women with a Muslim immigrant background to enter the Danish parliament. When she started receiving hate email from people who thought she should ‘go home’, she just deleted or ignored it. Then one day she decided to go and meet some of the senders. She was offered coffee and home-made cake at their houses, and talked with them for hours. So began a decade of trying to build bridges with people who hold extreme views. She tells Jane why she is convinced we should try to listen and understand them, and confront our own prejudices in the process. Özlem has written a book called Overcoming hate through dialogue. As part of our Power List coverage we’re talking to Marian Spain who’s in charge of Natural England. It launched The Nature Recovery Network this month. And Sarah Johnson who works in Lancashire, restoring peatland in her area. Peat is really important for absorbing carbon dioxide and helps combat climate change.

Woman’s Hour Power List, No 10 - Women behind the scenes, Moving house, Nadine Shah, Older women and long hair Nov 21, 2020

The Woman’s Hour Power List reveal celebrates women from across the UK who are making a significant contribution to the health and sustainability of our planet. Number 2 on the list is environmental lawyer Farhana Yamin. Boris Johnson’s government has been criticised for its lack of women at the top table. The dramatic departure of Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain from Downing Street has led to calls for a female led reset at Number 10. We hear from Katie Perrior, former advisor at number 10 and Anji Hunter who was Tony Blair’s “gatekeeper” and longest serving aide. The appeal of moving house. Jane Christmas has written a book about the 32 house moves she’s made in 66 years. Linda Hill has moved just once in 37 years of marriage. Singer songwriter Nadine Shah talks about her latest album Kitchen Sink which explores the themes of fertility, tradition & identity. Older women and long hair - the dos and don’ts of hair care as you age with fashion journalist Alyson Walsh and hair stylist Ashley Gaunt. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Paula McFarlane Editor: Dianne McGregor

Kate Humble, Impact of International Aid Cuts, Moving House, My Life in Shoes Nov 20, 2020

Number 23 on this year’s Woman’s Hour Power List is Kate Humble – whose TV career spans 30 years and includes all sorts of programmes covering nature, wildlife and farming. But how important is TV in helping people actually care about the planet? Jane talks to Kate about the best way to connect people with nature, the importance of inspiring the next generation, and the problem she has with the word ‘environment’. Justine Greening was for Secretary of State for International Development for nearly four years under David Cameron, and Minister for Women and Equalities for Theresa May. She joins Jane to give her response to the suggested cuts to International Aid that are expected to be announced next Wednesday. What impact could that decision have on projects supporting some of the most vulnerable groups around the world – women and children? How many houses have you lived in? Does the idea of moving get you all excited, or does it bring you out in hives? Jane Christmas has written a book about the 32 house moves she’s made in 66 years. She joins Jane to discuss this, along with Linda Hill who’s moved just once in 37 years of marriage and has been in her present home for almost 34 years, and Carol who moved 16 times in 25 years, as her husband was in the military. My Life In Shoes. Listener Christina can trace her love of red shoes back to her childhood when she wasn’t allowed the unsuitable crimson shoes she desired. She’s been searching ever since. Presented by Jane Garvey Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Young women and environmental activism. Nadine Shah on her new album Kitchen Sink Nov 19, 2020

Young people are one of the key driving forces behind climate activism and fighting for the future of the planet. But what’s it like being on the front line? And how do young people want to change the way we think about environmental issues? Three of the women from this year’s Power List – Mya-Rose Craig, Holly Gillibrand and Mikaela Loach – talk about their thoughts and experiences. They’re also joined by another woman on the Power List, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Sophie Howe. She discusses the importance of challenging people in power to think about the way today’s decisions will affect future generations. Plus Jessica talks to Nadine Shah about her new album Kitchen Sink explores themes of fertility, tradition and identity all told through the stories of women at different stages of their lives. She discusses sexual and societal pressures on women and the importance of individual choice. Presenter Jessica Creighton Producer Beverley Purcell

Rosamund Kissi-Debrah, No.10 - Women Behind the Scenes, Crime writer Claire McGowan, Gender Politics. Nov 18, 2020

Rosamund Kissi-Debrah is number three on the Woman’s Hour Power List 2020: Our Planet. She is a tireless campaigner for cleaner air, following the tragic death of her daughter Ella from a series of severe asthma attacks. Since then she’s created powerful change from a grassroots level, influencing the Mayor of London and working with the World Health Organisation. She joins Jessica to speak about her work and her hopes for making a difference. Boris Johnson’s government has been criticised for its lack of women at the top table and for being run by a “toxic boys club” behind the scenes. The dramatic departure of Dominic Cummings and Lee Cain from Downing Street has led to calls for a female led reset at Number 10: The Prime Minister’s fiancée Carrie Symonds is a former conservative party strategist, the head of the No10 Policy Unit is Munira Mirza who is described as the PM’s “nonsense detector” and his new Press Chief is Allegra Stratton. Jessica Creighton talks about the power shift to Katie Perrior who was Chief of Staff for Theresa May and to Anji Hunter who was Tony Blair’s “gatekeeper” and longest serving aide. Crime writer Claire McGowan talks to Jessica about her new novel The Push, a murder mystery set in an antenatal group, where all the parents-to-be are keeping secrets. If you don’t feel you know enough about gender politics, a new – and free – course is now available online. It covers gender equality, gender history and stereotypes. It’s been developed by the University of Glasgow. New research indicates that nearly 9 million people in Britain don’t really understand what toxic masculinity is and nearly 8 million people said they didn’t know enough about LGBTQ rights. Jessica discusses the issues with Dr. Tanya Cheadle, Lecturer in Gender History at The University of Glasgow and Jordan Stephens, who is a mental health campaigner and one half of Rizzle Kicks. Presenter: Jessica Creighton Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Woman's Hour Power List: Farhana Yamin, Jo Whitfield CEO Co-op Food, Chila Kumari Burman Nov 17, 2020

The idea of reaching net-zero emissions is mentioned so often, it’s easy to forget that someone came up with it. That someone is Farhana Yamin – a world-class environmental lawyer, expert in international climate negotiations and number 2 on this year’s Woman’s Hour Power List. Jane Garvey talks to Farhana about her fascinating career. She’s the first woman to run a leading British grocery retailer, we speak to Jo Whitfield, who is CEO of Co-Op Food. She joins Jane to talk about how food retailers have responded to the pandemic, the safety of her workers, her rise to the top and her women’s network Grocery Girls. Chila Kumari Singh Burman has created a new installation for Tate Britain’s annual Winter Commission, unveiled in time for Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Chila is celebrated for her interdisciplinary practice which spans printmaking, painting, installation and film. In her work she draws on her Punjabi heritage, her Liverpudlian childhood – her father owned an ice cream van - and her feminist perspectives. She describes her work as “high art meeting popular culture”. Actress Jane Seymour, who celebrates her seventieth next year, recently wrote that she refused to cut her trade mark long hair going against the received wisdom that you need to think about shorter styles as you age. Jane Garvey talks about the dos and don’ts of hair care as you get older with Alyson Walsh a fashion journalist who writes for The Telegraph and runs her own blog site That’s Not My Age and also to the hair stylist Ashley Gaunt who works at Stephen Carey Hair in Mayfair, London. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Woman's Hour Power List: Our Planet - The Big Reveal Nov 16, 2020

Today Jane Garvey reveals the 30 names on this year's Woman’s Hour Power List, which celebrates women from across the UK that are making a significant contribution to the health and sustainability of our planet. Jane talks to some of the women on this year's list and hears how the judges – Lucy Siegle, Zunaira Malik, Emma Howard Boyd, Flo Headlam and Prof Alice Larkin – managed to take over 1000 listener emails and whittle it down to our final Power List of 30. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Anna Lacey Assistant Producer: Rosie Stopher Judge: Lucy Siegle Judge: Alice Larkin Judge: Zunaira Malik Judge: Flo Headlam Judge: Emma Howard Boyd

Weekend Woman's Hour: Anne-Marie, Princess Diana, The forgotten history of women slaves Nov 14, 2020

The popstar Anne-Marie is famous for songs such as 2002, Ciao adios & Clean Bandit’s Rockabye. She talks to us about lockdown and her new documentary on You Tube ‘How to Be Anne Marie. We discuss the sculpture by Maggi Hambling celebrating the ‘mother of feminism’ Mary Wollstonecraft, which went on display on Newington Green, Islington in London on Tuesday. Reporter Melanie Abbott is in Newington Green where she’s been talking to visitors to the sculpture, and art historian and critic Ruth Millington. Princess Diana’s best friend Rosa Monckton gives us her thoughts on the new ITV documentary The Diana Interview: Revenge of a Princess. The author and academic Stella Dadzie talks about her new book, A Kick in the Belly: Women, Slavery & Resistance, she reveals the largely untold stories of women of African descent who, caught up in the horrors of over 400 years of slavery, were transported across the Atlantic to the sugar plantations of Jamaica and beyond. Betty Cook talks about her friendship with Anne Scargill who she met at the beginning of the miners' strike in 1984. She tells us why she helped create the Women Against Pit Closures movement with Anne and discusses their book Anne and Betty: United by the Struggle. with Ian Clayton who helped gather the material for it. Presented by: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Beverley Purcell

Remembering the victims of Peter Sutcliffe; Women in the wedding industry; Kate Malone Nov 13, 2020

The serial killer Peter Sutcliffe has died of Covid 19. He was convicted of the murders of 13 women, and the attempted murder of 7 others, in Yorkshire and the north-west of England between 1975 and 1980. Jane speaks to Joan Smith is a feminist writer and campaigner, and author of Misogynies – she was a reporter in the North of England at the time. Louise Watiss is a criminologist at Teeside University and Carol Anne Lee is the author of Somebody’s Mother Somebody’s Daughter. We also hear from Richard McCann whose mother Wilma was the first woman killed by Peter Sutcliffe, and Mo Lea who 40 years ago was an art student In Leeds when she was attacked. Sutcliffe was never convicted of the assault on Mo. During the current English lockdown, only ‘deathbed’ marriages and civil partnerships are possible, and there can be no parties. In the other nations of the UK, small ceremonies are being allowed, and in some cases very limited receptions. Overall this year an estimated 200,000 weddings have been cancelled due to the restrictions imposed on social gatherings to try and limit the spread of Covid-19. So what impact is all this having on the hundreds of thousands of women who work in the wedding industry? Jane speaks to Jessie Westwood, founder of the campaign What About Weddings and owner of wedding & event production company Studio Sorores, and to Jemma Palmer who runs bridal boutique Halo & Wren. Kate Malone is one of the UK’s leading potters and ceramicists. She tells Jane about the therapeutic benefits of working with clay.

Otegha Uwagba, Nigella Lawson, Anne-Marie Nov 12, 2020

Otegha Uwagha is a writer & commentator. Today she discusses her new essay, Whites: On Race and Other Falsehoods. She discusses, what she sees as, the ‘colossal burden’ of co-existing with white people when you are not white. A Mary Wollstonecraft inspired sculpture, created by Maggi Hambling, is causing a stir. Mary Wollstonecraft wrote the famous "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman". But there's controversy over the sculpture which has a small naked female figure at the top of it, and some are wondering whether that's appropriate to remember Mary. Our reporter Melanie Abbott reports from the scene and talks to passers-by, plus we have art historian Ruth Millington who gives her reaction to the piece. Nigella Lawson’s new book is Cook, Eat, Repeat. It's about the pleasure of cooking, feeding and eating. It was mainly written during lockdown. Nigella joins Jane to discuss her love of cooking and food and describes how to Cook the Perfect Fish Finger Bhorta, which was inspired by the political journalist Ash Sarkar. Anne-Marie has been nominated for 9 Brit awards. She’s famous for songs such as Ciao Adios & Rockabye. Her debut album Speak Your Mind was the biggest selling debut artist of 2018. She’s got a new documentary out called ‘How to Be Anne Marie. She's also a karate champion. She joins Jane to discuss her music, life lessons and life in lockdown.

Princess Diana. High Court challenge over late Down's syndrome terminations. Religion and climate change activism Nov 11, 2020

Twenty five years ago Martin Bashir's Panorama interview with Diana Princess of Wales made headlines around the world with quotes like “ there were were three of us in this marriage so it was a bit crowded” Now questions are being asked about how the interview with her was secured , which the BBC are investigating. We hear from Rosa Monckton one of Diana’s best friends Under the current Abortion laws it is legal to terminate a pregnancy up to birth if Down's syndrome is detected. This doesn’t happen very often but Heidi Crowter, a 25-year-old woman from Coventry who has Down’s syndrome, and Máire Lea-Wilson from London, whose 18-month-old son Aidan has Down’s syndrome, are going to the High Court to try to change it. They want the limit reduced for all non-fatal disabilities including Down’s Syndrome , cleft palate and club foot in line with the normal 24-week limit. Anita Rani talks to them and to Clare Murphy from the British Pregnancy Advisory Service. Woman's Hour Power List 2020 Our Planet; What are the major world religions doing to combat the climate crisis? What impact can personal faith have on inspiring climate change activism? We discuss with Maria Zafar, Campaigns Coordinator at Islamic Relief UK; and Ruth Valerio, a theologian, environmentalist and Global Advocacy Director at Christian charity Tearfund Plus the author Kate Mascarenhas on her passion for dolls the theme for her new novel The Thief on The Winged Horse which is set in a doll workshop where generations of the Kendricks family have made dolls with magic powers. Presenter Anita Rani Producer Beverley Purcell

Critical care nurses' mental health; Allotments; Women of the Miners’ Strike; Mother and son referees Nov 10, 2020

Covid 19 has been difficult for everyone but one group that’s been at the front line of fighting the pandemic is critical care nurses. There are reports of record sickness levels partly due to stress and mental health issues at the same time as new plans for how people are nursed in intensive care are introduced. Anita Rani talks to Nicki Credland who chairs the British Association of Critical Care Nurses. A new study reveals women with allotment plots now outnumber men for the first time. A recent study by Dr Tilly Collins and Ellen Fletcher of Imperial College London, found that in London almost two thirds of plots – 64% - are now occupied by women. The National Allotment Society estimates that half of holders nationally are now women - compared to just two percent in 1973. Dr Tilly Collins and allotment holders Irene O’Malley and Sonia Hyman, join Anita to discuss their appeal and why traditional allotments have become a very different kind of space where women want to relax and be self-sufficient. Anne Scargill and Betty Cook met at the beginning of the miners' strike in 1984. Betty was a proud miner's daughter, wife and mother, who was determined to support her family and community. Anne happened to be married to Arthur Scargill, the president of the National Union of Miners. She too was steeped in the history of coalfield culture. Together they helped to create the Women Against Pit Closures movement. They have just published a book called Anne and Betty: United by the Struggle. Betty joins Anita to talk about her memories of that time and the impact it had on women’s lives, with Ian Clayton who helped gather the material for the book. Patsy Andrews has been a football referee for the last 16 years, one of 2146 women across all levels of the game, compared to 29,244 men at the end of the 2019/20 season. Her son, Akil Howson, has followed in his mum's footsteps and is now officiating in the English Football League Championship. They join Anita to discuss the inspiration for their continued involvement in football. Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Sarah Crawley

USA presidential elections, Down's syndrome, The forgotten history of women slaves, Young inventor Nov 09, 2020

The US Presidential election results with Dr. Jeanne Morefield, Senior Lecturer in political theory at the University of Birmingham, and Fellow at the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Washington, DC. A current storyline in Emmerdale is about a couple who decide to have a termination when their baby’s diagnosed with Down Syndrome. It’s a difficult decision for anyone, but some campaigners say expectant parents are routinely given outdated advice and encouraged to have a termination. Nicola Enoch who set up the support website Positive About Downs talks about her experiences and we hear from Jane Fisher who is the Director of ARC - Antenatal Results and Choices. Stella Dadzie is a teacher, writer, artist and education activist. In her new book, A Kick in the Belly: Women, Slavery & Resistance, she reveals the largely untold stories of women of African descent who, caught up in the horrors of over 400 years of slavery, were transported across the Atlantic to the sugar plantations of Jamaica and beyond. Women, who Stella reveals, were central to slave rebellions and played a vital role in developing a culture of slave resistance and liberation across the Caribbean. Betty Seabrook is the UK winner in the most recent Ideas4Ears competition for children, organised by hearing implant makers MED-EL. Her ingenious invention is a special custom helmet that Cochlear Implant users can wear with their audio processor while riding a bike. Betty got the inspiration from her family bike rides and her father Tom who couldn’t wear a helmet without taking his processor off - which could be more dangerous. Betty and Tom join Jane.. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Supporting a child with depression, Flexible working, Maggie O'Farrell, Paint recycling, Carers and the pandemic. Nov 07, 2020

Liz Brookes looks after her husband Mike, who has had vascular dementia and Chris Black cares for his wife, Helen, who has Picks disease, or Frontotemporal dementia. How have they coped during the pandemic? We also hear from Emily Holzhausen, Director of Policy and Public Affairs from Carers UK. Has the Covid crisis helped to usher in a future of flexible working? A new report from the campaign Flex Appeal says while that forced remote working during a pandemic is not the same as flexible working, there are lessons that can be learned from lockdown. Anna Whitehouse aka Mother Pukka who co-founded Flex Appeal, and Louise Deverell-Smith who runs Daisy Chain, an online platform that matches flexible employers with flexible job-seekers discuss. As part of our new series on life and shoes, we speak to Carmen about her espadrilles her mother danced in decades ago. Josh suffered his first major depressive episode just before he was due to take his A levels. At university his mental health deteriorated further. Josh and his mum Mandy have written a book 'The Boy Between'. They tell us about their experiences – in Josh’s case, learning to live with depression, and in Mandy’s case how best to support and help someone you love who suffers with depression. Cat Hyde is one of the founders of Seagulls, a project which takes leftover paint and repurposes it into new paint. They take volunteers such as Ash, a young woman who now works at their paint shop, who says that working at Seagulls was vital in her regaining her confidence. Maggie O’Farrell’s first picture book for children, 'Where Snow Angels Go By' is the story of a brave little girl who is visited by her snow angel in her time of need. The idea for the book grew out of a story Maggie told her own sick child in the back of an ambulance. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Carers and the pandemic, Blind pregnancy test, Suffrage Science Award Nov 06, 2020

In April we spoke to Liz Brookes who looks after her husband Mike, who has had vascular dementia and to Chris Black who cares for his wife, Helen, who has Picks disease, or Frontal Temperal dementia. How they are getting on six months later? Emily Holzhausen, Director of Policy and Public Affairs from Carers UK joins them. For blind or partially sighted women it is impossible to read visual results of a standard pregnancy test. The Royal National Institute for the Blind has designed a prototype for a tactile test which means the user can maintain their independence and privacy. Jane Garvey talks to the Chair of the RNIB Ellie Southwood. Leila and Sahand were both married to other people when they fell in love and had a child together. Adultery is a crime in Iran, fearing for their lives they fled their homeland for a safe life elsewhere. We speak to Leila and to the director Eva Mulvad who has made a documentary film ‘Love Child’ about their life over the last seven years. Women still make up only 24% of those working in core science, technology, engineering and mathematics occupations in the UK, and recent data has revealed that women make up just 13% of students studying computer science in the UK. There is a similar lack of women studying mathematics courses. The Suffrage Science awards scheme hopes to change this. Jane is joined by science communicator Dr. Kat Arney and Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

What a second lockdown means for pregnant women, The future of flexible working, The history of the biscuit, Outdoor learning Nov 05, 2020

We’ve just started a second lockdown in England – with other parts of the United Kingdom also going through variations of the same. But what if you’re pregnant? What’s going through your mind and what are you concerned about? As the pandemic’s gone on, we’ve heard about women being on their own for scans, deliveries and sadly, miscarriages too. And an enquiry has just started into a rise in stillbirths over the last Lockdown. Chloe discusses the issues with Bertie Harlev-Lam, Executive Director for Professional Leadership at the RCM ,also a working midwife, and Jo Mountfield, Vice President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in Southampton, and a consultant obstetrician at University Southampton Hospital. Has the Covid crisis helped to usher in a future of flexible working? A new report from the campaign Flex Appeal says while that forced remote working during a pandemic is not the same as flexible working, there are lessons that can be learned from lockdown. They have surveyed more than a thousand employers about how their work has changed since March, and which aspects their employees are keen to keep longer-term. Chloe is joined by Anna Whitehouse aka Mother Pukka who co-founded Flex Appeal, and Louise Deverell-Smith who runs Daisy Chain, an online platform that matches flexible employers with flexible job-seekers. How did the humble biscuit become so embedded in our culture? Lizzie Collingham’s book The Biscuit: The History of a Very British Indulgence explains how it began as the foodstuff of explorers, then, sweetened, found its way into the recipe books of ladies of the manor and finally becoming our customary snack with a cup of tea. Chloe talks to Lizzie about the stories of women involved in biscuit production through the ages and asks her the all-important question: to dunk or not to dunk? What is a forest school and what are the benefits and challenges of outdoor learning? Can it re-engage children after the broken learning of the pandemic? Chloe discusses the issues with Sara Collins, Deputy Chair of the Forest School Association and founder of the Nature Premium campaign, which is calling for ring-fenced funding for schools to provide nature-based learning. She’s joined by Dr Rowena Passy, Senior Research Fellow at the University of Plymouth’s Institute for Education. Presented by Chloe Tilley Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Author Maggie O’Farrell. US Election result. How to build your confidence. Nov 04, 2020

Maggie O’Farrell’s first picture book for children is the story of a brave little girl who is visited by her snow angel in her time of need. The idea for the book grew out of a story Maggie told her own sick child in the back of an ambulance. Why are reassuring tales so crucial for children and adults in difficult times? This US election has been described as one of the most divisive US presidential elections in decades, pitting incumbent Republican Donald Trump against his Democratic challenger Joe Biden. We reflect on the results with USA Today columnist and CNN political & legal pundit, Sophia Nelson and Bronwen Maddox, Director of Institute for Government, previously foreign and US editor for the Times. How did North American women vote this time and with more women than ever standing for election, who are the winners and losers? How do you build your confidence when you’re at rock bottom? Whether you’ve had an illness, your partner has left you or you’re returning to work after having a baby, your sense of identity can suffer. Chloe Tilley is joined by confidence coach Jo Emerson and Frances Monaghan of Wise Women to explain how you can overcome low self-esteem. Presenter Chloe Tilley Producer Beverley Purcell Photo Credit; Murdo MacLeod

US Election, Sex work, Johnny Depp Nov 03, 2020

America goes to the polls today. It's predicted the women's vote will be key, particularly the suburban woman who came out for Trump in 2016 but 4 years on has changed her mind. We review the polls ahead of what is expected to be the biggest turn out in years. Johnny Depp has lost his libel case against the Sun newspaper over an article that called him a "wife beater". We talk to a Women's Rights organisation and look at the career implications for the 57 year old film star and his 34 year old ex wife Amber Heard. One group of self employed people we’ve not heard much about during the pandemic is sex workers. The coronavirus has spelt economic disaster for an industry which requires social contact and many are turning to online platforms like OnlyFans which allows them to sell photos and videos with a monthly subscription. Jane will be talking to Laura Watson from the Collective of English Prostitutes and the feminist writer Julie Bindel. And in our new series on life and shoes, we speak to Carmen about her espadrilles her mother danced in decades ago and her own tango shoes Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Henrietta Harrison

Jane McDonald, HRT, Amanda Prowse and Josiah Hartley, Paint recycling Nov 02, 2020

We may not be doing much holiday cruising in the pandemic but Jane McDonald known as ‘Queen of Cruise’ has a new album out ‘Cruising with Jane McDonald Vol 2’ featuring many well-known songs, all performed on her popular TV series of the same name. It’s been more than 20 years since she found fame as the stand out character from the BBC’s docusoap The Cruise - she joins Jane to talk performing, cruising, holidays and life out of the water. A new study, led by the Universities of Nottingham and Oxford, provides a more detailed picture on which women are at increased risk of breast cancer when using different HRT treatments. Dr Yana Vinogradova from the University of Nottingham, a lead investigator on the study, joins Jane to discuss the results. Shortly before Josiah was due to take A levels, he suffered his first major depressive episode. At the time neither he or his family had a clue what was happening. Nonetheless he scraped through his exams and in the autumn went to university as planned. At university his mental health deteriorated further, to the point that he planned his own death. Josh and his mum Mandy join Jane to talk about their experiences – in Josh’s case, learning to live with depression, and in Mandy’s how best to support and help someone you love who suffers with depression. During lockdown people have rediscovered a love for DIY, but what happens to all the leftover paint that doesn’t make it on to the wall? Paint is a hazardous material and if not properly disposed of it can be really harmful to the environment. Cat Hyde is one of the founders of Seagulls, a project which takes leftover paint and repurposes it into new paint. They take volunteers such as Ash, a young woman who now works at their paint shop, who says that working at Seagulls was vital in her regaining her confidence. Presented by Jane Garvey Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell.

Weekend Woman's Hour - Pottering, BAME Eating Disorders & Ditching Shame Oct 31, 2020

Pottering can be described as keeping busy without a plan or purpose. We hear from a self-confessed potterer. She's life coach Sarah Longfield, and we also have Anna McGovern, who's written a book called Pottering: A Cure for Modern Life. Statistics pulled together by NHS digital tell us that more people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities are being admitted to hospital because of eating disorders. We hear from a parent whose daughter was recently diagnosed with an eating disorder and from Professor Sandeep Ranote who's a psychiatrist and expert on eating disorders. Concern over the state of our planet is at a record high but who holds the real power? We hear from Karen Shackleton the Founder of the Ilkley Clean River Campaign and Emma Howard Boyd, Chair of The Environment Agency. How do we ditch our shame? Comedian Grace Campbell has written a book called Amazing Disgrace. It's about growing up feeling shameful about sex. It's also about mental health and being jealous. She joins the psychotherapist Gabrielle Rifkind to discuss how we can get rid of our shame. We hear from Emma and Ashlee who left care just before they were 18 and how they adapted to adult life. Mark Riddell, the National Implementation Advisor for Care Leavers, discusses what initiatives are working. And after going viral in a YouTube video, singer Charlotte Awbery tells about her journey from waitressing to being a guest on The Ellen Show. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhann Tighe

The British women taking part in the Vendee Globe solo round the world sailing race Oct 30, 2020

The Vendee Globe solo round the world sailing race is considered to be one of the toughest sporting competitions: 24,000 miles as the crow flies, no help, no stops and no turning back. This year out of 33 entries, six women are aiming to be on the start line on 8th November. We hear from three British women who are taking part. How do we ditch our shame? Comedian Grace Campbell has written a book, 'Amazing Disgrace', about growing up feeling shameful about sex, rejection, mental health and jealous tendencies. Grace and psychotherapist Gabrielle Rifkind join Jane to discuss how we can negotiate with ourselves, and work on getting rid of our shame. The femme fatale, the crazy cat lady, the girl next door – writer and performer Anneka Harry has come up with 50 tired tropes for women in her book, 'Lady Sidekick'. She’ll discuss how women have been pigeonholed for years into a handful of tired and basic characters, and how it’s now time for a change. In peace processes between 1992 and 2018, women represented only 3% of mediators and 12% of negotiators despite UN research showing that when women meaningfully participate in peace talks the resulting agreement is less likely to fail. We speak to women peace negotiators about what the challenges and benefits of being female can bring to their work and what support is needed to enable more women to be involved in peace negotiations. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Pip Hare Interviewed Guest: Miranda Merron Interviewed Guest: Samantha Davies Interviewed Guest: Grace Campbell Interviewed Guest: Gabrielle Rifkind Interviewed Guest: Anneka Harry Interviewed Guest: Sara Cook Interviewed Guest: Quhramaana Kakar Photographer: Vincent Curutchet

Author Victoria Hislop. Women's FA Cup. Diagnosing ovarian cancer. Singer Charlotte Awbery Oct 29, 2020

Author Victoria Hislop discusses her new novel ‘One August Night’, the long-anticipated sequel to her award-winning work, ‘The Island’. Why has she waited so long to revisit the hugely popular Cretan world and characters she created? It's the Women's FA Cup this weekend between Everton and Manchester City. Everton's Captain Danielle Turner and Jude Morris-King , volunteer Treasurer at the Man City Women Official Supporters Club talk to Paulette about what's it been like for the game under lock down and about the possible long-term impact of Covid-19 on the women’s game. Plus a study at the University of Cambridge, as part of the CanTest collaborative, has revealed that a blood test already available to GPs in the UK is more predictive of ovarian cancer than previously thought. We hear from Cancer Research UK’s head of early diagnosis Dr Jodie Moffat and science teacher Fiona who was diagnosed three years ago. And singer Charlotte Awbery tells us about her journey from waitressing to being a guest on the Ellen Show, and now creating her own music after an impromptu appearance in a YouTube video went viraL Presenter Paulette Edwards Producer Beverley Purcell

BAME Eating Disorders, Leaving Care, Cyberstalking Oct 28, 2020

According to NHS Digital more people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities are being admitted to hospital because of eating disorders. Experts say problems should have been picked up much earlier, rather than getting to the point of going to hospital. We speak to a mother whose daughter has just started treatment and Professor Sandeep Ranote, who's a psychiatrist and expert on eating disorders. Most young people leave home gradually over a number of years, but for teenagers who've grown up in care it can be very different. They've often started to live independently by the age of 18 or even before that, and they' are vulnerable to homelessness, unemployment, criminality, poor mental-health, and having children early on. We hear from Ashlee and Emma who've been in care and are now supported by the charity Break. We also hear from Mark Riddell MBE, who's National Implementation Advisor for Care Leavers. What do young care leavers need to help them move into adulthood and what things work for them? Stalking via the internet has escalated during lockdown. We hear from Katy Bourne, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex, who's been a victim of stalking herself. She talks about what it's been like for her and how perpetrators have found new ways to get to their victims online. We also hear from Suky Bhaker who heads the Suzy Lamplugh Trust. The charity runs the National Stalking Helpline. Does making bread help you switch off, especially when life is hard? Pauline Beaumont thinks so. She's a passionate baker, as well as a mother of six and a counsellor. She joins us to describe the calmness that baking brings to her and what it can teach us when life goes wrong.

The art of pottering, Sexual assault allegation against the Minister of Tolerance, Black women and poetry Oct 27, 2020

Pottering - what exactly is it? And why should you make time for it? To discuss this most British of pastimes, Jane is joined by self-confessed potterer – life coach Sarah Longfield and Anna McGovern, author of Pottering: A Cure for Modern Life, who defines pottering as keeping herself busy but without a plan or a purpose. Caitlin McNamara, a former Hay Festival curator, claims she was attacked in February of this year whilst working on the inaugural Middle East festival, by Sheikh Nahyan, the Minister of Tolerance in the United Arab Emirates cabinet and a member of Abu Dhabi’s ruling family. Now taking legal action in the UK, she joins Jane to explain why she has decided to make public the alleged assault. Baroness Helena Kennedy discusses the importance of this case. October is Black History Month. Reporter Olivia Cope spoke to two black female performance artists about their work and the influence this past year has had on their craft. Sophia Thakur has been holding free workshops over Zoom during lockdown, where hundreds of people from around the world have been in touch to work out how to express their feelings towards current events. Vilma Jackson's work explores the challenges she faces as a deaf, black woman in a hearing world. Ali Gordon is Vilma’s interpreter. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Abortion in Poland, Who Holds The Real Eco-Power Oct 26, 2020

Poland's top court has ruled that abortions in cases of foetal abnormality are unconstitutional. Poland's abortion laws were already among the strictest in Europe but the Constitutional Tribunal's ruling will mean an almost total ban. Once the decision comes into effect, terminations will only be allowed in cases of rape or incest, or if the mother's health is at risk. We hear from Justyna Wydrzynska, who runs a group in Poland which gives information about abortion to women you want it. Public concern over the state of our planet is at a record high. But for all the targets and strikes and banning plastic straws, change still feels pretty slow. So what's the problem? Three women, who are suggestions for this year’s Woman’s Hour Power List, plus one of our judges, talks about the kind of power that brings about change, their own quests to make a difference, and how they keep going. We have Karen Shackleton, Sian Sutherland, Hil Berg and Emma Howard.

Singing nuns, Long Covid, US presidential elections, Victoria Wood, Women and homelessness, Sister Bliss. Oct 24, 2020

The Poor Clares of Arundel are a community of nuns. They've just released an album'Light for the World' described as 'traditional plainchant with added beats'. We hear from Sisters Leo & Sisters Aelread. What impact is Long Covid having on women’s lives, and where are we with treatment and support? How will the female vote impact the USA presidential elections? Melissa Milewski, a lecturer in American History at the University of Sussex and Dr Michell Chresfield Lecturer in United States History, at the University of Birmingham discuss. The number of women sleeping rough and living in temporary accommodation has risen. Katya Adler hears from Dame Louise Casey who, as “Homelesssness Tsar”, championed the “Everyone In” policy which got rough sleepers off the street and into temporary accommodation during the height of the pandemic and Petra Salva, the head of the Rough Sleepers Unit at the charity St. Mungos. Sister Bliss is a DJ, songwriter and electronic artist. She is perhaps best-known as a member of the British electronic band Faithless. Victoria Wood, the Lancashire born comedian, writer, actor, stand up and singer died in 2016 having never written her own story. With access to letters, and interviews with friends and family Jasper Rees has written ‘Let’s Do it’ – The Authorized Biography of Victoria Wood. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Women and Long Covid Oct 23, 2020

New research out this week suggests that 1 in 45 people who get COVID-19 will continue to be unwell after three months, even if their initial infection was mild. And, under the age of 50, it does seem that women are more likely to develop Long Covid than men. People with Long Covid report on-going symptoms including fatigue, headache, shortness of breath, problems concentrating - ‘brain fog’ - and heart palpitations, which leave them unable to work, look after their families or even get off the sofa. Support groups and campaigns to get recognition and treatment for this new and debilitating illness have sprung up – most of them led by women. Their efforts are now beginning to bear fruit, with among other things a network of Long Covid clinics recently announced for some parts of the UK. What more needs to be done? Jane is joined by a panel of experts and campaigners to hear from some of you about how Long Covid has changed your lives since March, and to discuss the latest developments. She speaks to - Dr Nisreen Alwan, Associate Professor in Public Health, University of Southampton;Ondine Sherwood LongCovidSOS campaign co-founder; Dr Elizabeth Kendrick, GP & Medical Director of Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust who have been running a virtual Long Covid clinic since August and listeners – Emily, Gillian, Niluka and Morag. Presented by Jane Garvey. Producers: Sarah Crawley and Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

DJ songwriter Sister Bliss. Deaths from cocaine. Starting a business during lockdown. Oct 22, 2020

Sister Bliss is a DJ, songwriter and one of Britain’s most iconic and long lasting female electronic artists. She is perhaps best-known as a member of the British electronic band Faithless. She joins Katya to talk about her thirty year career, going from the underground club scene to sell-out arena shows. Female deaths due to cocaine have risen by 26.5% in 2019, according to the ONS. Why is the number of women dying from cocaine use increasing so rapidly? The UK economy has taken a real hit during the pandemic with figures suggesting women with small business start ups in areas like beauty, leisure and hospitality being worst affected. But the crisis also seems to have spurred on many others to take the plunge and go out on their own. And Dr Polly Russell the lead curator of a major new exhibition Unfinished Business: The Fight for Women’s Rights’ which opens at the British Library tells us how the work of contemporary feminist activists in the UK has its roots in the long and complex history of women’s rights. Presenter Katya Adler Producer Beverley Purcell GUEST; Ian Hamilton GUEST; Maxine Luckhurst GUEST; Molly Masters GUEST; Emma Jones GUEST; Dr Polly Russell

Women and homelessness, WTO, The Secret Garden, Unfinished Business: The Fight for Women's Rights Oct 21, 2020

The number of women sleeping rough has risen over the last decade and as the economic impact of Covid 19 takes hold, social policy advisers fear the situation could worsen. Female rough sleepers with their complex profile have it worse on the street, and in wider homelessness terms the number of lone women and women with children has soared in temporary accommodation. Katya Adler talks to Dame Louise Casey who, as “Homelesssness Tsar”, championed the “Everyone In” policy which got rough sleepers off the street and into temporary accommodation during the height of the pandemic and Petra Salva, the head of the Rough Sleepers Unit at the charity St. Mungos. A new film version of The Secret Garden is released on Friday. Written by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the book was first published in 1911 and is seen as a classic of English children’s literature. But the story of the author behind the book is far less well known and utterly fascinating. Katya Adler is joined by Ann Thwaite, whose biography of Frances Hodgson Burnett, Beyond the Secret Garden, first came out in 1974 but has been reissued this year, and Lucy Mangan, author of Bookworm, who has loved the novel since she was a little girl. The World Trade Organisation will shortly have a new leader and for the first time in its history it’s going to be a woman. There are two remaining candidates. They are Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala from Nigeria, and Yoo Myung-hee from South Korea. To discuss the candidates, Katya is joined by Allie Renison, Head of Trade and EU Policy at Institute of Directors. On Friday a major new exhibition opens at the British Library. ‘Unfinished Business: The Fight for Women’s Rights’ shows how the work of contemporary feminist activists in the UK has its roots in the long and complex history of women’s rights. Lead curator, Dr Polly Russell joins Katya Adler to discuss the multi-faceted exhibit where you can see everything from personal diaries, banners and protest fashion to subversive literature, film, music and art, women’s voices, stories and experiences. Presented by Katya Adler Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Singing Nuns, the US elections and women, the politicisation of Mumsnet? and what makes a good jobshare? Oct 20, 2020

Jane Garvey talks to Sisters Leo & Aelread from The Poor Clares of Arundel who've just released an album of traditional plainchant with added beats. What can we learn from them about living life in these times? It's a couple of weeks now til the Presidential elections in the States and to discuss what it will mean for women we talk to Melissa Milewski, a lecturer in American History at the University of Sussex and Dr Michell Chresfield Lecturer in United States History, at the University of Birmingham. Has Mumsnet the popular website for parents which has spawned thousands of discussion threads become too politicised? Sarah Pedersen, Professor of Communication and Media at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, talks about her new book on the subject and what makes a good job-share work? Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Tim Heffer Photograph: Chris O'Donovan

Victoria Wood, Frozen eggs, How to raise a kind child Oct 19, 2020

Victoria Wood, the Lancashire born comedian, writer, actor, stand up and singer found fame with shows such as Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV, Wood & Walters and Dinner Ladies. She died in 2016 having never written her own story. With access to letters, and interviews with friends and family Jasper Rees has written ‘Let’s Do it’ – The Authorized Biography of Victoria Wood. Mairead Campbell works at BBC Radio 1 and turned 30 last year. She made a documentary for BBC Radio Ulster about the fact that friends and family suddenly started asking when she’s going to settle down and how that made her feel. Recently fertility clinics across the UK claimed they have seen a surge in inquiries about egg freezing. Professor of Reproductive Biology, Mary Herbert, joins Jane to discuss what may have prompted that rise. How do you raise a kind and empathetic child with a social conscience? We speak to Uju Asika, author of Bringing Up Race: How to Raise a Kind Child in a Prejudiced World; and Miranda McKearney, founder of the Empathy Lab, a not-for-profit dedicated to teaching children empathy through fiction. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Weekend Woman's Hour - Carla Bruni, Working from Home, HIV and Bame women Oct 17, 2020

We have music from the former supermodel Carla Bruni who tells us about her new album. We hear from the Conservative MP Laura Trott who is trying to get a law passed to stop under 18s accessing filler treatments and other cosmetic procedures. We also hear from Ashton Collins from the organisation Save Face who have had reports of injuries caused by botched cosmetic procedures. A journalist who writes about paramilitaries, has made a formal complaint to the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland because investigations into threats made to her and her baby have come to nothing. She tells us why she believes her gender means she receives more threats than her male colleagues. We discuss why three-quarters of women living with HIV in the UK are of Black, Asian or minority ethnic background. We hear from Dr Rageshri Dhairyawan, a consultant in Sexual Health and HIV Medicine and two women living with HIV: Mina Kakaiya who's a mental health and mindfulness trainer of South Asian heritage, and Bakita Kasadha who's a British-Ugandan poet, activist and researcher. They discuss the stigma around the illness. Onjali Rauf tells us about her new children’s book, The Night Bus Hero, which is told from the point of view of a bully. And with so many of us working from home, and who knows when it will end, how's it going for you? We hear from clinical psychologist Linda Blair, and Chloe Davies, Head of PR & Partnerships at MyGWork. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Dolly Alderton; Rape convictions - Katie's story; How to work from home Oct 16, 2020

Dolly Alderton joins Jane to talk about her first novel Ghosts. Her protagonist Nina Dean is dealing with a lot. She’s trying to make it as a food writer and finally has a flat of her own. Her dad is slipping away from her into dementia and her Mum is set on re-inventing herself. Friends are changing and disappearing into coupledom and parenting so when Max shows up via a dating app he seems like a dream come true. In fact, Nina’s problems are only just beginning. A rape survivor we are calling Katie contacted Woman’s Hour to tell her story. After a horrific ordeal at the end of last year, a few weeks ago her former partner was convicted of rape and sexual assault and was give a lengthy prison sentence. Katie feels that she has had justice and that she was well treated by the police and in court. But, as she explains to Jane, she is left with questions and an uncomfortable feeling that other victims of rape might not have had the same treatment or outcome. At a time when the rate of convictions for rape have fallen to an all-time low, Gillian Jones, QC and Head of Chambers at Red Lion in London, responds. When many of us suddenly switched to home working back in March, we might have thought we would be back in the office by now, but 30% of us are still working from home, and there is no timetable yet for returning to offices. So how’s it going, sharing work space with other adults, children or indeed no-one at all? What have we learned about the do’s and don’ts over the last 7 months? Jane speaks to clinical psychologist Linda Blair, and Chloe Davies, Head of PR & Partnerships at MyGWork, who originally told us about her experiences of juggling her work and two young sons back in May.

Sculptor Susie MacMurray, Fillers, ADHD Late Diagnosis and Women and Forgiveness Oct 15, 2020

A striking new female figure can be seen in Kings’ Place in London, and online from this week. Medusa is a tall, headless woman whose body turns into snakes made of chainmail. For her creator, Manchester-based artist Susie MacMurray, the sculpture is a metaphor for women’s power. She and a team of female art students used 300 kilos of copper wire to create Medusa, as part of a new exhibition of her work, Murmur, which opens on 21 October. A free preview tour is also being livestreamed on YouTube and Instagram this Thursday 15 October at 6pm, just search for Pangolin London. Lip fillers and other cosmetic procedures are increasingly popular and there’s even been what the industry is calling a “zoom boom” over the last few months with people wanting to change their appearance after spending hours looking at themselves on their computers. But it’s not just adults turning to fillers, it’s also teenagers who’re often targeted on social media by advertisers and are in part influenced by the celebrities they see on TV shows. What you may not realise however is that it’s completely legal for under 18s to get fillers and it’s an area that is at present completely unregulated. Anyone can administer fillers and there are even reports of people buying fillers online and injecting themselves after watching a how-to session on Youtube. Jane Garvey talks to Laura Trott MP who is trying to get a law passed to stop under 18s accessing filler treatments and Ashton Collins from Save Face. What’s it like to get a diagnosis of ADHD as a woman in middle age? We often associate the condition with much younger people, usually boys, partly because ADHD in girls presents itself in a much quieter way. But Emma Mahony’s ADHD was formally diagnosed when she was 52. She’s written a book called Better Late Than Never, which explores how her diagnosis makes sense of her life and the decisions she’s made. Do women forgive differently from men? Jane speaks to Sandra Barefoot who works in prisons with the Forgiveness Project. She is running creative writing workshops in November with Cecilia Knapp, Young People’s Laureate for London and Anne Marie Cockburn whose daughter died of an ecstasy overdose. Can writing help people find strategies for forgiveness? Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Clare Walker Website image of Medusa courtesy of Ben Blackall

Carla Bruni on her new album; Covid and working class women; Author Onjali Rauf; The English GCSE Syllabus Oct 14, 2020

Carla Bruni's new album is described as "a wholehearted embracing of her true self." She talks to Sangita about the inspiration behind it and life under lockdown. The impact of Covid-19 on working class women. Plus the choices of set texts offered by the major exam boards for GCSE English literature. Djamila Boothman, an English and Assistant headteacher at a school in North London and children’s author Onjali Rauf discuss why we need more books written by authors of different backgrounds and ethnicities And Onjali Rauf will also be talking about her new book The Night Bus Hero which is told from the point of view of a bully. Presenter: Sangita Myska Producer: Beverley Purcell Guest: Carla Bruni Guest: Dr Mary-Ann Stephenson Guest: Onjali Rauf Guest: Djamila Boothman

Women in business and three tier lockdown. Working as a midwife. Patricia Devlin. Children's play in hospitals. Oct 13, 2020

As the new three tier Covid lock down system comes into force in England we talk to some of the businesses which’re now facing stricter restrictions. Hannah Butler who runs the Victoria Hotel in the centre of Nottingham – a city which is now in the high risk tier - and also to Tanya Harrison who runs a hair salon in Liverpool which is now in the highest risk tier. And as the Northern Ireland executive meets today to agree what new measures are needed to curb the steep rise in covid cases there, Tina McKenzie from the Federation of Small Businesses will assess the economic impact of any new restrictions. In her book Overdue: Birth, Burnout and a Blueprint for a Better NHS, Amity Reed describes what led her to becoming a midwife, in particular her desire to properly support and care for women throughout pregnancy, birth and postnatally. The reality of working in over-stretched and underfunded NHS maternity service soon shattered her illusions. The former midwife joins Jane to talk about her experiences as a midwife. A journalist who writes about paramilitaries, has made a formal complaint to the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland because investigations into threats she’s received have come to nothing. A year ago Patricia Devlin, who’s a crime journalist for the Sunday World, was posted a message on Facebook saying “Don’t go near your granny’s … Trisha. You will watch your new born get raped COMBAT 18!” It’s not the first threat she’s had but it’s the first time her baby’s been threatened. Lisa Beaumont has just been awarded Health Play Specialist of the Year from The Starlight Children’s Foundation, for her work at Leeds Children’s hospital. She joins Jane to discuss the help she provides to seriously sick children, and the impact coronavirus is having on the service she can provide. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Pregnant women and the flu jab; HIV and BAME women; Autumn fashion trends; Debra Whittingham Oct 12, 2020

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Royal College of Midwives are urging all pregnant women to take up the offer of a free flu vaccination this winter to protect themselves and their baby from complications caused by the flu virus. Sangita Myska is joined by Dr Jo Mountfield, Consultant Obstetrician and Vice President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, to discuss why this is so important. Three-quarters of women living with HIV in the UK are women of Black, Asian or minority ethnic background. Dr Rageshri Dhairyawan, a consultant in Sexual Health and HIV Medicine at Barts Health NHS Trust in London, wants to see a renewed focus on how to access those women, ensure that they have the healthcare they need to live long and healthy lives, and break down the stigma around HIV that is intense within some communities. She says South Asian women form a silent and often overlooked minority of women living with HIV, which is concerning as sexually transmitted infections are rising fastest in Asians compared to other ethnicities. Sangita Myska talks to Rageshri and two women living with HIV; Mina Kakaiya who is a mental health and mindfulness trainer of South Asian heritage, and Bakita Kasadha who is a British-Ugandan poet, activist and researcher. What are the new trends for fashion and make up this autumn, and has your approach to beauty changed with the pandemic? Sangita is joined by Edwina Ings-Chambers, beauty director at YOU magazine, Kaushal, a beauty and lifestyle content creator who has 2 million subscribers on YouTube and also to the Telegraph’s Shopping Editor Krissy Turner. Debra Whittingham spent over 31 years in the Royal Navy before taking over a role that is steeped in history. She became the first female Deputy Governor of the Tower of London in 2017. Debra is one of the stars in a new series of The Tower of London documentary to be shown on Channel 5 this Wednesday, and joins Sangita.

Power List judges - Living a greener life, Women and epilepsy, Identity politics and feminism, Essex girls Oct 10, 2020

Around 300,000 women have epilepsy in the UK. Epilepsy Research UK say that hormones can affect epilepsy, and drugs used to control it need to be very carefully balanced with medication that women take. Dr Susan Duncan is a consultant neurologist. Torie, 30 and Ruth, 60 both have it. Three of our Power List judges Lucy Siegle, Flo Headlam and Prof Alice Larkin answer your questions on how to live a greener life. The opera singer Natalya Romaniw has just been named Young Artist of the Year at the Gramophone Classical Music Awards, she tells us about the challenges of performing live during the pandemic. Last week the first hydrogen train in the UK took its maiden journey. There’s still a lot to do like making room for the batteries underneath the train, and increasing the speed. Helen Simpson and Chandra Morbey are two women behind the project.javascript:void(0) Writer and journalist Yasmin Alibhai-Brown’s new book, Ladies who Punch, is about fifty daring courageous indomitable women. The women who inspire her are black, white and brown.” Women,” she says, “have issues in common, regardless of race. Differences matter but commonalities matter more and we seem to have lost sight of that.” Joining her to discuss these issues is academic and writer, Ruby Hamad, author of forthcoming book, White Tears, Brown Scars: How White Feminism betrays women of colour. Essex Girls are the butt of countless jokes and preconceptions. Jane hears from the author Sarah Perry who has written in praise of the Essex Girl aimed at “profane and opinionated women everywhere”, and the food writer and political campaigner Jack Monroe who is a proud Essex Girl. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Hook ups, Identity Politics & Feminism, Surviving Grooming Gang in Rotherham Oct 09, 2020

Jane Garvey talks to a woman who survived being groomed by a gang in Rotherham, also to Yasmin Alibhai Brown and Ruby Hamad about identity politics and feminism and we hear from the older women who enjoy dating younger men. Producer: Lisa Jenkinson Studio Manager: Matilda Macari

Age-gaps in dating, Women and Epilepsy and How to Build Resilience Oct 08, 2020

Experts in epilepsy say women are disproportionately affected by the condition. Around 300,000 women have it in the UK. Epilepsy Research UK say that hormones can affect epilepsy, and drugs used to control it need to be very carefully balanced with medication that women take like The Pill or HRT. Women with epilepsy are also ten times more likely to die in pregnancy. Dr Susan Duncan is a consultant neurologist. Torie, 30 and Ruth, 60 both have it. Dating apps have changed how you can meet a potential partner and you can choose exactly what you like as all the information about sexuality, age, background and sexual preferences are laid out. Our reporter Henrietta Harrison, in her forties, recently joined a dating app and was inundated with messages from men in their twenties but felt uneasy about some of the approaches. It seems the ‘older woman with a younger man’ dynamic is growing in popularity on dating apps and it has long been popular in porn. She wanted to understand more about the attraction between younger men and older women. Henrietta spoke to 28 year old man we are calling Richard who is in a polyamorous relationship and regularly dates women in their forties and fifties. What is resilience? Is it something we are born with, or do our life experiences help to shape it? And does failure help us to build it? Jane discusses the issues with the writer and podcaster Elizabeth Day, author of Failosophy A Handbook For When Things Go Wrong, with the Psychologist, Emma Kenny and the Paralympian and motivational speaker Martine Wright MBE. Producer: Henrietta Harrison Editor: Karen Dalziel

Natalya Romaniw; Party political conference season, Essex Girls, the women behind the first hydrogen train. Oct 07, 2020

The opera singer Natalya Romaniw joins Jane to talk about the challenges performing live in the Covid-era and her latest role as Mimi in the ENO’s La Bohème at Alexandra Palace in London. As the political party conference season comes to a close Guardian columnist Gaby Hinsliff and Katy Balls from the Spectator consider what, if any, policies are on the table for women. Men are disproportionately affected by Covid 19 in health terms but it is women who seem to be bearing the brunt of the economic fallout of the pandemic as well as taking on a larger share of domestic work and childcare. Is the virus a step back for women’s rights? And what are the political parties planning to do about it? Apart from walking and cycling, the train is the greenest way of getting around. Trains, especially diesel ones, still emit carbon dioxide though. But, last week the first hydrogen train in the UK took its maiden journey. It’s 100% clean. There’s still a lot to do like making room for the batteries underneath the train, and increasing the speed. Jane talks to Helen Simpson and Chandra Morbey, two women – who do a jobshare – behind project. We explore the issue of Essex Girls – the butt of countless jokes and preconceptions – with the Oxford English Dictionary referring to her as "unintelligent, promiscuous, and materialistic", while Collins adds "devoid of taste" to the mix. The author Sarah Perry has just penned a book in praise of the Essex Girl aimed at “profane and opinionated women everywhere” and she’s joined by the food writer and political campaigner Jack Monroe and a proud fellow Essex Girl. Natalya Romaniw photo - copyright Patrick Allen. Presented by Jane Garvey. Produced by Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Our Planet - the Power List judges answer your questions on greener living Oct 06, 2020

We've been overwhelmed by the phenomenal response we’ve had from listeners about this year's Woman's Hour Power List - so today we’re making it all about you! Do you have questions about living a greener life? Do you want to help the planet but aren’t sure how? Send us your eco-dilemmas, queries and questions and our Power List judges Lucy Siegle, Flo Headlam and Prof Alice Larkin will be on hand with top tips and advice. You can tweet us @BBCWomansHour or email your questions to womanshour.yourviews@bbc.co.uk

Agony Aunt Mary Killen. Is gossip the glue of life? Disabled foster carers. C4's new drama "Adult Material". Oct 05, 2020

Agony Aunt and star of Googlebox Mary Killen joins Jane Garvey to urge us to channel her ultimate British Role model – The Queen . She argues we’d all be a bit happier, wiser and more adept if we adopted the underrated virtues of duty, kindness, discretion, restraint and fortitude as exemplified by Her Majesty. Could disabled people help to solve the crisis in fostering? Is gossip the glue or life, why do we do it, and who does it most? Plus the writer Lucy Kirkwood and actor Hayley Squires talk about their latest project, the drama "Adult Material" Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Beverley Purcell PHOTO CREDIT: Hugo Burnand Guest; Mary Killen Guest; Professor Robin Dunbar Guest; Lucy Kirkwood Guest; Hayley Squires Guest; Alison Bryne Guest; Peter Unwin

Weekend Woman's Hour - Jenni Murray, the Story of Cherry Groce, Butterfly Conservation Oct 03, 2020

In her final Woman’s Hour after 33 years at the helm, Jenni discusses the work that still needs to be done when it comes to feminism and equality. She's joined by Helena Kennedy QC, Jude Kelly the founder and director of The WOW Foundation, "Mother of the House" Harriet Harman MP, and poet and novelist, Jackie Kay. We hear from Lee Lawrence, whose mother Cherry Groce was shot by police in a botched dawn raid. Lee describes his fight to get justice for his mother and his ongoing commitment to challenging racism within the police force. We hear from the film director Malou Reymann about her new film ‘A Perfectly Normal Family’. It centres around an eleven year old girl whose life is turned upside down when her father tells her he wants to become a woman. The fictional story is based on Malou's own experience. Live, learn and thrive: that’s what Andrea McLean wants us to do with the help of her new book “This Girl is on Fire”. The 2020 Woman’s Hour Power List is looking for women who are trying to improve the health of our planet. We hear from Zoë Randle, the Senior Surveys Officer for Butterfly Conservation. She tells us about the thousands of volunteers who are turning their love of nature into hard data which will directly influence UK conservation policy. And Jenni leaves us with a snap-shot of her favourite-ever guests. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Siobhann Tighe

Republican women standing for Congress, Rhianna Pratchett, Chrissy Teigen's miscarriage Oct 02, 2020

We heard about women Democrats standing for Congress last week, and today we discuss Republican women. In 2018 their numbers in the House of Representatives dwindled to just 13, but now a record number are entering the November elections either as incumbents or challengers, so what made the difference and what are their chances of winning? Jane speaks to Olivia Perez-Cubas from Winning for Women, an organisation set up in 2017 to encourage more conservative female candidates, and Sarah Elliott, Chair of Republicans Overseas UK. Eleven-year-old Emma finds her life turned upside down when her father tells her he wants to become a woman. This is subject of a new Danish film ‘A Perfectly Normal Family’. The fictional story is based on the director Malou Reymann’s own experience. She joins Jane along with her father Helene. Award-winning video games writer Rhianna Pratchett speaks to Jane about her first book Crystal of Storms which aims to get young girls into the world of fantasy and gaming. Her book is part of Fighting Fantasy, a series of interactive children’s books where the reader takes on the role of the protagonist and chooses their actions by rolling a dice. Rhianna is the first female guest writer of the series. The model Chrissy Teigen's raw grief at her miscarriage has been very public. Some have been sympathetic; others question whether social media is the place for such things to be shared. Jane discusses with Ruth Bender Atik, national director of the Miscarriage Association.

Jenni Murray says 'goodbye' after 33 years with the programme Oct 01, 2020

As Jenni Murray says 'goodbye' to the programme she's presented for 33 years, she looks back at some of the battles we've won, lost and still have to fight in the company of Harriet Harman MP, Jude Kelly director and founder of the WOW Foundation, Helena Kennedy QC and the novelist and poet Jackie Kay. Plus she talks about some of her own favourite moments of the past 30 years. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Beverley Purcell Edito:; Karen Dalziel Guest: Harriet Harman Guest: Helena Kennedy Guest: Jude Kelly Guest: Jackie Kay

Yotam Ottolenghi, Long Covid and Women, Breast Cancer Screening and Talking to Children about Death Sep 30, 2020

Flavour is the third instalment in Yotam Ottolenghi’s Plenty series which celebrates the infinite potential of vegetables. Along with co-author and recipe developer Ixta Belfrage they explore techniques and processes such as infusing and charring which brings out the full flavour of the vegetable. They join Jenni to talk about how to Cook the Perfect Spicy Mushroom Lasagne. We now know that tens of thousands of people in the UK are living with Long Covid – meaning that they have not yet recovered from the effects of the virus, even if their infection was relatively mild, and happened months ago. Symptoms vary but can include breathlessness and fatigue. You might have heard presenter Adam Rutherford yesterday on Radio 4 talking about his own experience of it, and looking at the growing body of science around the condition. A picture is also now emerging of how the condition is affecting women. The Long Covid Support group on Facebook has 23,000 members in the UK and 75% of them are women. Lesley Macniven is one of the group’s campaigners and a gender inequality researcher by trade. She joins Jenni from Edinburgh. It is estimated that nearly one million women in the UK missed their routine mammogram breast screening programme appointments due to Covid-19. This is according to figures from the charity Breast Cancer Now. Their Chief Executive Baroness Delyth Morgan outlines their concerns and what needs to be done to deal with a backlog of cases. In our family secrets series Jo Morris speaks to a woman we are calling Liz, who found out her father’s fifty year old secret at the worst possible time, when she was grieving for him. Isabel Thomas has written more than 150 books about science and nature for young audiences, including Moth, which won the 2020 AAAS Prize for Excellence in Science Books. She has now written Fox - A Circle of Life Story – a picture book inspired by her own experiences of talking to her three children about death, and of having her only parent die at a young age. The book gives an unflinching scientific answer to one of the most difficult questions children ask: what happens when we die? Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Clare Walker

Cherry Groce; Gender Recognition Act; Should parents be friends with their children? Sep 29, 2020

On 28 September 1985, Lee Lawrence’s mother Cherry Groce was wrongly shot by police during a raid on her Brixton home. The bullet shattered her spine and she never walked again. Soon after it was reported – wrongly - that Cherry Groce was dead, and two days of rioting took place in Brixton. All this was witnessed by 11-year-old Lee. He became his mother’s carer. After a doctor questioned the cause of his mother’s death in 2011 Lee campaigned fiercely for an inquest, a chance to find out what really happened the day his family’s life was turned upside down. Lee joins Jane tomorrow to talk about his mother, his life as a carer, his fight to get the police to recognise their wrongdoing and his ongoing commitment to challenge racism and fight for justice. The government has announced it will not go ahead with a change to the Gender Recognition Act which would have allowed trans men and women to self identify rather than go through a medical diagnosis to change their gender. The Equalities and Human Rights Commission has said it was a ‘missed opportunity’ but women's rights groups have applauded the decision as a ‘victory for fairness and common sense’. Jane Garvey hears from two of the women who’ve been campaigning on this issue, Dr Heather Peto who is Co-Chair of Labour’s LGBT+ group and Dr Nicola Williams from the group Fair Play for Women. The 2020 Woman’s Hour Power List is looking for women who are making a significant difference to the health of our planet. But that power doesn’t have to be held on boards or by leading international organisations. Zoë Randle, the Senior Surveys Officer for Butterfly Conservation, tells Jane about the hugely important role played by hundreds of thousands of volunteers – who are turning their love of nature into hard data that directly influences conservation policy in the UK. Do you think there should be clearly defined parent/child relationship? Or maybe you think of your family as more of a team or that your child is like a friend. If you’ve been watching the new Netflix series The Duchess which features a mum’s friendship with her child, you may have been asking yourself about your own parenting style. Jane Garvey talks to Dr Holan Liang an NHS Consultant Child & adolescent Psychiatrist in London, a mother and author of the book Inside Out Parenting and Rowan Coleman who’s an author and mother to five children ranging from 19 to twins of 8.

The Government's Early Years review, Andrea McLean, Celebrating 'alonement' Sep 28, 2020

The government is carrying out a review into how to improve health outcomes for babies and children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Early Years development review will look at the critical first two and a half years of life which has a significant impact on the physical health, mental health and opportunity throughout life. We hear from the government's Early Years adviser Andrea Leadsom MP. In August we spoke to Alexandra Wilson about her book “In Black and White” - breaking down barriers of race and class to become a barrister. Last week she tweeted how she’d been mistaken for a defendant three times in one day in court. She joins Jane. Live, learn and thrive – that’ what Andrea McLean wants us to be able to achieve with the help of her new book “This Girl is on Fire”. In it she shares her own experiences of overcoming toxic relationships, a breakdown and burnout to help us see that we can change ourselves and change our life. There are many terms that are used to describe spending time alone, but most of them have negative connotations. Journalist Francesca Specter has coined the term “alonement” to describe celebrating the time you spend alone. She shares the inspiration behind the term, how it has helped her during lockdown, and how we can all learn the skills of solitude. A new study led by researchers at UCL and York University, Canada, shows that skin to skin contact with a parent reduces how strongly a newborn baby’s brain responds to a painful medical jab. Dr Laura Jones explains. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

The Woman's Hour Power List 2020, Mary McAleese, Known Donations, Chutney Sep 26, 2020

The 2020 Woman’s Hour Power List is ‘Our Planet’ - the search is on for 30 women based in the UK who are making a significant positive contribution to the environment. Emma Howard Boyd, the chair of the Environment Agency, and Flo Headlam, a horticulturalist and garden designer are two of the judges. Mary McAleese was twice president of Ireland, studied canon law when her term ended and, to the surprise of many, as she has a deep personal faith, spoke out against misogyny in the global Catholic Church. Her autobiography is called ‘Here’s the Story : A Memoir.’ There’s been a rise in websites and Facebook groups offering Known Donation, where a person seeking to conceive uses a sperm or egg donation from someone they know, or got to know before the treatment. We hear from Sarah Norcross, Director of the Progress Educational Trust; Erika Tranfield, the mother of a donor-conceived child from a known donor; and Natasha Fox, a donor-conceived adult who does not know the identity of her biological father. Emily Hunt was filmed when she was asleep in a hotel room. A man was convicted of voyeurism, but it took her several years to secure that conviction and she decided to waive her right to anonymity to fight her case. But what do you gain and what do you lose if you do give up your anonymity? Jenni hears from Emily and Leona O’Callaghan who did the same: she waived her right to anonymity when the man who abused her as a child was on trial and then convicted. She also hears from “Rebecca” who doesn’t want to waive her anonymity. She’s pressing the CPS to prosecute a man who she says attacked and raped her. When actor Shobna Gulati’s mum was diagnosed with dementia in 2017, she was already spending the majority of her time caring for her. Her mother has since died, and she’s written a memoir about her family and her mum’s illness called Remember Me? Discovering my mother as she lost her memory. It is chutney and pickle season and a great opportunity to use up your remaining fruit and veg. Food historian Lizzie Collingham explains the history behind the relishes. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Dianne McGregor

The Windrush generation, Jess Gillam, Waiving your right to anonymity Sep 25, 2020

Windrush campaigner, Paulette Wilson’s brave decision to speak to Amelia Gentleman about the immigration issues she was facing with the Home Office was crucial in exposing the Windrush scandal. In her book, The Windrush Betrayal, Gentleman tells the full story of her investigation. Campaigner, Glenda Caesar was also caught up in the hostile environment – she came to Britain legally as a three-month-old child and had no reason to think she was not British until she was she was sacked from her job as an NHS administrator. She was one of the first recipients of the first Windrush compensation offers which she rejected as insulting. Lawyer, Jacqueline McKenzie explains why there is such a delay in victims receiving payments. Following her debut album ‘Rise’ which reached No.1 in the UK Classical Chart, award-winning saxophonist Jess Gilliam is back with a new album. She joins us to discuss diversity in classical music and advice for playing an instrument during lockdown. At the beginning of the month, you may have come across the story of Emily Hunt. She was filmed when she was asleep in a hotel room. A man was convicted of voyeurism, but it took her several years to secure that conviction and Emily decided to waive her right to anonymity to fight her case. But what do you gain and what do you lose if you do give up being anonymous? Joining us is Emily. Also Leona O’Callaghan who did the same: she waived her right to anonymity when the man who abused her as a child was on trial and then convicted. And someone who wants to be called “Rebecca” who doesn’t want to waive her anonymity. She’s pressing the CPS to prosecute a man who she says attacked and raped her. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Alison Steadman, Mary McAleese, The Woman's Hour Power List 2020, Chutney. Sep 24, 2020

The award-winning actor Alison Steadman joins Jenni to discuss her latest projects. ’23 Walks’ is a film telling a love story in later life, and ‘Life’ is a new BBC1 drama set in Manchester, and follows the stories of the residents of a large house divided into four flats. It explores love, loss, birth, death, the ordinary, the extraordinary and everything in between. Mary McAleese was President of Ireland twice. When she finished her second term, she turned her sights on the global Catholic Church, and having the credibility of a doctorate in Canon Law behind her, she spoke out against what she saw as the misogyny within it. She did it despite having a deep personal faith that goes back to her childhood. Mary was born in Belfast in the 1950s; witnessed the Troubles as they started and how they went onto to wreak havoc and pain on both sides. She became a barrister even though it wasn’t expected of a woman: especially a woman from a working class background. She’s brought out her autobiography - Here’s The Story. The 2020 Woman’s Hour Power List is all about ‘Our Planet’ - and the search is on for 30 women based in the UK who are making a significant positive contribution to the environment. This could be through working in conservation or running a local anti-plastic campaign – but there are also less obvious sectors in which women are making a huge difference. Emma Howard Boyd, the chair of the Environment Agency, and Flo Headlam, a horticulturalist and garden designer talk to Jenni about their less conventional journeys into green careers – and highlight the lesser known areas where women are driving change. With Autumn setting in, it’s chutney and pickle season and a great opportunity to use up your remaining fruit and veg. Food historian Lizzie Collingham explains the history behind these tasty relishes. Presented by Jenni Murray Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Women's football; Black women running for office in the US; Sue Miller's novel Monogamy Sep 23, 2020

Why are the world’s best female footballers signing for English clubs? In the past few weeks some of the world’s best female footballers have signed for clubs in the Women’s Super League, highlighting a power shift in women’s football globally and setting up an enticing season, which will be watched, at least remotely, by more fans than ever before. The new arrivals include five of the US World Cup-winning team, most notably Alex Morgan at Tottenham Hotspur, who scored one of the goals that knocked England out of the 2019 World Cup. To discuss the women’s game and the draw to English clubs, Jenni is joined by BBC Women’s Sport Reporter, Jo Currie, and Kristine Leine, Defender for Reading FC Women. New data from a parliamentary committee suggests the problem of poor body image has increased during lockdown. The social media survey by the Women and Equalities committee is being published today as they start hearing evidence from experts about body image on areas such as who’s at risk, the impact on mental health and issues such digital editing and image filtering online. Negative body image can have a serious effect on self esteem and lead to depression, eating disorders and the use of medication such as diet pills, laxatives and steroids. The committee’s chair Caroline Nokes talks about what the inquiry hopes to achieve. This year at least 266 women of colour - 175 Democrat and 91 Republican - are major-party candidates for the U.S. Congress, setting new records for the 2020 elections. We hear from Candace Valenzuela standing for office in Dallas, Texas and Desiree Tims in Dayton, Ohio. Kimberly Peeler-Allen, a co-founder of Higher Heights, an organisation supporting Black women into elected office, joins them. Sue Miller’s new novel Monogamy explores a long relationship and complicated grief. Annie and Graham have a loving relationship that has lasted for decades but when the unthinkable happens Annie has to re-evaluate everything.

The Woman's Hour Power List 2020, US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, Known Donation Sep 22, 2020

Today we launch the Woman’s Hour Power List 2020 - Our Planet. We will be looking for 30 women based in the UK who are making a significant positive contribution to the environment or the sustainability of our planet. It will showcase inspirational initiatives and stories that are bringing about real change at all levels of society – from influencing global policy and changing human behaviour, to inventing eco-friendly products, spearheading scientific research, volunteering in community gardens, and inspiring a deep love of the natural world. Jane is joined by two of the judges - Lucy Siegle and Zunaira Malik - to discuss who we’re looking for and how listeners can tell us who they think should be in the running. In 2016 Ilhan Omar became the United States’ first Somali-American lawmaker, joining the Minnesota House of Representatives as a Democrat. Two years later she In became one of the first two Muslim women elected to US Congress. She’s 37 and has described herself as ‘America’s hope and the President’s nightmare.’ In May this year George Floyd, an unarmed black man was killed by police in her home city of Minneapolis, sparking protests across the world. Her book is This is What America Looks Like: My Journey from Refugee to Congresswoman. There’s been a rise in websites and Facebook groups offering Known Donation in recent years, where a person seeking to conceive uses a sperm or egg donation from someone they know or get to know before the treatment. What’s behind it, and what are the pros and cons of this method of assisted conception? We discuss with Sarah Norcross, Director of the Progress Educational Trust; Erika Tranfield, the mother of a donor-conceived child from a known donor; and Natasha Fox, a donor-conceived adult who does not know the identity of her biological father. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Shobna Gulati. British Touring Car driver Jade Edwards. Playground politics. Sarah Brown. Sep 21, 2020

When actor Shobna Gulati’s mum was diagnosed with dementia in 2017, she was already spending the majority of her time caring for her. Their sometimes difficult relationship was tested to the limit, but ultimately she gained a lot from those years spent in her mum’s front room. When she passed away last year she decided to write a book about her family and her mum’s illness called Remember Me? Discovering my mother as she lost her memory. At the weekend Jade Edwards will become the first woman in 13 years to race in the British Touring Car Championship at Silverstone. So why's it taken so long to see another woman on the course? Jade joins us, along with Fiona Leggate, the last female driver who competed back in 2007. Have you been given the silent treatment by another parent at school, or felt excluded from a group of mums? Now the new school year is well underway, playground politics can sometimes extend to the other side of the school gate. Jane discusses coping strategies with counselling psychologist Dr Rachel Allan and Tanith Carey, author of The Friendship Maze and Taming the Tiger Parent. Because of the Covid 19 pandemic up to 10 million children around the world are likely to be permanently excluded from getting an education according to the UK charity Theirworld. It's run by Sarah Brown, wife of the former Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Ahead of a virtual session later today at the UN General Assembly Meeting she talks to Jane about how the charity advocates on global education issues at both a strategic and practical level . Presenter Jane Garvey. Producer Beverley Purcell Photo Credit. The About Studio.

Weekend Woman's Hour - The Feminisation of alcohol marketing, Nudity & Sculptor Bridget McCrum Sep 19, 2020

How does the feminisation of alcohol work? We hear from Carol Emslie a Professor of substance use and misuse at the School of Health and Life Sciences at Glasgow Caledonian University, Kate Baily a podcast host and the co-author of Love Yourself Sober – a self-care guide to alcohol-free living for busy mothers and from Dr Athanasia Daskalopoulou, a Lecturer in Marketing at the University of Liverpool Management School. What are the pros and cons of being naked in front of your children? Rosie Haine, a writer and illustrator whose book is called “It Isn’t Rude to be Nude and Dr Keon West, a psychologist at Goldsmiths, University of London, discuss. Three quarters of black women do not feel the NHS protects them equally. That’s according to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights which commissioned a poll on being Black in the UK. We hear from researcher Celine Henry and Harriet Harman MP Chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights. Julia Gillard, once Prime Minister of Australia, and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, economist and international development expert from Nigeria and also a woman with experience at the top of the Nigerian politics, have come together to explore women and leadership. They tell us about the book they’ve written together. Bridget McCrum didn’t start her career as a sculptor until she was in her forties. Now at 86 she is still working with stone and in the last 10 years has had more interest in her work than ever - a recent commission sold for 68, 000 pounds. The author Nina Stibbe tells us about winning the Comedy Women in Print Prize with her book ‘Reasons To Be Cheerful’ with chair of the judges Marian Keyes. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Sarah Crawley

Domestic Violence on EastEnders, Nudity, Wool Sep 18, 2020

The domestic abuse story in EastEnders comes to a tragic end tonight. Chantelle is killed by her husband, Gray. We speak to the Head of Continuing Drama at BBC Studios, Kate Oates, and Sarah Davidge from Woman’s Aid, about how the storyline reflects the sharp rise in domestic violence during lockdown. Are you happy being naked in front of your children? Or does it make you feel uncomfortable? We talk to the illustrator Rosie Haine who’s created a children’s book called “It Isn’t Rude to be Nude”. It's full of naked bodies of all shapes and sizes. We also hear from psychologist Dr Keon West from Goldsmiths in London whose research suggests nudity might help with body image and self-esteem. A new film called Rocks focuses on a teenage schoolgirl and her group of loyal friends. One day Rocks' mother leaves and she’s left to care for herself and her seven year old brother. The story was developed in workshops with teenage girls and the cast is largely made up of non-professional actors. The film has received rave reviews on the international festival circuit. Two of the lead characters Bukky Bakray and Kosar Ali plus the director, Sarah Gavron, talk to us about the film and what it says about empowerment, banter and female friendship. The sale of wool has recently gone up but behind the scenes it's not all rosy. Since the pandemic hit, the price farmers get for their fleeces has dropped by nearly 50%, with some saying the situation's so bad they actually lose money when selling it. We talk to knitting designer and wool producer, Susan Crawford and to Minette Batters, the President of the National Union of Farmers.

Jacqueline Wilson, Women and Journalism, Pensions Campaign and Alcohol Marketing Sep 17, 2020

Children’s author Jacqueline Wilson joins tells us about her new book Love Frankie about a teenager falling in love for the first time. Frankie lives with her two sisters and her recently divorced mum who is seriously ill with MS and is being bullied by a girl called Sally and her gang at school. But eventually the two girls strike up a friendship and as they spend more time together, Frankie starts to develop stronger feelings for Sally. Jacqueline tells Jenni why, having written over a hundred books, this is the first she has written about same sex relationships following her decision to reveal that she herself was gay earlier this year. A report by Women in Journalism shows that there is still a shocking lack of diversity among our media. The report revealed that no UK newspaper had a front page story by a Black reporter in the week studied, and out of 174 front page bylines, just two were written by BAME women. Out of a total of 723 radio reporter appearances, just 4 were by Black women and when non-white expert guests were asked to appear on radio and TV news, it was often to support coverage related to race. We discuss how this lack of diversity impacts the news that is covered and also what this means for women's careers as journalists. Campaigners affected by the state pension age being changed from 60 to 66 for women have lost their appeal against a High Court ruling. Senior judges unanimously dismissed the appeal led by Julie Delve and Karen Glynn, backed by the campaign group BackTo60. They said despite having sympathy for the women involved, it was not a case of unlawful discrimination under EU and human rights laws and that the changes were a "long-overdue move towards gender equality". Around 3.8 million women have been affected by raising the state pension age and Unison, the UK's largest trade union, said doing so with "next to no notice" has had a calamitous effect on the retirement plans of a generation of women. Jenni speaks to Joanne Welch the director of BackTo60 to find out what options are available to them now. Have you ever thought about the way that alcohol is marketed when it comes to women? Do you find it patronising or fun? A growing number of marketing companies and campaigns are using the colour pink, glitter and the slogan ‘female empowerment’ to sell alcoholic beverages. Does it work? Carol Emslie is a Professor of substance use and misuse at the School of Health and Life Sciences at Glasgow Caledonian University. Kate Baily is a podcast host and the co-author of Love Yourself Sober – a self-care guide to alcohol-free living for busy mothers and Dr Athanasia Daskalopoulou is a Lecturer in Marketing at the University of Liverpool Management School. Producer: Clare Walker

Saskia Reeves in 'Us', a new BBC1 drama Sep 16, 2020

Julia Gillard, once Prime Minister of Australia, and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, economist and international development expert from Nigeria and also a woman with experience at the top of the Nigerian politics, have come together to explore women and leadership. They’ve written a book together and interviewed high profile global leaders who are women: women like Jacinda Ardern, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Christine Lagarde and Theresa May. Saskia Reeves is best known for the films Close My Eyes and I.D. and her numerous roles in dramas like Spooks, Luther, Wallander, Page Eight and Wolf Hall. On Sunday you can watch her in the first of a four part comedy drama for BBC 1 called 'Us'. Based on the novel by David Nicholls, she is Connie who wants to end her 24 year relationship with her husband Douglas – played by Tom Hollander. But he’s meticulously planned and booked a European tour with their teenage son Albie – and so they decide to go ahead with it. Jenni talks to Saskia about how relationships change as children leave and you grow older, and the joys of filming in cities like Paris, Amsterdam and Barcelona. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that currently affects over 130,000 people in the UK. It’s three times more common in women than in men, with many of those women being diagnosed in their 20s and 30s. It’s been known for some time that pregnancy can lessen the symptoms and reduce the chance of relapse for those who already have MS. But now a new study from Monash University in Australia shows that pregnancy can help women before symptoms begin – by delaying the onset of MS by more than three years. Lead researcher Dr Vilija Jokubaitis joins Jenni to talk about the findings and what it might mean for women at higher risk of developing the condition. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Julia Gillard Interviewed Guest: Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Interviewed Guest: Saskia Reeves Interviewed Guest: Dr Vilija Jokubaitis

Comedy Women in Print Prize 2020; Contraception and young women; Mandy Cassidy Sep 15, 2020

The Comedy Women in Print Prize is the only literary prize in the UK and Ireland to spotlight funny writing by women. Now in its second year, it was launched by comedian and actress Helen Lederer in response to the lack of exposure for female comedy writing. The 2020 shortlist for Published Comic Novel included the likes of Candice Carty-Williams, and Jeanette Winterson, but the winner was announced on Monday evening as Nina Stibbe for her novel Reasons to be Cheerful. We’re joined by Nina and the Chair of Judges and bestselling author Marian Keyes. A study by Imperial College London suggests that providing financial incentives for GPs to offer information about long-acting reversible contraceptives, such as the hormonal implant, is associated with an increase in their use and a reduction in the number of abortions, particularly in young women ages 20-24 and those from deprived backgrounds. The study used anonymised data from over 3 million women over a 10 year period. Jenni speaks to Professor Sonia Saxena, one of the co-authors of the research. When listener Christine was a kid she was told never to talk to neighbours or answer any of their questions and people outside the family weren’t allowed in the house. She never knew the reason why. But she has just discovered a shocking secret and now has answers. Christine spoke to reporter Jo Morris. A new series of Ambulance starts on Wednesday 16th September on BBC One. Jenni speaks to one of the people featured, an emergency medical dispatcher called Mandy Cassidy, who was motivated to work for the Ambulance Service when she lost her son. He was just 18 years old and was a victim of knife crime. He wasn’t in a gang, but simply had gone out with friends. There was an argument that night and he was stabbed. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Sarah Crawley

Black Women and Human Rights, Film Diversity, Tracey Crouch MP Sep 14, 2020

According to the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Human Rights, three quarters of black women do not feel the NHS protects them equally. That's the findings of a poll it commissioned on being Black in the UK. The poll also highlights Black women's thoughts on their human rights and the police. We hear from Celine Henry who's one of the researchers, and the Chair of the Committee, Harriet Harman, MP. Famous film awards are trying to improve their diversity with new rules. We discuss how effective it'll be with Mariette Rissenbeek who's the Executive Director of the Berlinale and Tolu Akisanya who's a journalist, film publicist and part of The Culture Reel podcast. The sculptor, Bridget McCrum, didn't start her career til she was in her forties. Now 86, she's still working with stone and in the last 10 years has had more interest in her work than ever. One of her pieces recently sold for £68, 000. Tracey Crouch is an MP based in Kent. She used to be Sports Minister but resigned two years ago because of the Government’s stance on fixed-odds betting machines. During the summer, she announced publicly that she's got breast cancer. She says that her going public has persuaded others to get examined.

Laura Bates on extreme misogyny online, Stephanie Yeboah on body positivity, the end of the office romance, women and debt. Sep 12, 2020

Laura Bates is founder of the Everyday Sexism Project. In her latest book, she traces the roots of extreme misogyny across a complex network of online groups from Pick Up Artists to Incels. Laura explains what attracts men and boys these movements. Blogger Stephanie Yeboah has been a part of the fat acceptance and body positive movement for years. Her first book – ‘Fattily Ever After’ – is a self-help guide and love letter to black, plus size women everywhere. In the latest of our How To series, Jenni discusses how to be on time with Grace Pacie, author of LATE! A Time-bender’s guide to why we are late and how we can change, and therapist and writer Philippa Perry. Buy Now and Pay Later is increasingly being offered by many online retailers. How much are young women being led to spend more than they can afford? Jenni speaks to financial campaigner Alice Tapper, Sue Anderson from debt charity Step Change and Anna, who has managed to clear considerable debt. Now that non-invasive cosmetic procedures are able to resume operating after lockdown, are treatments such as Botox being normalised? We take a look at the trends over time with journalists Alice Hart-Davis and Melanie Abbott. As we increasingly work from home, is this the end of the office romance on screen and in real life? And why do we love the idea of one so much in the first place? We speak to the film critic Anna Smith and the Metro lifestyle editor Ellen Scott. CLIP CREDIT: The Office. Written by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Lucy Wai Editor: Lucinda Montefiore

How to be on Time, Report on the Impact of Covid-19 on Maternity and Paternal leave, Daughters of Objects, Shere Hite Sep 11, 2020

Are you always just a bit late to everything – even when there isn’t an actual reason? Is your time-keeping a source of stress for you and others? Help is at hand. In the latest of our How To series, Jenni discusses how to be on time with Grace Pacie, author of LATE! A Time-bender’s guide to why we are late and how we can change, and therapist and writer Philippa Perry. On Wednesday this week the Government outlined their response to a landmark report from the Petitions Committee on the impact of COVID-19 on maternity and parental leave. Jenni is joined by the Chair of the Committee, Catherine McKinnell MP to discuss the issues. We remember the author of the Shere Hite report on women and sex. In 1976 she published her report on female sexuality and told us most women can easily reach orgasm through clitoral stimulation but only 30% claim to achieve it during intercourse. Jenni met her in May 2006. In 2011, a Bronze Age burial chamber was excavated on Whitehorse Hill on Dartmoor. Inside were astonishingly rare remains of cremated human bone, animal pelts and jewellery. The 3500-year-old remains are thought to belong to a high ranking female, and her story has now inspired a new play being performed this week. ‘Daughters of Sunset’ tells the story of two queens leading matriarchal societies on Dartmoor and Exmoor in 1100BC, and explores the way women lead communities in times of crisis. Florrie Taylor is the play’s co-producer and Jane Marchand is an archaeologist who oversaw the remarkable excavation of the ‘Whitehorse lady’. The writer and broadcaster Sali Hughes has been talking to women about objects in their lives that are important to them. Today it’s the turn of the violinist Eos Counsell. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Laura Bates on extreme misogyny groups online. Getting into debt. Young women and rheumatoid arthritis Sep 10, 2020

Laura Bates is founder of the Everyday Sexism Project. In her latest book – Men Who Hate Women - she traces the roots of extreme misogyny across a complex network of online groups - extending from Men's Rights Activists and Pick up Artists to Men Going their Own Way, Trolls and the Incel movement. She explains how they operate and how she hopes drawing parallels with other extremist movements around the world will help us to understand what makes them attractive to men and boys.. Women – and specifically young women – have always been hugely over-represented when it comes to debt. Since the pandemic, charities are hearing from more and more who find themselves in financial difficulty. Anna who’s now 22 shares how she's managed to clear considerable debt. Sue Anderson from debt charity Step Change talks bout the trends they’re seeing when it comes to women and money. Plus financial campaigner Alice Tapper on why she thinks the increasing use of ‘buy-now-pay-later’ methods need much more scrutiny,. This week is Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Week. It's a disease that affects three times more women than men under the age of 65. Women tend to develop it younger than men, with symptoms typically appearing between the ages of 30 and 50 – some can even start to develop it in their teens. So what’s it like to be a young woman living with the condition? Yulanda Sabrina is a singer and was diagnosed five years ago at the age of 28. She speaks to Jenni along with Clare Jacklin, Chief Executive of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society. Presenter Jenni Murray Producer Beverley Purcell

Olive Thomas, The End of the Office Romance, Senior Women in the NHS, Parents Guide to Keeping Kids Suicide Safe Sep 09, 2020

From flapper to femme fatale: Olive Thomas was the wild-living sex symbol of the jazz age and one of Hollywood's first starlets - but ended up dying in agony from poison in Paris Ritz 100 years ago. Suicide... or revenge of a jealous husband? Pamela Hutchinson, Film historian and critic specialising in silent cinema joins Jenni to discuss the story. The NHS in England employs more than a million women, who make up 77% of the workforce, but that is not reflected in its senior leadership. In 2016 a target was set of 50:50 women to men on NHS boards by 2020. This has been missed, but the figure has risen to 44.7%. The NHS Confederation estimates that another 150 women need to be recruited overall, with some trusts having much further to go than others. Jenni speaks to Sam Allen, Chief Executive of Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Chair of the Health and Care Women Leaders Network at the NHS Confederation, and Prof Ruth Sealy from Exeter University Business School, who authored the report. Suicide is the biggest killer of young people under 35 in the UK (ONS figures). A new guide for parents who are really worried about their children has been put out by Papyrus, an organisation which aims to prevent suicide. It encourages parents who might be scared to talk to their children, to make sure they do. It’s been over five months since many of us sat in an office with a collective of colleagues. The work parties and special occasions are happening behind a screen. And more people than ever are thinking about permanently working from home. Is this well and truly the death of office relationships? And why do we love the idea of one so much in the first place? Anna Smith is a film critic and a host of the Girls On Film podcast. Ellen Scott is the Lifestyle Editor at the Metro UK. She met her partner at work four years ago. CLIP CREDIT: The Office. Written by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Presenter Jenni Murray.

Lissie Harper’s campaign, body positivity in the age of Covid, Toddler tantrums and the other Tchaikovsky. Sep 08, 2020

PC Andrew Harper’s widow Lissie says she has cabinet support for a new law – under which anyone who kills an emergency services worker would be jailed for life. PC Andrew Harper was killed last summer in the line of duty. The three teenagers who were responsible for his death were jailed for manslaughter. She joins Jane to talk about why she’s campaigning for a new law – under which anyone who kills an emergency services worker would be jailed for life. Blogger Stephanie Yeboah has been a part of the fat acceptance and body positive movement for years. Her first book – ‘Fattily Ever After’ – is a self-help guide and love letter to black, plus size women everywhere. As new figures emerge about the higher risk Covid 19 has on obese people, She tells Jane about the book and its message Afraid of your toddler? We hear from a new TV supernanny who thinks parents have lost their grip on their children’s behaviour. Do you struggle to say no to you toddler for fear of an embarrassing temper tantrum? Did lockdown affect how you discipline your kids? Laura Amies is the nanny on the Channel 5 show Toddlers Behaving (Very) Badly and Laverne Antrobus, is a child psychologist at the Tavistock Clinic Plus the real life story of visionary lesbian activist Chris Tchaikovsky from her time as leader of criminal gang The Happy Firm, through stints behind bars, to her founding of Women In Prison Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Henrietta Harrison. PHOTO; Jason Bye/MartisMedia

Botox, Covid-19 and pregnancy, Tidying and decluttering, Debora Harding Sep 08, 2020

What do we know so far about COVID – clinically and scientifically – in women, including those who are pregnant. Jane talks to Professor Louise Kenny a clinical academic from Liverpool Women’s Hospital We’ve all heard of ‘tidy desk, tidy mind’ but is there any truth in the well-known phrase? With all of us spending more time at home during lockdown, many people used that time to have a clear out and get rid of some clutter. After so many TV shows appearing where we watch people tidy others’ houses, we ask why tidying up is so satisfying and if the amount of clutter we have in our homes can affect our mental health. Now that non-invasive cosmetic procedures are able to resume operating after lockdown, are treatments such as Botox being normalised? We take a look at the trends over time and speak to a regular Botox user about how people’s attitudes to Botox are changing. It was watching Christine Blasey Ford testify against Brett Kavanaugh that finally convinced Debora Harding that she needed to write her own memoir. The result, Dancing with the Octopus: Telling of a True Crime. The book tells the story of Debora’s kidnap and rape at the age of 14 in Omaha, USA and the aftermath while living in a dysfunctional family. Debora talks to Jane about reckoning and recovery, the long terms effects of trauma, being a survivor of violent crime and how our families shape us. Presenter: Jane Garvey Interviewed guest: Professor Louise Kenny Interviewed guest: Rachel Burditt Interviewed guest: Heather Sequeira Interviewed guest: Mel Abbott Interviewed guest: Alice Hart-Davis Interviewed guest: Debora Harding Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Educating Rita at 40, Muslim women on love and desire & Teen mum to midwife Sep 05, 2020

Forty years since Willy Russell’s play Educating Rita was first performed we hear from some real life Rita’s, Willy Russell and Julie Walters on the films influence Sam Baker, the former editor of Cosmopolitan and Red and author of The Shift, Kelechi Okafor who’s an actor, director and podcaster and the journalist, Rebecca Reid, who’s written The Power of Rude on how to be assertive without coming across as angry and unapproachable . We hear how a book, A Match Made in Heaven, featuring stories by British Muslim Women about Love And Desire is trying to get beyond the stereotypes of subservient Muslim women. Editors Nafhesa Ali and Claire Chambers and the writer Noren Haq discuss. Dame Cressida Dick the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police tells us how the force is managing during the ongoing pandemic Stephanie Walker on how she went from a fourteen year old pregnant teenager to a fully qualified midwife. Plus the author Ann Cleaves talks about her latest novel The Darkest Evening – the ninth in the Vera series Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Beverley Purcell

Hilary Swank; Miscarriage in lockdown; Muslim women write about love and desire Sep 04, 2020

Hilary Swank, the two time Oscar-winning actress of Boys Don’t Cry and Million Dollar Baby, stars in new Netflix drama Away. She plays Commander Emma Green who leaves behind her husband and daughter to lead an international crew of astronauts on a perilous three-year mission to Mars. She talks to Jane about being an astronaut, dealing with claustrophobia, caring for her Dad, Devon cream teas, and parrots. 1 in 4 women will lose a baby during pregnancy or birth. During lockdown NHS maternity services carried on, but new rules were brought in to minimise patient contact to protect pregnant women and staff – but how did this affect people who were going through a miscarriage? Helen and Fatma who both miscarried at the height of lockdown share their experiences and we hear from consultant gynaecologist Dr Christine Ekechi. New book A Match Made in Heaven – British Muslim Women Write About Love And Desire tells many different stories about sex and relationships. Featuring emerging writers who took part in writing workshops in Leeds, Bradford and Glasgow as well as more established talent, the aim was to get beyond the stereotypes of subservient Muslim women. Editors Nafhesa Ali and Claire Chambers and the writer Noren Haq join Jane.

How to be assertive; Rural domestic abuse; Author Helen FitzGerald Sep 03, 2020

In the latest of our How to guides, we discuss the art of being assertive and explore why it can be so difficult for women to stand up for themselves, assert their own needs and make themselves heard. Jenni is joined by journalist and author of the Power of Rude, Rebecca Reid, Journalist, broadcaster and author of The Shift, Sam Baker, and actor, podcaster and writer Kelechi Okafor. Recently we spoke to 16 year old Rhea in Shetland about the stories she had collected about sexual violence in her area. Last year, Judith, who moved to the Scottish Highlands from London, told reporter Kathleen Garragher about the culture of privacy and keeping yourself to yourself. When her husband became abusive she didn’t feel able to ask for help. The author Helen FitzGerald on her latest domestic noir thriller – Ash Mountain – set in a small Australian town threatened by bush fires and the impact of historic sex crimes. Helen trained as a social worker in the probation service and her novel The Cry about the disappearance of a baby following a flight to Australia was adapted for BBC TV in 2018. How much of her life has been influenced by her own childhood experiences growing up in Australia? Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Henrietta Harrison

The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Cressida Dick Sep 02, 2020

The Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Cressida Dick, talks to Jenni about working with women in the community to help combat violent crime. She wants both the victims of things like domestic abuse and knife crime and those around them have the confidence to speak out about what’s happening in their area. She’s been working closely with mothers who’ve lost children to violence and is exploring how the Force can work with them to help protect our young people from being drawn in to, or becoming victims of violent crime. Stephanie Walker was 14 when she became pregnant. She was so impressed with how her midwife looked after her that she decided to go into the profession herself. Fourteen years on from the birth of her first child, Stephanie has just become fully qualified to deliver babies herself. She joins Jenni. Lady Barbara Judge, whose death was announced today, was on the Woman’s Hour Power list in 2013. She was described as one of the best connected women in the country – a real pioneer for women in the law, banking and business. Her roles included Chairman of the Pension Protection Fund, Chairman of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, and UK Business Ambassador. She spoke to Jane about her influences and career. The history of women being empowered by the death of their husband is explored in the book Widows - Poverty, Power and Politics. The author and historian, Maggie Andrews, explains how many widows used their newfound autonomy and financial independence to improve women’s lives for the better. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Annette Bening, Covid realities project, Ann Cleeves, Corroboration in rape trials Sep 01, 2020

Annette Bening stars in a new film 'Hope Gap' about the collapse of a marriage after 29 years. She joins Jane to discuss the disintegration of that union. The Covid realities project from York and Birmingham universities chronicles the experiences of low-income families during the lockdown period. Jane hears about the project from Dr Maddy Power, Research Fellow at the University of York and founder of the York Food Justice Alliance, and from Shirley who is taking part in the project. Ann Cleeves is the author of more than thirty critically acclaimed novels. She previously worked as a probation officer, bird observatory cook, and auxiliary coastguard before she started writing. Her latest novel is The Darkest Evening – the ninth in the Vera series. What impact does corroboration have on conviction rates for rape in Scotland? We hear from Emma Bryson, a founder member of Speak Out Survivors, and Grazia Robertson, a criminal lawyer based in Glasgow who sits on the Law Society of Scotland Criminal Law Committee. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Educating Rita at 40 with Julie Walters, Willy Russell and real life Ritas Aug 31, 2020

This summer marks 40 years since Willy Russell’s landmark play Educating Rita was first performed. The funny and moving story of a 26 year-old Liverpudlian hairdresser studying for an Open University degree has barely been off stage since. Dame Julie Walters played the lead role in both the original theatrical production and the later film, for which she was Oscar-nominated. She joins Jane to talk about what playing the role has meant to her, and how much Rita/Susan’s experience chimed with her own. Jane also speaks to Willy Russell about Rita’s story, and why he believes it has resonated with so many women. They are joined by four real life Ritas – working-class women who returned to education in later life, Glynthea Modood, Sue Slater, Kate Wiseman, and the Open University’s Pro Vice Chancellor Liz Marr.

Listener Week - Nits, Accents, Becoming a mother unexpectedly, Paddle sports, Losing your belongings, Choirs Aug 29, 2020

Louise Somerville thinks we need to talk more about nits. She feels that increasingly schools are inconsistent in how much they help parents deal with nits and that clear advice is lacking. We ask how best to deal with nits and head lice, and the stigma attached, and why it matters. With entomologist Richard Jones and Joanna Ibarra from Community Hygiene Concern. Daisy Leigh was 23 when she felt an unfamiliar kicking sensation and was shocked to discover she was 30 weeks pregnant. She had just two months to prepare, mentally and practically, for becoming a mother. Nine months on, she says her daughter is the best thing that's ever happened to her. Women and Paddling: kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, rafting; what are the attractions, what is involved, and how can paddle sports help physical and mental health? Cadi Lambert runs the #ShePaddles programme for British Canoeing, and Emma Kitchen has started training to be a coach to help people improve their paddle skills. Are women taken more seriously in the work place if they have an RP accent? Jane hears from listeners Karen Jenkins, Bethan John and Dr. Melanie Reynolds, and Professor Deviyani Sharma, Professor of Socio-linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. How do you cope when you lose all your belongings? Eve, Pat Plumbridge and Sue Hepworth discuss. How much do you miss singing in a choir? Carolyn Acton, Sandra Colston, MD Funky Choir MD and Liesbeth Tip, Clinical psychologist at the School of Health and Social Science at University of Edinburgh, discuss. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Dianne McGregor

Choirs, Sexual Assault on University Campuses, Retirement, Losing Your Belongings Aug 28, 2020

Presented by Jenni Murray. A 16 year-old young woman looking at universities came across the St Andrews Survivors page on Instagram with more than 100 stories of sexual assault. She only read a couple but consequently wiped St Andrews off her potential university list. Her mother, a Woman’s Hour listener, wrote to us to saying she felt universities are not doing enough to address this problem, and was concerned with the impact this could have on young women going to university. Jenni is joined by Sara Khan, NUS Vice President for Liberation and Equality for an update on a problem that has been raised many times in the last few years. How successful have universities been in addressing this? What singing can do for your mental health? We hear how much some listeners are missing being part of choirs, and also from those who have been finding alternative ways to sing as a group online and even outdoors. Jenni discusses the issues with listener Carolyn Acton, Sandra Colston, MD Funky Choir MD and Liesbeth Tip Clinical psychologist at the School of Health and Social Science at University of Edinburgh. Listener Jan Courtney describes her experience of retiring and finding it hard to adjust to her new life, and describes meeting “juicy crones” –other women of a certain age who are having adventures and doing extraordinary things. Listener, Eve, lost all of her belongings when she was a student. She would like to know how other people cope when it happens to them. She joins Jenni, along with Pat Plumbridge and Sue Hepworth, to discuss what was lost, how they came to terms with this, the items they miss and how the experience has shaped their attitude to possessions. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

LISTENER WEEK: Writing about your job. The evolution of the buggy. Community quilting. Aug 27, 2020

LISTENER WEEK: Josie Channer and Teresa Devereux are both listeners who felt that they had to write novels about what they’d experienced through their work. Josie’s written Diary of a Prison Officer and Teresa’s based her novel Broken Lives on what she saw and heard as a social worker. They tell Jane about how they published their work and what they hope readers will get out of their books. Sarah Fraser is an associate professor at Princess Nourah Bint University in Riyadh, the largest female-only university in the world. She got in touch because she wanted to talk about the supportive and collaborative there,. She believes that despite most people believing the opposite, a country like Saudi Arabia does not oppress women. Rothna Begum, senior women's rights researcher at Human Rights Watch with focus on the Middle East adds her perspective. Plus the evolution of the pushchair and the joys of community quilting. Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Beverley Purcell

Grave Tending, Sisterhood, Second Generation Young Women and mental health; Accents. Aug 26, 2020

Marva Yates who lives in London got in touch because she wanted us to talk about the importance of sisterhood throughout history... Marva and her sister Sabrina – who currently lives in New York - started the @sistoryuntold podcast about it during lockdown. They wanted not only to learn more about those often forgotten women of history but to show that support, both good and bad, from the “sisterhood” can be a crucial part of success. Shortly after turning 50, Jo Hogger was made redundant from her corporate career. Her passion for flowers and personal and professional experiences of bereavement led her to a complete career change and she started a business tending graves and creating beautiful flowers to put on them. She explains the reasons people want this type of service, the joy she gains from it, and the meaning behind the flowers she chooses. Until very recently, very few people felt free to discuss their mental health. Even now, it’s not easy for everyone – and Listener Rochelle Fernando who is 29, and Sri-Lankan-British, wanted the programme to talk about young women of colour and mental health. She spoke to our reporter Olivia Cope, alongside Victoria Sanusi, a freelance journalist who’s 26 and Nigerian-British. Rochelle explained why she wanted the topic to be explored. Jessica, originally from Leeds, but now in Manchester, got in touch and wanted to speak to us about accents and was surprised that some of us still have to ‘posh up’ a bit to get on with our jobs. Have you had to deliberately change or kept your accent? Jane is joined by listeners Karen Jenkins, Bethan John and Dr. Melanie Reynolds, and Professor Deviyani Sharma, Professor of Socio-linguistics with the School of Languages, Linguistics and Film at Queen Mary University of London. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Listener Week: Women & Walking, Bulimia, Becoming a Mother Unexpectedly Aug 26, 2020

Would you consider walking 880 miles around the Wales Coastal Path? Two listeners, Helen and Rhian, tell us about their experiences, and they are joined by academic Kerri Andrews, author of Wanderers: A History of Women Walking. Daisy Leigh was 23 when she felt an unfamiliar kicking sensation and was shocked to discover she was 30 weerks pregnant. She had just two months to prepare, mentally and practically, for becoming a mother. Nine months on, she says her daughter is the best thing that's ever happened to her, and she'll be talking about the challenges and pressures of becoming a young mum when her career was taking off. Helen got in touch wanting to highlight bulimia, which she feels is often overshadowed by anorexia. She talks about her experience with the condition and how difficult it is, particularly as her weight is a healthy one. Also on the programme is Associate Prof Lucy Serpell, Dept of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology at UCL, who also treats bulimia patients in a clinical capacity. Lockdown inspired listener Suzanne to start her own business. Furloughed from her work as a child advocate, she had time to return to developing her hat-making skills using recycled 100% wool. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Parenting Podcast: Nits Aug 25, 2020

All you need to know about nits

Listener Week 2020 - paddlesport; the Pill; Nits; Dating over 45; Aug 24, 2020

Women and Paddling: kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, rafting what are the attractions, what is involved, how can paddle sports help physical and mental health and where are women in these water sports? Following an email from a Woman’s Hour Listener who is passionate about women paddling, Jane speaks to Cadi Lambert, who runs the ShePaddles programme for British Canoeing, and Emma Kitchen, who has started training to be a coach to help people improve their paddle skills and is returning to paddling after some tough years in her personal life and has found new confidence from being on the water. It’s more than 50 years since the contraceptive Pill became widely available in the UK. Several listeners have written in with questions, some concerned about its possible side effects. Can you take the Pill and stop your period? Does the Pill make you gain weight? Should there be a seven day break if you are using it? Julia Hogan, lead contraceptive and sexual health nurse for Marie Stopes, and Dr Rebecca French, Associate Professor of Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, answer your questions and burst some myths. Do we all need to talk more about nits? Listener Louise Somerville thinks so. She’s been a parent for 30 years with three children, and she feels that increasingly schools are inconsistent in how much they help parents deal with nits and that clear advice is lacking. So today we ask how best to deal with nits and head lice, and the stigma attached, and why it matters. With entomologist Richard Jones and Joanna Ibarra from Community Hygiene Concern. Elizabeth got in touch with us about her experience with dating apps when you’re over the age of 45, after finding they weren’t quite what she expected. Dr Martin Graff researches the online dating world and joins us to advise Clare how to best navigate it. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Julia Hogan Interviewed Guest: Dr Rebecca French Interviewed Guest: Cadi Lambert Interviewed Guest: Emma Kitchen Interviewed Guest: Louise Somerville Interviewed Guest: Richard Jones Interviewed Guest: Joanna Ibarra Interviewed Guest: Dr Martin Graff

Can sex offenders change? Camilla Thurlow, Cook the perfect with Ravinder Bhogal, Childless older women Aug 22, 2020

Becky's father went to prison for sex offences against children. For a BBC documentary, Can Sex Offenders Change?, Becky met three sex offenders who didn’t go to jail, but had rehabilitation treatment in the community. We hear from Becky and Professor Belinda Whynder, Research Director Centre for Crime Offending, Prevention and Engagement at Nottingham Trent University and a co-founder of the charity Safer Living Foundation. Former Love Island contestant Camilla Thurlow worked in explosive ordinance disposal, finding and clearing landmines in some of the world’s most dangerous and inhospitable places. She has written a book - Not the Type – Finding my place in the real world. The Office for National Statistics has estimated that the number of women who reach 80 without children will almost triple in the next 25 years. As a result demand for paid care in nursing homes is expected to increase sharply. Why is the focus on childless women and not men, and how is the data being reported in the media? Jody Day is a psychotherapist, author and founder of Gateway Women, a global organisation for women who are involuntarily childless. Ravinder Bhogal is a chef and restaurateur whose book, Jikoni is subtitled as proudly inauthentic recipes from an immigrant kitchen. She tells Jenni how to Cook the Perfect Coffee Rasgullas with Mascarpone Ice Cream and Espresso Caramel. Sixteen year old Rhea from Shetland put out an appeal using an anonymous app, to anyone who wanted to share their personal stories about sexual violence. She received more than 60 responses within 24 hours. Rhea, and Lisa Ward, manager of Rape Crisis Shetland, talk about what those stories say about sexual violence within rural areas. Mary Stewart has been called one of the great British storytellers of the 20th century. Her 1954 best-seller Madame, Will You Talk? has been dramatised in two parts for Radio 4. We speak to the writers Jane Casey and Harriet Evans who are both fans of her work. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Author Wendy Holden. Sexual violence in rural areas. How to make time for yourself Aug 21, 2020

Marion ‘Crawfie’ Crawford was a young Scottish trainee teacher who wanted to educate children in the slums of Edinburgh but ended up as governess to a young Princess Elizabeth and her sister Margaret. How much did she influence and shape their lives? Writer Wendy Holden on how she's brought her story to life, in a new novel ‘The Governess: She Came from Nothing and Raised a Queen ’. Earlier this year Rhea, a sixteen year old girl from Shetland, put out an appeal using an anonymous app, to anyone who wanted to share their personal stories about sexual violence. Within 24 hours she'd had more than 60 responses. Rhea, and Lisa Ward, manager of Rape Crisis Shetland, talk about what those stories say about where they live. And in the next in our summer series of How to guides, we discuss the art of stepping off the treadmill and carving out time for yourself. How can you minimise feelings of guilt and maximise bliss moments? What are the best ways to politely but firmly say no? Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Beverley Purcell Guest; Wendy Holden Guest; Deborah Joseph Guest; Louise Pentland Guest; Celia Dodd

Miriam Margolyes; Elaine Feeney; Cook the Perfect with Ravinder Bhogal. Aug 20, 2020

Described as a ‘tender portrayal of experiencing dementia in lockdown’ Watching Rosie is an online play starring Miriam Margolyes. Portraying grandmother Alice, and Louise Coulthard, her granddaughter Rosie, Miriam joins Jenni to discuss the bond between the two as they face change and confusion. Sinead Hynes is a tough, driven, funny young property developer with terrifying secret. No one knows it; not her fellow patients in hospital, and certainly not her family. She’s only confided in a shiny magpie and Google! Poet Elaine Feeney talks to Jenni about her debut novel As You Were – all about the secrets we hold, the burdens we carry and why we all need people to lean on. The Care Quality Commission have described the maternity care at Basildon University Hospital as ‘inadequate’, after a whistleblower shared concerns for patient safety. Jenni is joined by BBC Look East’s Suzie Fowler-Watt, who has been following the story, and Lauren, who has had maternity care at the hospital and is part of a support group for women who’ve lost babies at the hospital. Chef and restaurateur Ravinder Bhogal's new book Jikoni celebrates immigrant food and its ability to adapt. Her recipes span flavours and culinary traditions from India, Kenya, Asia and Britain. She tells the stories of women who are marginalised and whose stories have been erased - stories she refers to as feminist gospels. She talks to Jenni about how to Cook the Perfect Coffee Rasgullas with Mascarpone Ice Cream and Espresso Caramel. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Woman's Hour Parenting Podcast Aug 19, 2020

Advice on supporting your child's mental health during the Coronavirus pandemic

Ellen DeGeneres, crime writer Denise Mina and Kids in Crisis After Covid Aug 19, 2020

Three producers on the Ellen DeGeneres Show in the US have been fired amid allegations of misconduct and sexual harassment and reports that it was a "toxic workplace". As one of the highest paid and popular stars on TV Ellen ends her talk show with the catch phrase "be kind to one another". What is the impact on her popularity and reputation following the sackings? Jenni speaks to New York-based journalist and broadcaster Jane Mulkerrins. At the age of 23, Camilla Thurlow was accepted by the HALO Trust to train in explosive ordinance disposal, finding and clearing landmines in some of the world’s most dangerous and inhospitable places. She then signed up for hit TV show, Love Island, where she came second. She describes it as the scariest thing she could have done. She subsequently impressed viewers in Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, and has now written a book - Not the Type – Finding my place in the real world, about learning to confront her anxieties in a world dominated by celebrity culture. She now sits on the board of Indigo Volunteers and has a close relationship with the charity Choose Love/Help Refugees. Coronavirus and the lockdown have changed things for everyone – but what kind of lasting impact will it have on the mental health of children? Jenni is joined by the Head of See, Hear Respond at Barnardo’s, Amanda Naylor and the Child Psychologist, Angharad Rudkin who explain how best to support children in the days ahead. Denise Mina is the award-winning Scottish crime writer of novels including the Garnethill trilogy and The Long Drop. She joins Jenni to discuss her latest thriller – the Less Dead – which is inspired by real life murders of sex workers in Glasgow in the 1990s. Nanette Pollock – former DCI who worked in in Glasgow CID at the time of the murders - will describe her experience of the policing of sex workers in the city at that time, the murders, and an amazing cinematic meeting in the Ballroom at a central Glasgow hotel when 400 street sex workers met to discuss the murders and their personal safety Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Caroline Donne Interviewed guest: Jane Mulkerrins Interviewed guest: Amanda Naylor Interviewed guest: Angharad Rudkin Interviewed guest: Denise Mina Interviewed guest: Nanette Pollock

Can sex offenders change? Oestrogen and Covid; Childless older women Aug 18, 2020

Becky’s father was convicted of sex offences against children and sent to prison. He has since been released but while in prison he undertook a sex offender rehabilitation programme. For a BBC documentary Can Sex Offenders Change? Becky meets a growing number of sex offenders who have not been sent to prison, and have received treatment in the community. She tries to understand what drove them to commit these horrific crimes, whilst seeing what treatment is available to stop them committing any more. She joins Jane to discuss along with Professor Belinda Winder, Research Director Centre for Crime Offending, Prevention and Engagement at Nottingham Trent University and a co-founder of the charity Safer Living Foundation. Scientists across the world are keen to find out if the female hormone oestrogen could offer protection against the worst symptoms of Covid-19. Data gathered from the Zoe Covid app created with Kings College London seems to suggest that younger women are at lower risk of developing symptoms but hormone replacement therapy taken by menopausal women doesn’t offer the same protection. We hear from menopause expert Dr Louise Newson who’s one of the co-authors of the new study. The Office for National Statistics has estimated that the number of women who get to 80 without children will almost triple in the next 25 years. As a result demand for paid care in nursing homes is expected to increase sharply. Why is the focus on childless women and not men, and how is the data being reported in the media? Jody Day is a psychotherapist, author and founder of Gateway Women, a global organisation for women who are involuntarily childless. Women in comedy are calling for a sexual harassment protocol after what they say are 'decades of abuse'. Stand-up comedian, writer and satirist Kiri Pritchard-Mclean and comedian and writer Nina Milligan join Jane to explain why they want clubs to adopt a kite mark-style system, rather than having to rely on whisper networks in the industry. Presented by Jane Garvey Produced by Sarah Crawley

Women's rights in Afghanistan, Fleet street pioneer Julie Welch, Infertility, The works of Mary Stewart Aug 17, 2020

Fawzia Koofi, a member of Afghanistan's peace negotiating team survived an assassination attempt on Friday. This come after the Afghan government announced a new council to safeguard women's rights and interests, amid fears peace talks with the Taliban could lead to the loss of hard-won gains. Mahjooba Nowrouzi from the BBC Afghan Service explains. In 1973, Julie Welch became the first woman to report on football for a British national newspaper. In her new book 'The Fleet Street Girls' she talks about her own battles for recognition, and the experiences of other female trailblazing journalists who also took on the male-dominated world of Fleet Street. Mary Stewart has been called one of the great British storytellers of the 20th century. The author who has sold over 5 million books is said to have invented the romantic suspense novel. Her 1954 best-seller Madame, Will You Talk? has been dramatised in two parts for Radio 4. We speak to the writers Jane Casey and Harriet Evans who are both fans of her work. Kat Francois is a performance poet and playwright. In coming to terms with her own infertility she came to the realisation that in all communities, but especially in black communities, infertility can be a taboo subject. She spoke to other women who shared similar experiences and weaved their stories along with her own into a performance piece. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

The codebreaking sisters. Women in elite sport. How female DJs are adapting during lockdown Aug 15, 2020

On VJ Day we hear from Patricia and Jean Owtram who both served their country while their father was a prisoner of war in the Far East. We discuss the findings of the BBC Sport Elite British Sportswomen's survey 2020 published this week. Karen Maine tells us about her new film Yes God, Yes about 16 year old Alice growing up a Catholic and attending Catholic school in the early noughties in the American mid-west. Plus as President Alexander Lukashenko is re-elected in Belarus, we talk about the woman who challenged him. And with nightlife on pause during lockdown how have female DJs been adapting? Presenter Jenni Murray Producer Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor Beverley Purcell GUEST Susannah Townsend GUEST; Priyanaz Chatterji GUEST; Tammy Parlour GUEST; Veronika Tsepkalo GUEST; DJ Flight GUEST; Ngaio Anyia GUEST; Karen Maine

Codebreaking Sisters, Food and Climate Change, How to Handle Conflict Aug 14, 2020

To mark VJ Day 75 we’ll be speaking to two sisters, Patricia and Jean Owtram whose father was a prisoner of war in the Far East. At the time both sisters were serving their country. They are the last two living sisters to have signed the official secrets act in WW2. Patricia received a Legion of Honour for her interception of enigma code for Bletchley park as a WREN tapping into German shipping radio while Jean was a code & cipher officer in Egypt and Italy supporting secret agents and partisans fighting the Nazis. Now aged 97 & 94 they have collaborated on a book, Codebreaking Sisters, Our Secret War. They acknowledge that the war changed their lives “instead of just marrying, I went to university and then journalism before being a BBC TV producer” remembers Pat. And Jean says: “Girls from our class were destined to live a very narrow existence, focused on husband and children. The war gave us broader horizons and bigger adventures. I believe we have both been more useful to the world because of it.” How can you choose a planet-friendly sandwich? And how bad is it for an apple to travel from the other side of the world to get to your fruit bowl? Professor Sarah Bridle is part astrophysicist, part food-enthusiast, who wanted to know the environmental cost of her lunch. Much of the data was complex – so she’s simplified it in her book Food and Climate Change: Without the Hot Air which includes the greenhouse gases created by growing, harvesting, transporting and cooking what we eat, as well as the food itself. She’d like to see labelling of air-freighted foods in supermarkets to give consumers a better understanding of the impact of our diet on the planet. Throughout the summer, Woman’s Hour is offering ‘How To’ guides for some of life’s biggest questions. Today, we explore the best way to handle conflict and tension – whether it’s at home, with friends and family, at work or in public. What’s the best way to get your point across without letting your emotions overwhelm you? Ama Afrifa-Tchie is the Head of Culture & Wellbeing at Mental Health First Aid England. Charly Lester is a dating expert and freelance journalist. Jessamy Hibberd is a chartered clinical psychologist. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Women DJs in lockdown Aug 13, 2020

With nightlife on pause during lockdown how have DJs been adapting? DJ Flight has been at the forefront of drum and bass for over two decades. Signed to Goldie’s label Metalheadz, she’s played all over the world and is founder of EQ50, a project aimed at improving gender equality in drum and bass. Ngaio Anyia is a singer and DJ from Bristol who runs Booty Bass, a collective who offer DJ lessons for women. Jenni talks to them about livestreams and how their work has changed with COVID-19. With clubs closed, is it time to make the industry more gender balanced… and will it actually happen? Students all over the country are protesting about how their work will be graded for GCSEs and A-Levels after exams were cancelled because of Covid. It’s even worse for home-educated young people. They’ll be getting no grades at all for all their efforts because grades are allocated by schools. Belarus had elections on Sunday. The man who’s been President for 26 years (since 1994), President Alexander Lukashenko, got in again. A woman called Svetlana Tikhanovskaya challenged him in the election. She’s a stay-at-home mum and she told a crowd recently that she’d much prefer to be frying cutlets than run for President. She’s now left Belarus for safety reasons, saying she doesn’t agree with the election result. During her election campaigning two women have been by her side. One of them is Veronika Tsepkalo who’s also left Belarus. BBC Moscow Correspondent, Sarah Rainsford joins Jenni to discuss. We’ve been talking to women about their scars and skin, how they feel about them and how the reactions of others has shaped their lives. Today, Aimee who lives with psoriasis. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Alison Sauer Interviewed Guest: Jo Merrett Interviewed Guest: Veronika Tsepkalo Interviewed Guest: Sarah Rainsford Reporter: Ena Miller Interviewed Guest: DJ Flight Interviewed Guest: Ngaio Anyia

Barrister Alexandra Wilson. The new breed of "Femtech" companies. Kamala Harris Vice-President nominee Aug 12, 2020

Alexandra Wilson on her new book “In Black and White”. The story of breaking down barriers of race and class to become a barrister. She explains how losing a very close family friend to knife crime made her pursue a career in law and how she has overcome her family’s fears of becoming “part of the system” Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee for President in this year’s US elections has finally named his running mate as Kamala Harris. Senator for California, she was Biden’s former rival for the Democratic nomination and will be the first woman of colour to be nominated for national office by a major political party. Kelly Dittmar, Director of Research at the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University, and Kimberly Peeler-Allen, co-founder of Higher Heights, an organisation supporting Black women into elected office, discuss the impact and reaction to her appointment. Plus we hear all about latest female technology firms - also know as Femtechs. Offering everything from period tracking apps to cooling menopausal bracelets - can they help women have more control over their bodies and their health? And the female authors looking to reclaim their name. Presenter Jenni Murray Producer Beverley Purcell Photo Credit; Laurie Lewis. Guest Alexandra Wilson Guest Berenice Magistretti Guest Billie Quinlan Guest Kimberly Peeler-allen Guest Kelly Dittmar

Female Refugees, Karen Maine director of Yes God, Yes, Women and their Scars Aug 11, 2020

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for Britain and France to work together to stop migrant boats crossing the Channel to Dover. On Friday a record number of unaccompanied migrant children arrived in the UK. The 23 youths were taken into the care of Kent County Council, on top of the 70 who arrived in July. According to the latest Home Office Statistics 90% of young (under 18) unaccompanied refugees who come in to the UK every year are male. What happens to the ten percent who are female? We hear from Dinah Beckett from Migration Yorkshire and Sharon Pearson who’s fostered Elsa. Yes God, Yes is a new film about 16 year old Alice growing up a Catholic and attending Catholic school in the early noughties in Midwest America During a chat on AOL she discovers masturbation and is overwhelmed with guilt. Seeking redemption, she attends a religious retreat to try and suppress her urges. Karen Maine, is the director.. Part of our series about women and scars: we meet Laura who is 27 – she’s a care worker from Caerphilly in South Wales and she is a burns survivor. In 1920, a hundred years ago, the American Congress passed the 19th Amendment which gave women in the United States the right to vote. There had been an active and vociferous suffragette movement, led by some well known names – Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B Anthony. The name of Lucy Stone is less familiar. She wanted votes for all, regardless of sex or race. Moira Hickey went to her birthplace, West Brookfield, Massachusetts in 2018 to join the celebration of the bicentenary of Lucy Stone’s birth. Presenter: Jenni Murray Reporter: Ena Miller Reporter: Moira Hickey Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Women and unemployment; Daisy Johnson; BBC Elite Women's Sport Survey 2020 Aug 10, 2020

Presented by Jenni Murray. Every few days we hear of more jobs going. The Bank of England said at the end of last week that unemployment is likely to hit 2.5 million this year. That means the jobless total would almost double by Christmas. Tonight there’s a Channel 4 documentary series starting which focuses on a job centre in Leeds and the people who use it. Jenni is joined by Olivia, who is a single mother mum and unemployed, Jan Baxter, who works at the jobcentre in Leeds and Helen Barnard, Acting Director of Joseph Rowntree Foundation. In Daisy Johnson’s novel Sisters July and September have an uncannily close relationship and one is more powerful than the other. Their mother struggles to cope and when things come to a head after a nasty incident at school they flee to a house in Yorkshire which turns out not to be the refuge they needed. Jenni talks to Daisy Johnson about horror, adolescence and the relationship between the two. The BBC Elite British Sportswomen's Survey was sent to 1,068 women in 39 different sports and received 543 responses. The survey covers trolling; funding and impact of Coronavirus; Periods and the Pill; Racism; Sexism; Abortion and Family Planning; Mental Health. Jenni discusses the findings with Becky Grey, BBC Sports reporter, Susannah Townsend, Gold medal hockey player, Priyanaz Chatterji, Scottish cricketer for Scottish Women’s Team and Tammy Parlour, CEO of Women Sport’s Trust. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Karen Dalziel

Zadie Smith, Baby banks, Pat Hume, Irish tampon ad, Victoria Cilliers, Kids against plastic Aug 08, 2020

The multi award winning writer Zadie Smith on 'Intimations', a collection of personal essays about lockdown. Photo courtesy of Dominique Nabokov. The rise in families with children under 5 needing help from baby banks has risen significantly since the pandemic began. We hear from Lauren Elrick who has a fifteen month old daughter and uses Abernecessities in Aberdeenshire. Sophia Parker, chief executive of Little Village baby bank in London and Tracy Thorn, an NHS family nurse. A television tampon advert has been banned in Ireland for causing widespread offence. Alexandra Ryan, CEO of Goss Media, and the radio presenter and former doctor Ciara Kelly discuss. Victoria Cilliers’ story made headlines in 2015, when it emerged her husband had tried to kill her by tampering with her parachute. Against all odds, she survived. After two trials he was sentenced to 18 years on two counts of attempted murder. Now she's written a book called 'I Survived'. At the funeral service of John Hume, the Northern Irish politician and Nobel Prize winner, it was said that 'when the history of Ireland is written, if Pat Hume's name is not beside John's, it will be incomplete history'. Pat, his wife, had been at his side during the Troubles, during peace, and his years of living with dementia. Jenni hears from Eimear O'Callaghan, former BBC News Editor, and Monica McWilliams, Emeritus Professor at Ulster University. Teenage sisters, Ella and Amy Meek are the founders of Kids Against Plastic. This week they were speaking at online climate change forum, hosted by the all-electric Formula E race Team Envision Virgin Racing. They told us about their concerns about the rise in single plastic use, and how we can all be plastic clever. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Standing Up For Your Mate, Victoria Cilliers, Black Businesswomen Aug 07, 2020

Would you stand up for your mate if she was being discriminated against? Would you stick up for her, even if it caused you problems? Today we discuss how to be a good ally. Whether it’s racism, sexism or homophobia what’s the best way to speak up and support your friends? We're joined by Chloe Laws from Glamour Magazine, Richie Brave who presents Brave Conversations on BBC 1Xtra, and Danielle Dash who's a freelance writer. Victoria Cilliers’ story made headlines in 2015. We heard how her husband tried to kill her by tampering with her parachute. Against all odds, she survived. After two trials, and the world’s press scrutinising their relationship, he was sentenced to 18 years on two counts of attempted murder. Now she's written a book called 'I Survived'. We chat to two Black businesswomen about their successes and challenges. They share their advice about setting up your own business. They are Rose Adkins Hulse, Founder & CEO of ScreenHits TV and Shalom Lloyd, Founder & MD of Naturally Tribal.

Zadie Smith, Women and their Scars, Xuefei Yang and Maternity Care Aug 06, 2020

Zadie Smith’s newest book, ‘Intimations’, was written during the early months of lockdown. It is a series of personal essays reflecting on the unprecedented situation of a worldwide pandemic, hoping to provoke readers to reflect on what has happened and what might come next. Maternity care is to be the first focus of an independent new panel set up by the Health and Social Care Committee to give ratings to pledges made by the government. Ros Bragg from Maternity Action talks about what she would expect to be looked at, and the Chair of the new panel, Dame Jane Dacre, Professor of Medical Edcation at University College London, explains how patients’ experience will form a part of this evaluation. In a new series we’re talking to women about their scars. They all talk about physical and emotional pain and the business of having to deal with other people’s reactions on a day to day basis and of coming to terms with the skin they are in. Today, Emily’s story. Xuefei Yang is one of the world’s leading classical guitarists. Born in China, she started playing guitar aged seven, less than a decade after the end of the cultural revolution at a time when guitars were not well known in the country. By aged 10 she had already given her first public appearance. She toured the world as a schoolgirl and has now performed in over 50 countries. Her latest album, Sketches of China, draws from over 2000 years of Chinese culture and music. Making it has been a long-held dream, requiring transposing traditional music for the guitar to increase the repertoire for her instrument. She talks to Jenni about the stories behind the album, the story of the kidnapped intellectual woman Wenji Cai during the Han Dynasty and why it’s important to her to celebrate Chinese culture now.

Baby banks, Mercury prize nominee Georgia, Pat Hume, Author Luan Goldie Aug 05, 2020

The Duchess of Cambridge has spearheaded a campaign to persuade retailers to donate items to baby banks around the UK. New figures from the three big charities – Baby Basics, Little Village and AberNecessities have published figures which show the number of families with children under five who’ve needed their help has risen significantly since the coronavirus crisis began. How are they managing to cope? We hear from Lauren Elrick who has a fifteen month old daughter and uses Abernecessities in Aberdeenshire. Sophia Parker, chief executive of Little Village Baby bank in London and Tracy Thorn, an NHS Family Nurse. For the first time in its 29-year history, female artists and female-fronted bands have outnumbered men on the shortlist for the Mercury Prize. Alongside Dua Lipa and Laura Marling, Georgia has been nominated for her second album ‘Seeking Thrills’. She joins Jenni to discuss her music, the transcendental power of the dancefloor, and being nominated for the Mercury Prize, 25 years after her father. This morning the funeral of John Hume, the Northern Irish politician and Nobel Prize winner will be held. He’s survived by his wife and professional partner, Pat. Who is the woman for whom the The John and Pat Hume Foundation for Peaceful Change and Reconciliation was formed? We hear from Eimear O'Callaghan, former BBC News Editor, and Monica McWilliams, Emeritus Professor at Ulster University. Luan Goldie has written a new novel called Homecoming. Set in London and Kenya over a period of twenty years, it is a story about love, family and friendship. Luan is a primary school teacher and her last book, Nightingale Point, was longlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction 2020 and she won the Costa Short Story Award in 2017. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Dianne McGregor

How to help your child spot fake news online Aug 04, 2020

Empowering schoolchildren to identify propaganda and distorted facts online

How to help your child spot fake news online Aug 04, 2020

How can you help your children to identify fake news on the internet? With the explosion of different platforms it can be hard to keep tabs on what they are watching. Jane finds out from the editor of 'The Week Junior', Anna Bassi, and Juliane von Reppert-Bismarck, the founder of 'Lie Detectors', an award-winning news literacy project which empowers schoolchildren to identify propaganda and distorted facts online. Matt Hancock announced on 30 July that we should move towards more ‘zoom medicine’, but how does this impact women and women’s health issues? We speak to Dr Clare Gerada who advocates for a mixed approach - she believes patients should always be given the choice between a face to face or online appointment Over the next two weeks we are talking to women about their scars. They all talk about physical and emotional pain, and the business of having to deal with other people’s reactions on a day-to-day basis. And they speak of coming to terms with the skin they are in. Ena Miller went to meet 49 year old Jayne in Shropshire and heard her story. Journalist Emma John is also a classical trained musician who’d fallen out of love with her violin. A chance trip to the American south introduces her to bluegrass music. It feels like a homecoming. Emma gives up her job and undertakes a musical quest into the Appalachian mountains. The result a book: Wayfaring Stranger: A musical Journey in the American South. Emma talks to Jane about the breakthroughs and difficulties of her musical journey Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Kirsty Starkey Interviewed Guest: Dr Clare Gerada Interviewed Guest: Anna Bassi Interviewed Guest: Juliane von Reppert-Bismarck Interviewed Guest: Jayne Reporter: Ena Miller Interviewed Guest: Emma John

Kids Against Plastic, Irish Tampon Ad, Zara McFarlane Aug 03, 2020

Listen to sisters Ella and Amy. They're behind Kids Against Plastic and talk to us about the world's reliance on plastic, especially single use plastic, and the way we just dump it. On Wednesday they're part of the online climate change forum called ‘Race Against Climate Change’. We go to Ireland to hear about a tampon TV ad which has caused a stir, so much so it's been taken off air. Some people have been offended by it due to its straightforward description of how you use them. Two Irish women defend the ad. They're Alexandra Ryan and Ciara Kelly. After Ireland we go to India to learn about a petition which urges the Indian Prime Minister to encourage men to do their fair share of housework. So far the petition has 70,000 signatures. And we go to the jazz and soul singer, Zara McFarlane who talks about her album Songs of An Unknown Tongue. She says that her latest single called Black Treasure is a "declaration, proclamation and celebration of black Britishness and womanhood."

Recovering after domestic abuse, Black women in music, Bicycle saddles Aug 01, 2020

We discuss the process of recovery after domestic abuse, the way that these relationships can stay with you but also how you can build a new life after. How do those who have survived abuse find their behaviour affected? What do they wish that their friends and family had understood? And how can friends and family can help? With Sue Penna, co-founder of Rockpool who deliver trauma-informed training programmes for those working with survivors of abuse, and Jennifer Gilmour, an author and advocate for women in abusive relationships, and founder of #AbuseTalk on twitter and the Abuse Talk podcast. The school summer holidays are underway across the UK – but this year they’re going to be a bit different. Thanks to coronavirus there’s a shortage of childcare and holiday clubs, helpful grandparents are mostly off-limits, parents are already exhausted from juggling home-working and home-school for four months, and teenagers are faced with another six weeks of restricted freedoms. So how are people planning to make it through to September? Joeli Brearley is the founder of Pregnant then Screwed, and Leann Cross is the director of Home Start Greenwich. Now that cycling may soon be on prescription and bikes are soaring in popularity due to the pandemic, how can women ensure they have a pain-free ride? Endurance cyclist and coach Jasmijn Muller talks about what she’s learned from years of serious pain, and specialist women’s cycling physio Bianca Broadbent gives her top troubleshooting tips for everything from saddles to lubricating cream, and not wearing pants. We explore what it’s like to be a black woman and work in the music industry. Jacqueline Springer is a music lecturer and journalist. Fleur East is an artist and songwriter who rose to fame after coming second on the X Factor in 2014. Lioness MC is a Grime rapper who has been making songs for over 10 years. In her book Sex Robots and Vegan Meat, journalist Jenny Kleeman explores seismic changes in four core areas of human experience: birth, food, sex and death. We hear about the implications of fully functioning artificial wombs and what sex robots mean for future relationships between men and women. In the next of our summer series of How to guides, we discuss how to end your relationship well. It seems lockdown has accelerated the process for some couples, with one UK-wide legal services firm reporting a 42% increase in enquiries about divorce between March and May. We offer you expert suggestions on managing the practical, emotional, legal and financial aspects of splitting up, with the least damage to you and others. Jenni is joined by family lawyer and mediator Rebekah Gershuny, FT Money digital editor Lucy Warwick-Ching, family therapist Joanne Hipplewith and founder of amicable Kate Daly. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Rosie Stopher

How to End a Relationship, Alice Oseman, Mother and Baby Units in Prison Jul 31, 2020

How to End a Relationship, Alice Oseman, Mother and Baby Units in Prison.

School exclusions; Women and running; Recovery after domestic violence Jul 30, 2020

New Department for Education figures out this morning revealed that 7,894 children were excluded from school in England during 2018/19. This is a slight decrease from the previous year, but otherwise the numbers have been increasing year on year since 2013. Although girls are less likely than boys to be formally excluded, a charity called Social Finance UK released research this month showing that girls are removed from school in such a way that they're often missed from official statistics - something the charity call 'the invisibly excluded'. But what effect does being expelled have on young people? And how are the ripples of exclusion felt by the teachers and parents of the children involved? Ultrarunner Beth Pascall has just completed one of the most gruelling Lake District fell challenges and set the fastest-known time for a woman: 65 miles in 14 hours 34 minutes - taking 50 minutes off the previous best. How did she go from her first cross-country run at six years old to a speciality distance of 100 miles? And how does she balance being a paediatrician with an inevitably demanding training regime? Jenni is also joined by Dr Nicola Rawlinson, a performance physiologist at Loughborough Sport who's researching female physiology and sports performance for her PhD. She discusses why women perform so well at ultra distances and how our bodies adapt to exercise. We discuss the process of recovery after domestic abuse, the way that these relationships can stay with you but also how you can build a new life after. How do those who have survived abuse find their behaviour affected? What do they wish that their friends and family had understood? And how can friends and family can help? With Sue Penna, co-founder of Rockpool who deliver trauma-informed training programmes for those working with survivors of abuse. Sue designed the Recovery Tool Kit programme, delivered to survivors of abuse across the UK, she’s also the author of The Recovery Tool Kit: A 12 week plan to support your journey from Domestic Abuse. And Jennifer Gilmour, an author and advocate for women in abusive relationships, and founder of #AbuseTalk on twitter (live every Wednesday) and the Abuse Talk podcast.

Black Women in the music industry; Premenstrual dysphoric disorder Jul 29, 2020

The Black Lives Matter movement has shone a light on a number of areas of society where discrimination and prejudice exists beneath the surface. Today we explore what it’s like to be a black woman and work in the music industry. Jacqueline Springer is a music lecturer and journalist. Fleur East is an artist and songwriter who rose to fame after coming second on the X Factor in 2014. Lioness MC is a Grime rapper who has been making songs for over 10 years. PMDD, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, an extreme form of premenstrual syndrome or PMS. affects up to one million women in the UK but is little known, and often misdiagnosed. The BBC has carried out its own research and heard the experiences of 4000 women across the UK. Nearly 3,000 said they’d had suicidal thoughts and around 1,500 self-harmed in the days before their period. To discuss diagnosis and treatment options we hear from Laura Murphy, Director of Education and Awareness for IAPMD (The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders) and Founder of Vicious Cycle : Making PMDD visible, and from Dr Paula Briggs, Consultant in Sexual and Reproductive Health at Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust. Presented by Jenni Murray Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Beverley Purcell

Finding a comfortable saddle; Nutrition and brain health; Jackie Clune Jul 28, 2020

We often take it for granted that cycling can make you feel a bit saddle sore. But that expectation masks the fact that many women experience real pain when cycling - due to a combination of inappropriate saddles, ill-fitting bikes and a lack of understanding by medical experts of the damage that can be done to the vulva. Now that cycling may soon be on prescription and bikes are soaring in popularity due to the pandemic, how can women ensure they have a pain-free ride? Endurance cyclist and coach Jasmijn Muller talks about what she’s learned from years of serious pain, and specialist women’s cycling physio Bianca Broadbent gives her top troubleshooting tips for everything from saddles to lubricating cream, and not wearing pants. The Chartered Counselling Psychologist and former Great British Bake Off Finalist, Kimberley Wilson, joins Jane to discuss her time working in a women’s prison, her mission to improve brain health with simple lifestyle and nutritional tips, while still enjoying an occasional slice of cake. Writer and performer Jackie Clune joins Jane to talk about her new novel I’m Just a Teenage Punchbag, a comic tale of menopause, grief and a disillusionment with motherhood.

Summer Holidays, Sex Robots and Artificial Wombs, Film Director Jessica Swale Jul 27, 2020

The school summer holidays are underway across the UK – but this year they’re going to be a bit different. Thanks to coronavirus there’s a shortage of childcare and holiday clubs, helpful grandparents are mostly off-limits, parents are already exhausted from juggling home-working and home-school for four months, and teenagers are faced with another six weeks of restricted freedoms. So how are people planning to make it through to September? In her book Sex Robots and Vegan Meat, journalist Jenny Kleeman explores seismic changes in four core areas of human experience: birth, food, sex and death. Jane will be talking to Jenny about the implications of fully functioning artificial wombs, what sex robots mean for future relationships between men and women, who the people are shaping the technological changes taking place and how soon these inventions will become an inevitable part of human life. Summerland is a new film set during WW2, featuring Alice a folklore investigator debunking myths using science to disprove the existence of magic. She lives a solitary life in a seaside cottage in Sussex but her way of life is turned upside when she has reluctantly to take in a young evacuee . Presenter: Jane Garvey Interviewed guest: Leann Cross Director, Home Start Greenwich Interviewed guest: Emma Thomas, CEO of Young Minds Interviewed guest: Jenny Kleeman Interviewed guest: Jessica Swale, film director Producer: Lucinda Montefiore

Kate Rusby, Women and high street job losses, Mary Trump, How to be a friend, Childfree by choice Jul 25, 2020

Known as The Barnsley Nightingale, the folk singer, Kate Rusby talks about her latest album of covers, and recording it with her husband and two young daughters. A number of high street retail stores have announced job losses. So many of the shop floor, customer facing jobs are done by women. Retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth, and Sue Prynn,deputy divisional officer for USDAW's southern division discuss the consequences of these lay-offs. In court in New York last week President Trump’s niece, Mary J Trump found out that a temporary restraining order on her book about her uncle was going to be lifted. She spoke about Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created The World’s Most Dangerous Man. In the next of our summer series of practical How to guides, how to be a good friend. The broadcaster and beauty expert Sali Hughes, the comedian Jenni Eclair whose new book is Older and Wider – A Survivor’s Guide to the Menopause and Radhika Sanghani, a freelance journalist and novelist discuss. The Australian chef, Lara Lee specialises in Indonesian cooking. She cooks the perfect sambal, which is a hot relish found on every Indonesian dinner table. Emma Gannon is a podcaster and writer. She’s now written her first novel. In ”Olive”- the central character is thirty three and, like her creator is childfree by choice. The gymnast Simone Biles is on the cover of American Vogue’s August 2020 issue, but critics have said the photoshoot highlights why there needs to be more diversity in the photography industry. The photographer Ola Adegoroye and Lazara Storm, who works as a commercial model and is now moving behind the scenes discuss. Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Dianne McGregor

Mary Trump: TikTok and parents; Social mobility and the creative industries Jul 24, 2020

In court in New York last week President Trump’s niece, Mary J Trump found out that a temporary restraining order on her book about her uncle was going to be lifted. She joins Jenni to talk about Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created The World’s Most Dangerous Man. Editor-in-chief of ELLE magazine and board member of the Social Mobility Commission, Farrah Storr, chats to Jenni about launching their first ever mentoring scheme to find the next generation of creatives. The September issue of the magazine is traditionally the big fashion issue. However, this year the magazine is shifting focus to what’s next and how to rebuild the fashion industry after the pandemic. For many households, Tiktok has been a go-to for distraction and entertainment during coronavirus. The video-sharing app has around 800 million active users around the world, but this week, the app is back in the news over concerns over links to the Chinese government regime. We speak to BBC World Service reporter and Tiktok user Sophia Smith-Galer, and journalist and mother of Tiktok users, Zoe Williams about what the app offers and how concerned parents should be. The novelist Josephine Cox has died at the age of 82. She wrote more than 60 books and sold over 20 million copies- Her works include Two Sisters, The Beachcomber and Her Father's Sins. She grew up in poverty in a cotton mill house in Blackburn in the 40s and 50s. She was one of 10 children, sleeping six to a bed. She spoke to Jenni in 2001 about the novel the Woman Who Left – based on her own experiences growing up in Blackburn. Presented by Jenni Murray Produced by Sarah Crawley Interviewed guest: Mary J Trump Interviewed guest: Farrah Storr Interviewed guest: Anya Interviewed guest: Maria Interviewed guest: Sophia Smith Galer Interviewed guest: Zoe Williams Interviewed guest: Josephine Cox

Kate Rusby, Frances Cha, Textile Factories Jul 23, 2020

The folk singer, Kate Rusby also has the nickname, The Barnsley Nightingale. Kate's latest album is covers of pop music you're bound to recognise, but in her own folksy, mellow way. She talks to us about why she did an album of covers, how she recorded it with her husband and girls, and why Susannah Hoff made her cry. Seoul in South Korea is known as the plastic surgery capital of the world. There were a million cosmetic procedures last year. Frances Cha, a former travel and culture editor, speaks to Jenni about her new novel ‘If I Had Your Face’ and how she researched it by visiting plastic surgeons and escort bars. We talk to the union, Community, about textile factories in Leicester and the recent concerns over low pay and the lack of social distancing in some of them. And we Cook The Perfect. Today it's with the Australian chef, Lara Lee. She specialises in Indonesian cooking, due to her family background. She shares recipes that have been passed down the generations. Today, she's cooking the perfect sambal, which is a hot relish found on every Indonesian dinner table.

Parenting Podcast: Rock Pools Jul 22, 2020

Heading to the British coast on holiday this year? The fascinating Heather Buttivant tells us what wonders we can find in the common rock pool, and how to interest kids in them.

How to be a good friend, Hairdresser tribunal case, Rock pools Jul 22, 2020

In the next of our summer series of practical How to guides, we talk about how to be a good friend. There will be tips on how to make, keep and politely shed friends at different stages in your life. We’ll discuss the tools you need to navigate tricky things like being over or underwhelmed by contact with your friends, and what to do if you don’t like your mate’s partner. Jane is joined by the broadcaster and beauty expert Sali Hughes, the comedian Jenni Eclair whose new book is Older and Wider – A Survivor’s Guide to the Menopause and Radhika Sanghani, a freelance journalist and novelist. A self-employed hairdresser has won the right to claim for notice, holiday and redundancy pay in a case that could affect other workers. An employment tribunal agreed that Meghan Gorman, should be entitled to the benefits of an employee at the salon where she had worked on a self-employed basis. We hear from Meghan and Beth Hale, a Partner specialising in Employment and Partnership law at CM Murray. The environmentalist and educator Heather Buttivant on what wonders you can find in the rockpools of the British coastline, and how to interest children in them. Her new book is called Rock Pool: Extraordinary Encounters Between the Tides : A Life -Long Fascination told in Twenty-Four Creatures Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Gender neutral parenting, Women and high street job losses, Author Emma Donoghue, Late diagnosis of autism Jul 21, 2020

As the neutral pronouns they/them start to enter the public consciousness, so too has the idea of gender-neutral parenting. Sarah Davies is a new mum to baby Quinn and talks about her experience of practicing gender-neutrality in a highly gendered society. Prof Melissa Hines from the University of Cambridge and Dr Brenda Scott from City University have both studied how children’s gender identity and behaviour develops over time – and are helping to separate what’s innate about our gender expression and what can be influenced by what our parents teach us. Marks & Spencer has said 950 jobs are at risk as part of plans to reduce store management and head office roles. It was already undergoing a transformation that included cutting costs and closing some stores. Job losses have already been announced at John Lewis, Boots and Debenhams. Jobs at Oasis and Warehouse went in April. So many of these shop-floor, customer-facing jobs are done by women. We explore the consequences of these lay-offs with retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth and Sue Prynn, deputy divisional officer for USDAW's southern division. Emma Donoghue, the author of the international bestseller Room, has set her latest novel The Pull of the Stars in Dublin in a maternity ward in 1918 at the height of the Great Flu. She explores the lives of a nurse, a volunteer and a doctor on the run, over the course of three days. She tells Jane why she’s mixed fictional with real characters. When Anna Wilson’s father, the man who has calmed her mother for over 40 years, becomes ill with cancer, things become extremely difficult. Her mother has always been ‘a little eccentric’ but in her seventies she becomes increasingly anxious and manic. Anna joins Jane to discuss her memoir, A Place for Everything, in which she talks about the difficulties of getting proper help for her mother, her mother’s late diagnosis of autism at the age of 72, her father’s illness and death and what it was like to care for her parents in their final years. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

Leaving friends on a night out; Emma Gannon; Black women and photography; Asylum seeking women in lockdown; Jul 20, 2020

Michaela Coel’s BBC drama ‘I May Destroy You’ has brought to light a number of interesting dilemmas, particularly within the realm of female friendships. Today we ask – is it okay to leave a friend on a night out? If a friend is too drunk or too disorderly to take care of themselves, but refuses to leave the venue or get in a cab, what can and should you do? Harriet Marsden is a freelance journalist. Toni Tone is a public speaker and podcast presenter. A new report by the SistersNotStrangers coalition, a group of 8 women’s organisations across the country, reveals the hardships experienced by asylum-seeking women in England and Wales during the pandemic. They say women have been homeless and hungry during the pandemic and are calling for ‘far-reaching’ reforms of the asylum process. Jane hears from Loraine Mponela who has sought asylum and Natasha Walter, Director of Women for Refugee Women and one of organisations behind the report. Emma Gannon’s heroine Olive is thirty three and childfree by choice. She has a dream job, close friends and her life might seem Instagram-perfect. But, things are complicated. Her relationships and friendships are changing and other people’s expectations are hemming her in. Adult life is not turning out as she thought it would and Olive needs to take stock. Writer, podcaster and now novelist Emma Gannon joins Jane. The gymnast Simone Biles is on the cover of Vogue’s August 2020 issue, but critics have said the photoshoot highlights why there needs to be more diversity in the photography industry. Jane discusses the issues of photographing black women, both in front of and behind the camera, with the photographer Ola Adegoroye and Lazara Storm, who works as a commercial model and is now moving behind the scenes. Presented by Jane Garvey Produced by Sarah Crawley Interviewed guest: Loraine Mponela Interviewed guest: Natasha Walter Interviewed guest: Emma Gannon Interviewed guest: Ola Adegoroye Interviewed guest: Lazara Storm Interviewed guest: Harriet Marsden Interviewed guest: Toni Tone

Karen Gibson 'Godmother of Gospel', the Price of Fast Fashion, Abuse in Gymnastics Jul 18, 2020

Karen Gibson aka “Godmother of Gospel” who shot to worldwide fame in 2018 after she appeared conducting The Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding of Harry and Meghan – tells me about the Choir’s new single Real Love. We hear from the writer Caitlin Moran about her new film based on her memoir How To Build A Girl. We discuss why Black people are more likely to end up in the mental health system and be sectioned with Sophie Corlett of the charity Mind, the producer Tobi Kyeremateng, the psychotherapist Dawn Estefan and the co-director of Listen Up Research Jahnine Davis. Housing benefit discrimination has been judged unlawful and in breach of the Equality Act. Research done by the charity Shelter shows that ‘No DSS’ policies put women and disabled people at a particular disadvantage, because they are more likely to receive housing benefit. We hear from Shelter’s solicitor Rose Arnall, and its chief executive Polly Neate. As British Gymnastics, the UK Governing Body for the sport of gymnastics announces an independent review following concerns raised by several British athletes about a culture of mistreatment and abuse, Sarah whose four daughters trained locally in gymnastics and experienced varying degrees of abuse and Nicole Pavier, a retired member of the senior England gymnastic squad, share their stories. And Prof Dilys Williams the Founder and Director of CSF (Centre for Sustainable Fashion and Aja Barber a personal stylist and style consultant whose work focuses on sustainability and ethics, discuss the real price of fast fashion? Presenter: Jenni Murray Producer: Rabeka Nurmahomed Editor: Louise Corley Interviewed Guest: Dawn Estefan Interviewed Guest: Toby Kyeremateng Interviewed Guest: Janine Davis Interviewed Guest: Sophie Corlett Interviewed Guest: Rose Arnall Interviewed Guest: Polly Neate Interviewed Guest: Karen Gibson Interviewed Guest: Nicole Pavier Interviewed Guest: AJa Barber Interviewed Guest: Professor Dilys Williams Interviewed Guest: Caitlin Moran

Caitlin Moran on How to Build a Girl. How to change your career. The school's fruit and veg scheme. Jul 17, 2020

How To Build A Girl – based on Caitlin Moran’s non-fiction memoir of the same name - has now been turned into a film It introduces us to Johanna Morrigan, a young Wolverhampton local who’s struggling to get to grips with the “incredible unfolding” that comes with puberty. The screenplay is written by the woman herself and was filmed in and around the City. She joins Jenni to talk about what it means to see her story on screen. Do you want to change your life for the better? This summer Woman’s Hour will be helping you work out how. How to change career, how to be a better friend, how to end your relationship well and how to make time for yourself, guilt-free. We’ll bring together women with expertise and experience to guide you through some of those tricky turning points and blocked paths. Listen out for the How To series over the next few weeks.. Today the key things you need to do to achieve both the immediate or the long term career change - identifying your transferable skills, working out the financial implications; weighing up the pro’s and con’s, polishing up your online presence – and taking the leap. Plus why England's School Fruit and Veg scheme will be back in September, thanks to mum turned campaigner Hannah Cameron McKenna . We'll hear about why she got involved in the campaign and from Zoe Griffiths a registered nutritionist about why eating more fruit and veg as a child is so important. Presenter Jenni Murray Producer Beverley Purcell Guest; Caitlin Moran Guest; Sarah Ellis Guest; Samantha Clarke Guest; Lucy Kellaway Guest; Hannah Cameron McKenna Guest; Zoe Griffiths

Black Women's Mental Health, Pensions, Natasha Gregson Wagner and Women on Remand Jul 16, 2020

The mental health charity, Mind is calling for the government to publish their White Paper on the Mental Health Act. They have been pushing for reforms so that fewer black people who are disproportionately represented, are sectioned and those that are sectioned treated with more dignity. So why is it that despite being among the top demographics to be diagnosed and four times more likely to be sectioned, the therapeutic space isn’t tailored towards black communities, and black women and girls in particular are left hanging in the balance? Jenni is joined by Sophie Corlett of Mind, producer Tobi Kyeremateng, the psychotherapist Dawn Estefan and Jahnine Davis a PhD researcher and Co-founder of Listen Up Research Company. The size of women’s pension pots appears to have fallen three times as much as men’s during the Coronavirus pandemic according to Profile Pensions, an impartial pensions advisor. Why is this and what can women do to ensure they have enough to live on when they retire? Jenni speaks to Baroness Ros Altmann, former Pensions Minister and to Romi Savova, Founder and Chief Executive of PensionBee. Natasha Gregson Wagner is the daughter of the American actress Natalie Wood, who began her career in film as a child actor and successfully transitioned to young adult roles. She was the recipient of four Golden Globes, and received three Academy Award nominations, and is best remembered for films including Splendour in the Grass, West Side Story and Gypsy. Natalie died suddenly by drowning off Catalina Island at the age of 43. Natasha has now produced a documentary and written the memoir More Than Love, An Intimate Portrait of My Mother, in which she describes their relationship and coming to terms with her grief, amid rumours and tabloid speculation surrounding her mother’s death. And a new report by The Howard League for Penal Reform is calling for major changes in the way that the courts make decisions about remanding women to prison in England and Wales. This is an area of the criminal justice system that they say has been overlooked. Jenni is joined by Dr Miranda Bevan, policy associate at the Howard League for Penal Reform and Val Castell, Chair of the Magistrates Association’s Adult Court Committee.

Karen Gibson of the Kingdom Choir; British Gymnastic Culture and Abuse Allegations; Novelist Meg Rosoff Jul 15, 2020

Karen Gibson aka 'Godmother of Gospel' shot to worldwide fame in 2018 after she appeared conducting The Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding of Harry and Meghan. She joins Jenni to talk about the choir's new single, her passion for gospel music and her recent experience on Celebrity Masterchef. British Gymnastics, the UK governing body for the sport of gymnastics, has announced that there will be an independent review following concerns raised by several British athletes about a culture of mistreatment and abuse. These allegations follow similar conversations that are happening in America because of a new Netflix documentary exploring the Larry Nassar scandal. So what fuels a culture of neglect? And what are people within the gymnastic community hoping will happen now? Jenni discusses with a woman called 'Sarah' who has four daughters, all of whom trained in gymnastics and experienced varying degrees of abuse, and Nicole Pavier, a retired member of the senior England gymnastic squad. A pair of glamorous strangers, a bunch of adolescent siblings and some distracted adults sharing a beach for one long hot summer. Sounds like the perfect recipe for sexual intrigue and disaster. Award-winning author Meg Rosoff joins Jenni to discuss her new novel The Great Godden. In her new book X+Y, A mathematician's manifesto for rethinking gender, Dr Eugenia Cheng – who has spent many years in the male-dominated field of mathematics – draws on insights from her own subject and personal experience to radically reframe the whole discussion around gender. Producer: Louise Corley Editor: Jenni Murray

Housing benefit discrimination; Trans-racial adoption; Fast fashion Jul 14, 2020

In a landmark ruling handed down at York County Court, housing benefit discrimination has been judged unlawful and in breach of the Equality Act. Research carried out by the charity Shelter shows that ‘No DSS’ policies put women and disabled people at a particular disadvantage, because they are more likely to receive housing benefit. The historic hearing took place virtually on Wednesday 1 July, involving 'Jane' (not her real name) a single mother of two. After a letting agent refused to rent any properties to her because she receives housing benefit, Jane contacted Shelter’s Strategic Litigation Team to take on her case. Jane Garvey discusses the issues with solicitor Rose Arnall, and Polly Neate, Chief Executive, Shelter. Nicole Chung was born severely premature, placed for adoption by her Korean parents and raised by a white family in a sheltered Oregon town in the US. From childhood she was told that her biological parents had made the ultimate sacrifice hoping that she would have a better life. She considered that she would always feel out of place as a trans-racial adoptee until she began to wonder if the story she had been told was the whole truth. All You Can Ever Know is her memoir of adoption. The writer and broadcaster Sali Hughes has been talking to women about objects in their lives that are important to them. The things we cherish aren’t always vintage, antique - or even expensive. Instead we treasure the stuff that reminds us of special people, particular times in our lives, or which stand for something important. Today it’s the turn of Rachel Eling. After the recent news of poor working conditions at a UK factory that could have helped fuel a local spike in COVID-19 cases in Leicester, we are reminded yet again of the consequences of fast fashion and the boom in online ordering. Campaigners and those in the industry are grasping the opportunity to raise awareness of the problems in global clothing production and are trying to change consumer habits. Jane is joined by Prof Dilys Williams, the founder and director of the Centre for Sustainable Fashion, and Aja Barber, a personal stylist and style consultant whose work focuses on sustainability and ethics.

United Arab Emirates launches its first ever mission to Mars. Author Dorothy Koomson. Visiting care homes Jul 13, 2020

Tomorrow the United Arab Emirates will launch its first ever mission to Mars. The probe, called Hope, aims to give the most complete picture yet of the Martian atmosphere – and will cement the UAE’s role as a space-exploring nation. We talk to Her Excellency Sarah Al-Miri Minister of State for Advanced Sciences and the Deputy Mission Project Manager for the Emirates Mars Mission and Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Theoretical physicist and presenter of The Life Scientific. Ghislaine Maxwell will appear in court in Manhattan on Tuesday charged with recruiting girls for Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse. She’s always denied any wrongdoing, and has also denied knowing that he was doing anything wrong. But if we looks back over the decades, news coverage of women accused of aiding and abetting men in their crimes, especially if sexual abuse is involved, has provoked some double-standard reactions. We hear from Baroness Helena Kennedy and Consultant Clinical & Forensic Psychologist Naomi Murphy Leading charities say relatives of care home residents with dementia should be treated as key workers. In a letter to the health secretary, they say that the care given by family members is "essential" to residents' mental and physical health. We hear from listener Sara McMahon about the impact not benig able to visit her dad has had on his condition. Plus Dorothy Koomson discusses her new novel All My Lies Are True, sequel to the bestselling The Ice Cream Girls, about two teenage girls accused of the murder of their teacher. Presenter Jane Garvey Producer Beverley Purcell Guest; Baroness Helena Kennedy Guest; Naomi Murphy Guest; Her Excellency Sarah Al-Miri Guest; Professor Jim Al-Khalili, Guest; Dorothy Koomson

The Cumberlege Review, Motherless daughters, Women in the video games industry Jul 11, 2020

A highly-critical review of three medical treatments for women in the UK found thousands of lives had been harmed because officials failed to listen to safety worries and often dismissed them as "women's problems". The Cumberlege Review examined responses to concerns about a hormone pregnancy test, a drug for epilepsy, and vaginal mesh. We spoke to the BBC Health correspondent Anna Collinson, and to Baroness Cumberlege about her review. And we heard reaction from Clare Pelham, CEO of the Epilepsy Society, and Mary McLaughlin, who has campaigned for women affected by pelvic mesh in Ireland. The video games sector makes up more than half of the UK’s entire entertainment market. Women are 50% of those who play but the number of women working in the industry is much lower. Jordan Erica Webber, a video games expert, Katie Goode, who makes VR games, and Abbey Plumb, a producer for a games company discussed their experiences of working in the video games industry. It’s 1957 and Jean Swinney, a journalist on a local paper in the London suburbs, is investigating a story about a virgin birth. As she gets closer to the people involved Jean’s lonely and dutiful life becomes more interesting and she experiences a miracle of her own. Clare Chambers’ book ‘Small Pleasures’ is her first for 10 years and it was an item on Woman’s Hour which sparked the idea. After the death of her mother, Emma Winterschladen has gone through what she calls ‘missed mum moments’ including graduating university, her first job and more recently her engagement. How do motherless daughters navigate these big moments without their mothers? Freelance Editor, writer & illustrator Emma Winterschladen and psychologist Anjula Mutanda discuss. Twenty year old student Abigail McGourlay is the winner of The Arts Society’s national Isolation Artwork competition. She told us about her winning self-portrait 'Brewing'. Presenter: Jane Garvey Producer: Dianne McGregor

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