Philippa Perry, Antisemitism, Undiagnosed children, Simone Pennant

Woman's Hour57mApril 30, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

This episode of Woman's Hour explores three powerful and interconnected themes: the rising tide of antisemitism in the UK, the personal and systemic challenges faced by families of children with undiagnosed genetic conditions, and the transformative power of representation and self-belief in the creative industries. The programme opens with a somber discussion on the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, highlighting the psychological toll on Jewish families and communities, with Debbie Fox of the Jewish Leadership Council sharing how fear has reshaped daily life and parenting. This is followed by a vibrant conversation with Philippa Perry, author of the new novel *Shrink Solves Murder*, where she reflects on her creative process, the joy of writing a detective story with a grumpy, authentic protagonist, and the importance of self-expression in later life. The episode then turns to the deeply moving story of Roscoe, a three-year-old with multiple undiagnosed conditions, and the vital role of SWAN nurses at Great Ormond Street Hospital in coordinating complex care and offering emotional and administrative support to overwhelmed families. Finally, Simone Pennant, founder of The TV Collective and recent BAFTA recipient, shares her journey of resilience, the impact of a 'saboteur voice' in marginalized creatives, and the importance of 'manifestation' through belief and action. Her story underscores the need for visibility, community, and purpose in overcoming systemic barriers. Key takeaways include: 1) The psychological impact of antisemitism is not just about fear of violence but a daily re-evaluation of safety and belonging; 2) For families of undiagnosed children, a dedicated SWAN nurse can be a lifeline, reducing the emotional and logistical burden of navigating a fragmented healthcare system; 3) True change in representation requires more than diversity quotas—it demands creating spaces where marginalized voices feel they belong and can bring their full creative selves; 4) Overcoming internalized self-doubt (

Key Takeaways
1

Antisemitism in the UK is now seen as a national security emergency, forcing Jewish families to constantly reassess their daily routines and sense of safety.

2

SWAN nurses play a critical role in coordinating care for children with undiagnosed conditions, acting as emotional anchors and administrative advocates for overwhelmed families.

3

The 'saboteur voice'—internalized self-doubt—is a major barrier for marginalized creatives, but can be overcome through community, coaching, and conscious belief in one's worth.

4

Manifestation is real not as magic, but as the result of consistent belief, action, and claiming your space in the world.

5

Representation in media must go beyond tokenism; it requires giving marginalized storytellers full agency and access to opportunities.

Chapters
0:00
17 min

The Impact of Antisemitic Violence on Jewish Families

An attack on Jews is an attack on British values, as we keep hearing. And it is an attack on the authority of the democratic state.

Highlight
17:33
29 min

Philippa Perry on Writing Her Debut Crime Novel

I wanted to be friends with Pat. I don't know what that says about me though.

Highlight
47:29
23 min

Supporting Families of Undiagnosed Children

He lights up and he runs over to her and he's so excited to see her. And he's just filled with so much joy.

Highlight
1:10:44
25 min

Simone Pennant on Manifestation, Belonging, and Breaking Through

You just claim it, you believe it and just... move towards it, it's amazing what can happen.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
You just claim it, you believe it and just... move towards it, it's amazing what can happen.
Simone Pennant56:29
Viral: 90.0
An attack on Jews is an attack on British values, as we keep hearing. And it is an attack on the authority of the democratic state.
Debbie Fox7:08
Viral: 85.0
The test now is do the streets belong to us as the public or do they belong to those who are willing to dominate with intimidation and violence?
Debbie Fox7:17
Viral: 82.0
Speakers

Host

Anita Rani

Guests

Debbie FoxPhilippa PerryAnne DewittLucy MichaelsTali DrumgoonSimone Pennant
Topics Discussed
antisemitism in the uk95%undocumented genetic conditions in children90%mental health and self-doubt in creatives88%representation in media85%healthcare coordination for rare diseases82%manifestation and belief80%parenting and emotional resilience80%creative writing and authorship75%
People & Brands

philippa perry

person

25xPositive

simone pennant

person

22xPositive

debbie fox

person

18xPositive

swan nurses

organization

15xPositive

shrink solves murder

book

12xPositive

great ormond street children's hospital

organization

12xPositive

anita rani

person

10xNeutral

tali drumgoon

person

10xPositive

woman's hour

media

10xNeutral

anne dewitt

person

8xPositive

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