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Inside Parliament: Fabio D’Andrea and Peter Andre warn of the hidden dangers of kids’ smartphones and social media – Another Way

Inside Parliament: Fabio D’Andrea and Peter Andre warn of the hidden dangers of kids’ smartphones and social media – Another Way

by | Sep 18, 2025 | Family, Featured

This summer, Lord John Nash and Joe Powell MP hosted a parliamentary screening of award-winning composer, pianist and director Fabio D’Andrea’s film “Another Way.” The film features the singer Peter Andre, and the event helped raise awareness of the dangers of teenage smartphone use by illustrating the devastating impact of bullying and youth suicide. The emotional video portrays Peter as Jack, the devastated father of a teenage boy, Josh, who has attempted to take his own life after being bullied at school.
It was an absolute honour to be in Parliament in the House of Commons for the screening of Fabio D’Andrea’s highly emotive short film “Another Way” starring Peter Andre. It truly is an incredible film that raises awareness of the impact of smartphones and social media on our children’s mental health—something that so many parents worry about. I felt very proud that our Sub Editor & Head of Social Causes, Teresa Parker, and I were there to represent BROOD Magazine and that BROOD will play a special part in helping to support this important campaign. Starting with this feature, we wanted to ask the people involved in this hugely important film and screening what they hope will come from the film’s release and the screening held in Parliament.
I asked those who were a part of this important day some questions about how “Another Way” has impacted and inspired them to make changes going forward.

peter andre and fabio d'andrea Another Way Campaign
Fabio D’Andrea and Peter Andre highlight the dangers of smartphones and social media for children © Piers Allardyce
Mark Saxby, Dr Emily Andre, Peter Andre, Fabio D’Andrea, Joe Powell MP, Teresa Parker, Deborah Morel, Lolo Stubbs<br /> Fabio D’Andrea and Peter Andre highlight the dangers of smartphones and social media for children
Pictured from left to right: Mark Saxby, Dr Emily Andre, Peter Andre, Fabio D’Andrea, Joe Powell MP, Teresa Parker, Deborah Morel, Lolo Stubbs. © Piers Allardyce

“Another Way grew from my concern about the growing impact of technology on young people. I wanted to tell that story through music and film in a way that feels relatable and truthful”

– Fabio D’Andrea

Another Way

Fabio D’Andrea

Fabio, what inspired you to create the film Another Way, and how do you hope it will impact the conversation around teen smartphone use and cyberbullying?

The inspiration for much of my music is rooted in day-to-day life—both its beauty and its hidden struggles. Another Way grew from my concern about the growing impact of technology on young people. I wanted to tell that story through music and film in a way that feels relatable and truthful. I’m proud that the video has already resonated across the political spectrum—being supported by MP Joe Powell, Lord Nash and Baroness Stroud—which shows how universal and urgent this issue is. My hope is that Another Way sparks more open conversations, not only in Parliament but also in schools and families, helping young people make better choices about how they use technology and how they treat one another online.

Fabio, your films often highlight key social issues, such as domestic abuse, mental health, and multiple sclerosis. What drives your passion for using your platform to raise awareness about these topics?

I’ve always believed that music is a powerful medium for storytelling. Composers throughout history have used their work to reflect the world around them, and I try to continue that tradition. Speaking to families who have lived through issues like domestic abuse or illness has shown me how deeply art can connect with lived experience. That’s what motivates me—the chance to give a voice to those stories and, hopefully, to foster understanding and change.

What do you hope will be the outcome of the parliamentary screening of Another Way, and what steps do you believe need to be taken to address the issues of teen smartphone use and cyberbullying?

The first step is awareness. Lord Nash’s recent bill amendment is an important move in the right direction, and I’m encouraged that many voices are asking for Another Way to be shown in schools and colleges. I would love to see that expanded much further. The real solution lies in education and dialogue—equipping children with the tools to make wiser decisions online, and ensuring parents and teachers feel empowered to guide them. Change won’t come from legislation alone; it will come from building a culture where respect and responsibility extend into the digital world.

Peter Andre

Peter, why was it so important for you to be a part of this film and did the fact that you have children of your own make this project even more important to you?

“As soon as I was aware of this project, I wanted to do it. Working with Fabio and playing Jack has been incredible, although tougher emotionally than I had predicted. I know there are many different families out there and different scenarios, and of course, anyone can have mental health problems. In teenage years, it can feel difficult to talk, and I know that as I’ve experienced it myself, but there are now the extra pressures of smartphones and social media. As a dad, this is something I am really aware of, and want to let teenagers know they are not alone.”

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PETER ANDRE & FABIO D'ANDREA

“In teenage years, it can feel difficult to talk, and I know that as I’ve experienced it myself, but there are now the extra pressures of smartphones and social media. As a dad, this is something I am really aware of, and want to let teenagers know they are not alone.” 

— Peter Andre

Joe Powell MP

Joe Powell MP, as the Member of Parliament for Kensington & Bayswater, and a father yourself, how important was hosting this event to you, and using your position as an MP to raise further awareness around this subject?

“I am very proud to have hosted this important event with Lord Nash. To bring together a key group of people, along with Fabio, who will be able to raise vital awareness of this issue and influence those who need to take action. Yes, we need government regulation, but we also need social media platforms to step up and take responsibility for the reality of what their profit-making products are doing to the mental health of our young people. Their success comes with responsibilities, and we need to see action from everyone on this important issue.”

“…we need government regulation, but we also need social media platforms to step up and take responsibility for the reality of what their profit-making products are doing to the mental health of our young people.”

— Joe Powell MP

Mark Saxby

Mark, what did you take away from the event in Parliament, and how does the work that you do impact children and parents on this subject?

“It was wonderful to be in a room with so many people passionate about making a change. There were lots of different approaches to tackling the issue of social media and children, but we all agreed that through collaboration, we can make a real difference. Our sessions in schools and with parents open eyes to the negative impact of social media—and how we can live more fulfilling lives if we’re not glued to our screens.”

Lord John Nash

Lord John Nash, why is it so important to you and society that changes are made and there are new laws brought in around social media and smartphones?

“The damage that social media and smartphones do to our children is now well evidenced. I am proposing an amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill to ban social media before the age of 16.”

Teresa Parker

Teresa, as the mum of two boys, how do you navigate the issue of smartphones?

My eldest son Ben, who is nearly 12, has had a phone since he went away to PGL camp two years ago, and it was for the very practical reason that we wanted him to be able to get in contact with us on the evening when they were allowed phone access if he wanted to. It speaks volumes that he did for the first two nights, then completely forgot about us because he made a load of new friends and “Bristol Ben” (his PGL name) left his phone in the bag on the shelf.

That sums up his attitude to his phone—he likes having one but often has too much going on to want to be on it all the time. We’ve had to keep an eye on use of social media and out-of-control WhatsApp groups, and have deleted the odd thing—but as long as we are actively parenting and thinking about safety, phone use in moderation in our house is ok.

The event with Fabio has really made me think about how many people have a role in making smartphones and social media safe, from social media providers, to government regulation, to parents and communities.

Practically, I think it would be hard to remove smartphone use completely, because Ben’s football season ticket is on a phone, as is his Merlin annual pass, his bank card and his schedule for school now he has started Year 7. I have just received an email from the school to say which app his English homework will be on, and he scans QR codes to get more information—I think phone use in everyday life is already integrated so much in both education and social activities, simply removing smartphones from under 18s would be easier said than done.

As a parent who, in the next few years, will be considering what to do with my younger son, I think considering safety, boundaries and being transparent about what phones are being used for is key. And having red lines on when you lose access—if there are any behaviour issues in our house, the three things that get immediately addressed are the “3 S’s”—screens, sugar and sleep!

I was proud when Ben recently helped me with my work and screen recorded a social media short on how to turn off emergency phone alerts for survivors of domestic abuse who have a hidden phone. Phones can be used for good in different ways, from sharing information to learning a language; they just have to be used safely and with ongoing supervision and guidance for young people. And as parents, we all have a role to play in making sure that if our children have access to phones, it is as safe as it can possibly be. If there are apps or social media platforms where we do not feel our children are safe, we need to take steps to make sure they are not accessing them.

Fabio D’Andrea’s “Another Way” is available to watch on YouTube @fabiodandreaofficial

Support the Campaign – For more information on how you can support this campaign, please email campaign@broodmagazine.com.
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“ I’d pivoted from a successful career as a screenwriter, director and producer working in tv and film to ‘storttelling’ online fulltime, as my former job had proved completely incompatible with motherhood”

Can you tell us a bit about the stories and how you think they’ll resonate with young readers?

 

The Greek Myths each have a moral behind them, and I include a section at the end of each one titled Moral of the Myth to help children understand and further explore the stories, often making parallels with well-known fairy tales which came after the myths. The ancient Greeks believed 12 powerful gods lived on Mount Olympus, but that they were as flawed and complex as the human mortals they governed over. The myths tell the stories of deities and mortals who made bad decisions, for example, the money-obsessed King Midas who turned his own child to gold before repenting, or the impulsive Icarus who failed to listen to his father and flew too close to the sun.

 

How did your own experiences as a parent influence the writing process, and did you draw from any specific moments or challenges?

 

Being a parent means having experienced emotion in its most heightened form: unconditional love, searing pain, rebellious optimism, endless ennui and more. To have access to such a vast range of experiences and emotions enables me to empathise with each character and make them more human. I also think having children and being busy means not having the luxury of procrastination because as soon as the youngest is asleep, I HAVE to write!

 

How do you prioritise your time and responsibilities as a working mum, and what self-care practices help you stay energised and focused?

 

I tend to write on the days my 3 year old has childcare (2 days a week) and when she sleeps. My older sons are at school, but they have lots of sports commitments, so after school and weekends are busy. I feel like a taxi driver most of the time. I think the pandemic gave me greater balance in my work/ parenting life as I didn’t have to commute as much as before. I also became stricter when it came to the projects I took on during my pregnancy and beyond. A former therapist once said to me, ‘You are your values,’ so I always remember what matters most to me: family and friends and making work decisions from a place of knowing what I want and need in order to be a happy and present mum first. My identity at one time relied heavily on my career. It doesn’t anymore, it’s an important part of me, but not as vital as my mental and physical health and of course my kids, husband, parents and close pals. I love running and try to do yoga from home as much as possible. I also follow a low-carb diet, which helps me feel my strongest.

 

And lastly, do you have any tales of ‘BROOD Moments’ where work and parenthood have collided?

 

My middle son was asked on live TV around the age of 4 (on the BBC) if he was happy I worked from home so he could see me more, and he said, ‘No, she can be quite annoying! ’ Ha! From the mouth of babes!

 

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Interview with Honest Mum

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Motivational mum of two, Vicki Broadbent, better known as Honest Mum, is a name that has become synonymous with authentic and relatable parenting. Vicki has built a reputation for sharing her unfiltered thoughts and experiences on motherhood, marriage, and family life. With a refreshing dose of honesty and humour, Vicki’s blog has become a go-to resource for parents seeking real advice and reassurance. We asked Vicki about her journey from an award-winning director to a renowned creator, her new children’s book, and what inspires her to keep sharing her honest perspective with the world.

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Interview with Honest Mum

Interview with Honest Mum

by | Sep 15, 2025 | Featured, Motivation

Motivational mum of two, Vicki Broadbent, better known as Honest Mum, is a name that has become synonymous with authentic and relatable parenting. Vicki has built a reputation for sharing her unfiltered thoughts and experiences on motherhood, marriage, and family life. With a refreshing dose of honesty and humour, Vicki’s blog has become a go-to resource for parents seeking real advice and reassurance. We asked Vicki about her journey from an award-winning director to a renowned creator, her new children’s book, and what inspires her to keep sharing her honest perspective with the world.

“creativity has always been my therapy… So writing my children’s book has helped me hugely especially, postnatally, its served as a stimulating distraction, and simultaneously has given me my own time and soace to process a traumatic birth.”

Honest Mum
Honest Mum

Honest Mum Images © Joseph Sinclair

What sparked your passion for creating content around honest parenting, and how has your approach evolved?

I started blogging back in November 2010 when my eldest son, Oliver, was 10 months old, at the advent of blogging. I remember having to explain to people at the time what a blog was! I was one of a handful of mums in the UK who had set up online diaries, so we could share our voice and experiences of motherhood: the highs and the lows, as parenting felt so lonely back then.

I started writing to try and process a traumatic birth (although it took 5 years to write about that specific time in a since-viral post). We were all totally unaware at the time that we could a) build a community and b) actually earn from blogging, yet we quickly discovered both could be true, as it was in the US. We grew a following and our blogs began to operate as digital magazines, providing us with a good income and options (finally) as working parents who wanted remote and flexible jobs so we could see our kids.

After two years, I’d pivoted from a successful career as a screenwriter, director and producer working in TV and film to ‘storytelling’ online full time, as my former job had proved completely incompatible with motherhood. I would be away for weeks at a time shooting adverts, for example, heartbroken to be apart from my young son, and missing his milestones, unsure how I would last in my chosen and hard-won profession. I was lucky that my skills were transferable, though, and with the focus on video and filmmaking later, online, I was able to reach millions per month, sometimes over 60 million views in a single reel, with short, emotive content on Instagram and Facebook. I still blog today, and it’s a substantial part of my business.

I’ve also written two books: Mumboss (a guide to surviving and thriving at work and at home-Little, Brown, Hachette), and I’ve spent the last year writing Greek Myths, Folktales and Legends, retelling 20 Greek myths for 9-12 year olds for Scholastic UK, which is out in September 2025! Being originally Greek, this book means so much to me. I hope those who read it (children and parents alike) find the myths as compelling and heartfelt as the originals, but also more relatable and modern too.

How do you balance your career as a blogger, author, and entrepreneur with being a mum, and what tips can you share with our readers?

I fail often. I have three children now, Oliver, 15, Alexander, 12 and Florence 3, so life is more frantic than ever. The fact I can write quickly (which dates back to my Masters at 21, and working in the fast-paced film and TV industry after) has taught me how to be prolific in short bursts and within strict time frames but honestly there are times I really can’t juggle it all and something has to give. Usually, my sanity! I often request deadline extensions or ring my Mum crying that I can’t cope, and she scoots over to help with childcare and dinner!

Raising children is the most intensive form of labour humans will ever undertake, and now, more than ever, we require a village, and even with that help aside, a robust infrastructure in the workplace to help support mothers especially, who tend to be the default parent and also for many, a carer for older relatives too. The pressures can feel immense at times for us all. I think for me, personally, creativity has always been my therapy (I wrote stories as soon as I could write and kept diaries throughout my childhood) so writing my children’s book has helped me hugely especially, postnatally, it’s served as a stimulating distraction, and simultaneously has given me my own time and space to process a traumatic birth with my third baby. This was exactly the purpose my blog originally served when I suffered birth trauma with my first son. It was cathartic to write then, and it still is now.

Who are some of the biggest inspirations in your life, and how do they influence your work?

My mum, Vasoulla, first and foremost, a former lecturer and teacher, is the smartest woman I know, a selfless mum, and my greatest champion. The fact that she recently reread War and Peace for fun, and she reads 5 books a week, sets the bar for me. She’s our family’s rock.

From a literary perspective, bestselling authors Emma Jane Unsworth and Bonnie Garmus are hugely inspirational; their books are always so distinct, original, and yet totally relatable and universal. They also always feel naturally cinematic, even if the plots are ‘small’ and intimate, I can always imagine them on screen. Filmmakers Sam Taylor-Johnson and Ava DuVernay, both I’ve been lucky enough to meet and interview, Ava and Nora Ephron, of course, have collectively smashed through the glass ceiling for women in the film and TV world,  creating groundbreaking, evocative and beautifully mesmerising films and series. They’re unstoppable.

What inspired you to write your new children’s book, and what’s the main message you hope readers take away from it?

My brilliant literary agent, Jo Bell, was approached by Scholastic UK, who were seeking a writer of Greek origin to write a collection of Greek Myths for their Classic series of books, so she kindly put me forward. I was asked to write a modern version of the story of Medusa for 9-12 year olds as a sample chapter, and from there, I was commissioned to write the entire book. It was a test, if you like, and rightly so. The first two drafts of Medusa, with feedback, helped me to hone my voice and ensure I was writing in an age-appropriate way whilst retelling these almost 3000 year old characters and plots into moving adventures for young readers.  I hope each one feels like a short film. There’s lots of dialogue and even poems and songs I’ve written within the stories, and I cover many favourites such as Pandora’s Box, Jason and The Golden Fleece, The Trojan Horse and King Midas but I also share lesser known myths such as Zeus and The Storm and Atalanta, the Baby Brought Up As a Bear (the main character reminds me of my strong little 3 year old)!.

My diligent editor, Bella, told me when she first read one of my earlier drafts that she could instantly tell I was a screenwriter, as the myths felt filmic, which was a huge compliment. I want the myths to come alive in the hands of the reader. I also know from my extensive research that the earliest editions of the Greek myths are time-consuming and verbose, so many adults would struggle to read them all. This book is also for them.

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Honest Mum

“ I’d pivoted from a successful career as a screenwriter, director and producer working in tv and film to ‘storttelling’ online fulltime, as my former job had proved completely incompatible with motherhood”

Can you tell us a bit about the stories and how you think they’ll resonate with young readers?

 

The Greek Myths each have a moral behind them, and I include a section at the end of each one titled Moral of the Myth to help children understand and further explore the stories, often making parallels with well-known fairy tales which came after the myths. The ancient Greeks believed 12 powerful gods lived on Mount Olympus, but that they were as flawed and complex as the human mortals they governed over. The myths tell the stories of deities and mortals who made bad decisions, for example, the money-obsessed King Midas who turned his own child to gold before repenting, or the impulsive Icarus who failed to listen to his father and flew too close to the sun.

 

How did your own experiences as a parent influence the writing process, and did you draw from any specific moments or challenges?

 

Being a parent means having experienced emotion in its most heightened form: unconditional love, searing pain, rebellious optimism, endless ennui and more. To have access to such a vast range of experiences and emotions enables me to empathise with each character and make them more human. I also think having children and being busy means not having the luxury of procrastination because as soon as the youngest is asleep, I HAVE to write!

 

How do you prioritise your time and responsibilities as a working mum, and what self-care practices help you stay energised and focused?

 

I tend to write on the days my 3 year old has childcare (2 days a week) and when she sleeps. My older sons are at school, but they have lots of sports commitments, so after school and weekends are busy. I feel like a taxi driver most of the time. I think the pandemic gave me greater balance in my work/ parenting life as I didn’t have to commute as much as before. I also became stricter when it came to the projects I took on during my pregnancy and beyond. A former therapist once said to me, ‘You are your values,’ so I always remember what matters most to me: family and friends and making work decisions from a place of knowing what I want and need in order to be a happy and present mum first. My identity at one time relied heavily on my career. It doesn’t anymore, it’s an important part of me, but not as vital as my mental and physical health and of course my kids, husband, parents and close pals. I love running and try to do yoga from home as much as possible. I also follow a low-carb diet, which helps me feel my strongest.

 

And lastly, do you have any tales of ‘BROOD Moments’ where work and parenthood have collided?

 

My middle son was asked on live TV around the age of 4 (on the BBC) if he was happy I worked from home so he could see me more, and he said, ‘No, she can be quite annoying! ’ Ha! From the mouth of babes!

 

Part time working mummy post
jmw

 KEEP UP TO DATE WITH BROOD:

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Please select all the ways you would like to hear from Brood Magazine:
You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. For information about our privacy practices, please visit our website.
We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices here.

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Interview with Honest Mum

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Motivational mum of two, Vicki Broadbent, better known as Honest Mum, is a name that has become synonymous with authentic and relatable parenting. Vicki has built a reputation for sharing her unfiltered thoughts and experiences on motherhood, marriage, and family life. With a refreshing dose of honesty and humour, Vicki’s blog has become a go-to resource for parents seeking real advice and reassurance. We asked Vicki about her journey from an award-winning director to a renowned creator, her new children’s book, and what inspires her to keep sharing her honest perspective with the world.

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Carrying a school bag that is too heavy poses a risk to children’s health. Ahead of the start of the new term, M&S have partnered with chiropractor and British Chiropractic Association (BCA) member, Dean Blackstock, to explain the health dangers and share one simple rule parents can follow to protect their children. 

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Honoring Loss and New Beginnings: National Rainbow Baby Day

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by | Aug 20, 2025 | ,

For National Rainbow Baby Day, we spoke with Anastasia Shubareva-Epshtein—mum of one and founder of the Carea App—about her personal journey through loss, hope, and new beginnings. Anastasia opens up about the emotional complexities of pregnancy after loss, the importance of breaking the silence around miscarriage, and how her experiences inspired her to create a support-focused app for women navigating similar paths.

jmw
Honest Mum

“ I’d pivoted from a successful career as a screenwriter, director and producer working in tv and film to ‘storttelling’ online fulltime, as my former job had proved completely incompatible with motherhood”

Can you tell us a bit about the stories and how you think they’ll resonate with young readers?

 

The Greek Myths each have a moral behind them, and I include a section at the end of each one titled Moral of the Myth to help children understand and further explore the stories, often making parallels with well-known fairy tales which came after the myths. The ancient Greeks believed 12 powerful gods lived on Mount Olympus, but that they were as flawed and complex as the human mortals they governed over. The myths tell the stories of deities and mortals who made bad decisions, for example, the money-obsessed King Midas who turned his own child to gold before repenting, or the impulsive Icarus who failed to listen to his father and flew too close to the sun.

 

How did your own experiences as a parent influence the writing process, and did you draw from any specific moments or challenges?

 

Being a parent means having experienced emotion in its most heightened form: unconditional love, searing pain, rebellious optimism, endless ennui and more. To have access to such a vast range of experiences and emotions enables me to empathise with each character and make them more human. I also think having children and being busy means not having the luxury of procrastination because as soon as the youngest is asleep, I HAVE to write!

 

How do you prioritise your time and responsibilities as a working mum, and what self-care practices help you stay energised and focused?

 

I tend to write on the days my 3 year old has childcare (2 days a week) and when she sleeps. My older sons are at school, but they have lots of sports commitments, so after school and weekends are busy. I feel like a taxi driver most of the time. I think the pandemic gave me greater balance in my work/ parenting life as I didn’t have to commute as much as before. I also became stricter when it came to the projects I took on during my pregnancy and beyond. A former therapist once said to me, ‘You are your values,’ so I always remember what matters most to me: family and friends and making work decisions from a place of knowing what I want and need in order to be a happy and present mum first. My identity at one time relied heavily on my career. It doesn’t anymore, it’s an important part of me, but not as vital as my mental and physical health and of course my kids, husband, parents and close pals. I love running and try to do yoga from home as much as possible. I also follow a low-carb diet, which helps me feel my strongest.

 

And lastly, do you have any tales of ‘BROOD Moments’ where work and parenthood have collided?

 

My middle son was asked on live TV around the age of 4 (on the BBC) if he was happy I worked from home so he could see me more, and he said, ‘No, she can be quite annoying! ’ Ha! From the mouth of babes!

 

Part time working mummy post

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Explore Europe Without Breaking the Bank: Family-Friendly Eurocamp Adventures for 2026

Explore Europe Without Breaking the Bank: Family-Friendly Eurocamp Adventures for 2026

by | Sep 10, 2025 | Featured, Travel

Explore Europe Without Breaking the Bank

By Lolo Stubbs

Visiting dream destinations doesn’t have to break the bank. As a family of six, holidays seemed increasingly costly and out of reach—until we found Eurocamp.

Introduction

Eurocamp is a family-friendly haven that offers a range of accommodation options, including pitches for tents and campervans, mobile homes, and lodges. Each time we visited, we chose one of the three-bedroom lodges, which has a fantastic outside decking space with large seating areas. Inside there’s air con and all the mod cons each family needs (apart from a TV, which didn’t bother us adults—but if your children like to wind down with some TV in the evenings, download some programmes onto your iPad or laptop).

What You’ll Typically Find on Site

  • Swimming pools and splash pools for kids
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Supermarkets and convenience stores
  • Playgrounds and entertainment areas for kids
  • Wi‑Fi and laundry facilities

We’ve thoroughly enjoyed each site we’ve visited. We’ve been to Italy, France and Spain, and we can’t wait to explore more of Europe in the same way!

Bella Italia, Lake Garda, Italy

Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, is a breathtaking destination that offers stunning scenery, charming towns, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities. For families looking to explore this beautiful region without breaking the bank, the Bella Italia campsite is an excellent choice. We took our broods to Eurocamp’s Bella Italia for our Dad’s 70th birthday to tick discovering the wonders of Lake Garda off the bucket list, and we certainly did just that!

Located in the picturesque town of Peschiera del Garda, Bella Italia campsite made a brilliant base. It was great to have so much to do on the campsite to keep the children occupied, but equally, it was a fantastic launchpad to explore the breathtaking Lake Garda.

Some of our favourite destinations included:

  • Sirmione: This charming town is famous for its Roman ruins, thermal baths, and picturesque harbour. Take a stroll along the lakefront, visit the Sirmione Castle, and enjoy a delicious gelato. We made our trip here extra special by hiring a motorboat for the 15 of us. The kids loved that the captain let them choose their own music, and I’m not sure Sirmione has ever had a group of Mancunians singing an Oasis song so loudly as we came back to shore—we certainly made an impression.
  • Bardolino: The ease of getting from one side of the lake to the other is one of the beautiful things about Lake Garda. One of the children’s favourite parts of our day out at Bardolino was the ferry ride over there. The views were stunning, and we enjoyed some fabulous food and wine when we arrived.
  • Riva del Garda: This historic town is known for its charming old town, picturesque lakefront, and stunning mountain views. Take a boat ride, visit the Riva del Garda Castle, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants.

There were many places we didn’t get to visit. Gardaland, for one, is supposedly a must-visit theme park for families, with thrilling rides, shows, and attractions.

Travelling with Other Families

One of the highlights of our trip was travelling with other families. Sharing the experience with friends and like‑minded families made the trip even more enjoyable. We shared meals, explored the lake together, and enjoyed each other’s company. The kids had a blast playing together, and the adults appreciated the social aspect of travelling in a group.

Why Lake Garda Works on a Budget

Lake Garda is a stunning destination that offers something for everyone. With its picturesque towns, beautiful scenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, it’s a perfect spot for families. By staying at the Bella Italia campsite and travelling with other families, we were able to experience the best of Lake Garda on a budget. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, Lake Garda is a must‑visit destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Eurocamp Holidays
Lake Garda Italy<br />

Continuing our Eurocamp journey: France and Spain

 Domaine De La Yole, Béziers, France

We had the pleasure of visiting Domaine De La Yole, a Eurocamp park in the beautiful south of France, with our brood. The sun‑kissed region provided the perfect backdrop for a fantastic family holiday.

Domaine De La Yole truly lives up to its reputation as a family‑friendly haven. The park’s layout is designed with families in mind, with the bar and restaurant situated right in front of the playground area. This allowed us to relax and chat with a cold beverage while keeping a watchful eye on the kids as they played to their hearts’ content.

The park boasts two fantastic pool areas that provided hours of fun for our children:

  • One pool area featured an array of slides, including thrilling water slides and more gentle options for younger kids.
  • The other pool area was a tropical lagoon, complete with sand and a relaxing atmosphere.

Our kids loved splashing around in both pools, and we loved watching them have so much fun.

Playa Joyel, Noja, Spain

As two families—one with two kids and the other with four—we were excited to explore Playa Joyel in Noja, Spain. Our stay at the campsite and lodges was a resounding success, with clean facilities and all the amenities we needed.

The surrounding green hills provided a stunning backdrop to our stay, while the beautiful golden sands beach was a delight for both kids and adults. The beach was perfect for building sandcastles, swimming, and soaking up the sun.

Just a short walk from the campsite, we discovered La Cabaña in Playa de Ris, a picturesque bar that quickly became our go‑to spot. The kids loved playing in the sand while the adults relaxed with a drink, enjoying the breathtaking views. The children even got to dance to their favourite TikTok tunes, making it a highlight of our trip.

We visited Playa Joyel out of season, which meant that not all amenities were open. However, this didn’t detract from our overall experience. The siesta times did pose a slight challenge, as they didn’t quite align with the kids’ tea time schedule. Nevertheless, we adapted and made the most of our time.

Playa Joyel was an excellent choice for our family vacation. The campsite, lodges, and beach provided a relaxing atmosphere, while La Cabaña bar became our favourite spot. We would definitely recommend Playa Joyel to families looking for a scenic and enjoyable getaway.

Wrap‑Up

For families who want to explore Europe without breaking the bank, Eurocamp offers exactly what’s needed: a mix of budget‑friendly accommodation, kid‑pleasing amenities, and brilliant locations. From Italy’s lakeside towns to France’s sunlit pool days and Spain’s golden beaches, we made memories that will last—without the eye‑watering price tag. 

 

 

Grecotel Costa Botanica

Picture: Noja, Spain

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Featured Articles

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A Family Feast to Remember: The Roast Dinner at Manchester’s Blacklock

A Family Feast to Remember: The Roast Dinner at Manchester’s Blacklock

by | Jun 17, 2025 | Food

A Family Feast to Remember: The Roast Dinner at Manchester’s Blacklock

As a family of six, finding a restaurant that can cater to our bustling brood can be a challenge. But our recent visit to Blacklock in Manchester proved to be an exceptional experience that exceeded our expectations. We opted for their famous platter of roast dinner, and it was truly a treat for all of us.
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Manchester Blacklock
A family of six enjoying their Sunday Roast at Blacklock Manchester, smiling and sharing food at the table

The Blacklock Sunday Roast piles up a heady mix of Beef, Lamb and Pork Roasts with all of the trimmings. The star of the show was undoubtedly the succulent meats, cooked to perfection.

Whole joints are roasted over open coals and English oak the traditional way. Served with

Yorkshire pudding, duck fat-roast potatoes, a selection of seasonal vegetables and an

unsparing amount of Blacklock Gravy. From the tender lamb to flavourful beef, every bite was

a delight. The quality of the food was exceptional, and we appreciated the generous portions

that especially kept our growing teenage boy happy!

One of the standout aspects of Blacklock was the relaxed atmosphere that

permeated the entire dining area, so we didn’t have to worry about the kids getting restless

or getting overexcited.

Blacklock’s is nestled in a cosy basement in the corner of a Grade ll listed warehouse,

formerly home to a textile merchant rich with Mancunian history, with a warm and inviting

decor, adding to the overall ambiance of the meal.

Child enjoying sunday dinner at Blacklock Manchester
BROOD magazine podcast

The service at Blacklock was top-notch. Our server was attentive, friendly, and efficient, ensuring that our glasses were always full and our plates were never empty. They were also happy to accommodate our requests and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal, making sure everyone felt at ease—especially Peter, who served us throughout and even got a hug from our youngest, Hartley (a thank you for all the extra gravy!).

cheese cake at Blacklock
No meal at Blacklock would be complete without trying their famous desserts. Whilst the rest of the family indulged in the renowned Blacklock white chocolate cheesecake, I was completely stuffed from the delicious Sunday Roast and opted for a Black Forest Cocktail—which was heavenly! The creamy textures and rich flavors were the perfect way to round off our meal.
Our visit to Blacklock was an unforgettable experience that left everyone in our family feeling full and content. With its exceptional food, relaxed atmosphere, and outstanding service, it’s a restaurant that we would highly recommend to families and foodies alike. We can’t wait to go back!
–

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Interview with Honest Mum

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Interview with Entrepreneur Simon squibb – what’s your dream?

Interview with Entrepreneur Simon squibb – what’s your dream?

by | Jun 16, 2025 | Featured, Work

“As soon as I got to a point where I was no longer worrying about money, when I had filled my own bucket, then I thought right, how can I help other people climb up the ladder?”

Help Bnk
Simon Squibb
Simon Squibb

Simon Squibb Images © BROOD Magazine Limited

If you’re an entrepreneur, or have aspirations to start your own business, and you have a TikTok or Instagram account then you are sure to have heard the words, ‘’What’s your dream?” words that have become synonyms with renowned entrepreneur, Simon Squibb.

Simon’s story is one of grit, talent and an unbelievable determination to build a life for himself that was very different from the one he had as a homeless 15 years old who started a business, in order to eat and earn enough money to get somewhere to sleep. Simon is very vocal about his passion to shake up the school system and to empower everyone to have the knowledge and confidence to start their own business. To live a life with purpose and doing something that they love. Simon wants to break down the barriers that people list as reasons not to live out their dreams. Simon’s story of going from a 15 year old boy who was homeless, to founding 19 different companies, to selling his agency Fluid to PwC for more money than he’ll ever need, has left him inspiring the masses and he wants to use his platform to help people. Simon went viral when he bought a derelict staircase in London, and put a doorbell on it where people now come from far and wide to pitch their dreams, which Simon and his team then endeavour to help make these dreams happen with the help of his company, Helpbnk. Helpbnk was created to build a community where people can #givewithouttake and help their fellow entrepreneurs to build their businesses. Simon has amassed an impressive 2.2 million followers on Instagram and over 5.3million followers on TikTok over the past couple of years, becoming a recognisable face for many dreamers throughout the UK and Internationally. In November 2024 Simon was chosen by the Great British Entrepreneur Awards to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, and in the same month, he was presented with his Gold YouTube Plaque for reaching 1,000,000 subscribers. Simon’s book – What’s Your Dream, is released on 16th January, 2025. The book has been hailed by #1 New York Times Bestseller Jay Shetty, ‘Simon loves dreams and he wants you to live yours. This book will stop you from giving up on your goals and start building the life you want’ and Dad of 5 and Chef, Jamie Oliver ‘Inspiring stuff…Simon empowers you to follow your dreams without fear’ 

We were honoured to have been invited to Simon’s family home for a couple of hours despite his busy schedule. Naturally, he streamed our photoshoot and interview on TikTok, as always sharing his life behind the scenes with his followers, as we chatted through his incredible business journey and how he wants to shake up the system to empower more and more people to live out their dreams.

 

What inspired you to enter the world of business? 

“Well, I had no choice but to enter the world of business. I couldn’t get a job and I had tried begging on the streets and I couldn’t make any money, so at 15 years old the only option I had was to start a business.”

 

When did you find that first piece of success in business, that made you stay on that path of being self-employed and believe that it was a road worth staying on? 

“Well, I had a very small measure of what success was back in those days. If I can make enough money to eat and maybe get a roof over my head and have somewhere to sleep then that was success to me. I actually think it’s a really good yardstick for making sure that you treat success with little milestones, not big ones. A lot of people say, I want a million pounds and that will mean I’m successful, when actually you might then spend a lot of your time disappointed so it’s better to give yourself small targets. That’s why I bought the staircase in Twickenham, to illustrate the little step-by-step process. Like for me back then you know the day I got 1 garden contract, one person saying I could take care of their garden, that was a success. That paid for food and accommodation for the week.”

jmw
Simon Squibb what's your dream interview

“ I think having ownership over what you do every day is the most valuable thing you could possibly have, owning your own time.”

That’s a really important point and it’s actually something we’ve talked a lot about, as it’s so easy it is to get caught up in that end goal and miss the opportunity to celebrate all those little wins. 

Absolutely, and especially when you’re comparing yourself to other people and their businesses and it deflates your enthusiasm for what you’re working on if you don’t measure it by those little steps instead of these big massive ones. 

Do you think your journey to success is what led you to start the purposeful project which is now HelpBnk? Tell us a bit more about your journey to get there. 

Yeah, I actually changed the name from Purposeful Project to Help Bank. So my focus now is on the Help Bank brand, but originally it was a purposeful project for me and it was really helping the 15 year old boy who struggled. I didn’t know anything about business. I’d been in school for 12 years at this point as well and I knew nothing about how money works. I knew nothing about the world of business. I knew nothing about how to sell myself or the services I would eventually sell, so I think that’s where that passion came from, I just wanted to help the 15 year old me. As soon as I got to a point where I was no longer worrying about money, when I had filled my own bucket, then I thought right, how can I help other people climb up the ladder? It’s that whole analogy of don’t pull the ladder up behind you. Put the ladder down and help people up. I want everyone to know how to make money. I want everyone to know how to start a business, I call it informed consent, to start a business if they want, they don’t have to, but at least let them have the option. And so my mission is to help that 15 year old who didn’t know how to do it and didn’t have any help at the beginning. When I asked for help, from people that would have been able to help me, they would only help me if I had money, but of course I had no money to pay them. They used to say something that I never forgot, which is – if you don’t pay, you don’t pay attention. And I thought that was not true. I know that is not true because I’m so desperate for knowledge. Of course, I’m going to pay attention. The problem was that I couldn’t afford to pay them for that knowledge. So from that moment onwards I logged that and I thought one day I am going to give the knowledge to people for free and I’m never going to use that bull**** line – if you don’t pay, you don’t pay attention, because that’s just used so that people can justify charging people for help.”

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“when you’re comparing yourself to other people and their businesses, it deflates your enthusiasm for what you’re working on.”

Between schools not teaching us the skills to start our own businesses and it being so hard to get grants, loans etc to start a business, making it seem something that’s so out of reach for so many people, how important is it to you to break down those barriers and help people to see that it is something that is possible for them? And what changes do you think need to be made to show people that. 

There’s a lot we need to change, but I think on a basic level, a simple example is when I first went to school, I remember at only five years old being asked by my teacher on the first day of school, what will you be when you grow up? What that does is instantly trap your mind into thinking about one particular thing, Doctor, Lawyer, Teacher, whatever it is you can think of at that age and with that literally from a young age you’re on a path to university out and the other end to work for someone else. I think we should open up the question people when they arrive at school and it should be ‘what problems do you want to solve’. Because now if we’re going to live to 100 which is predicted for our young people, they could live until your 100. You can do 5, or 6, or 7 different things in your lifetime. You do all of these different things at some point in your life and so you shouldn’t be pigeonholed into one particular thing. Of course, if you want to be a Lawyer or a Doctor that’s fine, but I also think we need to start being honest and saying if you want to be a doctor, it’s probably gonna get done by AI in the future. So if you want to be a doctor, just bear that in mind. So, I think we need to be honest and say this is the future as well. I think we should be taught financial literacy and how the world works and give people the ability to educate themselves so that in the future they feel like they’ve got a purpose in this world. It is that simple on a basic level? The whole long list of how it could be done would take up hours of our day, but you only need to look at the stats that 80% of A Graded students work for D Graded students. Why is that? Because the school system is actually training people to work for someone else – Sit down, do an exam. Don’t stand out. Don’t say what you think. Shut up, and do what you’re told. If you conform in the school system to do that then you’re much easier to control when you go into the workforce. It’s like if people turn up to work five minutes late, does it really matter? But, people love that control and the school system makes the A students controllable and those students are smart people. That needs to change. And this isn’t just me saying this, Carnegie and Henry Ford admitted that they invested in the education system to do just that – they said it out loud. But we’ve decided not to recognise it and do nothing about it, even though it’s now a 100 year experiment. If you look at 5 year olds, 95% of them if you test them are considered geniuses but then they hit 12 or 13, it drops down to less than 2%. From this magical education system – it actually dumbs people down. It makes people fearful. It doesn’t allow people to use their IQ. It only focuses on a weird grade system that is mass produced and not tailored to individual needs. I was told I was stupid at school. I’m not stupid, but if you’d have asked a nine year old me I would say I’m a little bit stupid ’cause I was dyslexic as well and that was drummed into me at school.”

You now have a son, how do you approach learning with him? 

“I homeschool my son. He’s not in public education, and I ask him what he wants to do today. So it’s child-led learning. It’s fascinating running my own theory with my own son. I ask him what he’s interested in, for example, you just mentioned your daughter’s interest in makeup so if she’s interested in makeup, she would probably learn about the things she maybe doesn’t even really, like accounts, and stuff like that, because she’s gotten an interest in the subject. My son was obsessed with road maps for a while. Anything to do with the road system – A1, the M25 motorway. He wanted to know where they led, how they’re connected, where they’re connected, what they were called and how they got built. And so we go into the details of how the M25 got built. And it’s a political story, how the political system didn’t want it to happen, what happened and didn’t happen. How much it costs, where the money came from, the economics, politics, he learnt it all through his interest of roads. So letting people follow their passions, follow their dreams, letting people do what is natural to them, then all the things they need to learn to do it, they will learn naturally and enjoy learning. As opposed to sitting down to learn biology or something you’re not very good at, it puts people off. It’s just a joke that subjects like Art for example are still seen as being a bit whimsical. I think as parents you are almost trained to think that you should encourage your child to go to university. But in England, you end up in debt by going to university and an education that stops you taking risks, because you feel like you have to get a job as soon as you leave.” 

As running a business can be hard at times, how important do you think it is that you build a business centred around something that you’re passionate about?

“I don’t think business is so hard. I mean of course, it is at times, but so is the other option of working for someone else. There’s still a lot of ups and downs when you work for someone else. For instance, two people have reached out in my DM’s this morning as they had been made redundant – that’s a down. I think as entrepreneurs we’ve gotta be careful how we talk. because we’re setting a narrative that isn’t entirely true. Of course, every journey is hard, but would you want to go and work for someone else now? [We agree, that we wouldn’t want to] You see what I mean? If you talk to someone who’s run their own business for more than a year and who has had some model of success, they will generally always say that they wouldn’t go back to working for someone else. And I think if we went into the town now, I think that nearly everybody who’s got a job would say they don’t really like it. In fact I haven’t met many people that like their job. I think having ownership over what you do every day is the most valuable thing you could possibly have, owning your own time. I think that people forget that running your own business although like everything else it may have its challenges, it gives you choices each day that a lot of people who work for someone else don’t have. 

But again, we have this narrative that being an entrepreneur is so hard, and of course when you’re trying to achieve anything it’s hard… climbing up a mountain is hard, but you don’t expect to achieve climbing Mount Everest and it not be hard. That is the point, that you learn, you grow, you push yourself, and you can achieve more than you thought possible. That’s the whole point of life.”

I think it can be hard for people to leave behind the structure of knowing when you will get your wages and exactly how much that you will get, as opposed to waiting on invoices for example… 

“Yes, it’s like a salary drug and the system is designed to keep people addicted to that. 

It wants you to get used to that predictability, but life just isn’t meant to be like that, it’s much more enjoyable when there are highs and lows, and you’re in charge of the hunt.”

Do you think it’s harder to make that change from having a job into starting a business once you become a parent and the responsibilities that come with that? And what advice would you give to them? 

“I think kids don’t do what you say, they do what you do. So, if you are not enjoying your work and you’re sacrificing for the kids, then they will end up doing the same and they’re not gonna be inspired. Kids don’t care how big your house is, they don’t care how many toys you get them, they just want your time and they want to learn from you. So if you want to inspire them, let them watch you follow your dreams. I’ve got a 7 year old, I totally understand the difference between when I wasn’t a parent, to now when I am a parent. There is definitely an argument to take more risk when you’re younger for sure, but there is also the argument for owning your own time once you become a parent because the most important thing you can give your kids time. I think time is the problem, not money. I do understand that everybody reading this might be like, well, you don’t know what it’s like, Simon, I’m struggling to make ends meet. But, I do understand, I’ve been there myself. I do know what it’s like. I would argue though, that if you enjoy what you do, you do make more money in the long run and you can sustain it, and you’ll stay healthier because you’re enjoying your work. If you’re not enjoying it, if you don’t have any equity where you work, it’s not scalable – you’re selling time. Most people, most parents, are selling 40 hours a week. You are selling the only thing your kids actually want, so why not build something up which means you’re no longer selling your time and eventually, if you do it right, you give yourself more time and freedom. It is harder running a business in the beginning, but only because of the learning curve. It’s because there’s so much to learn, it’s exciting and you need to be really focused, but it gets easier over time. I built 19 companies up and then brought someone else in to run them. I give them equity and someone else runs it. Now I’ve got businesses generating income and I’m putting no time into it. I think it’s easier to work for someone in the beginning, but it’s harder over time. I think if you think working for someone else is easier than working for yourself, you have been brainwashed. You’ve been brainwashed by your employer and you’ve been brainwashed by the system, it’s not true. If you work for yourself you’re in control of your destiny.” 

Obviously, when you are juggling being a parent and running a business, inevitably there will be occasions where you can’t be in two places at once. How do you navigate those times? 

“There’s always going to be times like that, that’s the struggle of life. There are three pillars to what we need as humans; attention for ourselves, looking after ourselves and our relationships we need to give attention to. It is actually very hard to do all three at once. So people talk about work life balance all the time and I’d say the answer is to combine the three wherever possible. So I go on long walks with my colleagues, or I’m running at the moment with my colleagues, so I do work and exercise at the same time. That way I’m looking after myself and I’m working well. I’m bringing my wife and my son on business trips with me, so I get to be with my family whilst I’m working. But you can’t do all three in separation. Something will suffer. Yesterday, my son asked me not to go out, he asked me to stay with him and I explained that I’m helping three people, that I promised to help, so as much as I want to be with him, and I would actually rather be with him I had committed to something. I had promised to do something, I’ve got to do it and that’s important for him to know. I’m showing him that helping people requires sacrifice sometimes for our own joy, but if it has a purpose it’s worth it. So I’m educating him even just by not being with him. I think a life with purpose is a purposeful life, so at least when I tell my son I’m leaving him to do something purposeful, it’s not just about making money.

Simon Squibb

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