John likes going to weddings but when the music starts and the bride and groom take the floor, he disappears from view. Can Arthur help?

In 2019, in a documentary for Radio 4, 11-year-old Arthur tried to fix his dad’s life. We heard how Arthur likes dinosaurs and plays the cello. His dad, Babak, avoids the gym, drinks and has panic attacks. For three weeks, Arthur set about trying to improve his dad’s life, tackling health, a messy flat and the biggest challenge - how to ride a bike.

Arthur now 12, about to turn 13, wants to help more people. Arthur is still wise beyond his years, his self-deprecating comedic humility balances the seriousness of life. Five people, with minor problems, are looking for Arthur’s advice.

Perhaps there has never been a greater time for guidance. Self-help fills bookshops, conference rooms, gyms and therapist offices - telling people to help themselves is big business. And yet, somehow, this doesn't seem to work.

Perhaps the real guidance can come from the idealistic mind of Arthur? Welcome to Arthur Cares!

Produced by Katie Callin
A Reduced Listening production for BBC Radio 4 Show less