Lancashire couple transform woman’s life through Shared Lives scheme
Shared Lives carers help Clare regain confidence and happiness
A Lancashire couple has helped transform the life of a woman named Clare, who moved into their home through the council’s Shared Lives scheme.
Shared Lives provides adults aged 18 and over who may have a physical or learning disability with the option to move into a family home with trained carers. The scheme also offers respite care, short-term placements, and day support along with guidance from Shared Lives support officers.
When Clare met Kim and Mike through this programme, she was anxious and had spent years barely leaving her house. But the care and support she received have turned her life around. Now, Clare enjoys daily walks, no longer needs medication, and is excited about her very first cruise.
A perfect match
Speaking warmly of her carers, Clare said, "I knew they were extra special. I don't ever want to go, this is my home forever now. I love that they gave me a nice warm home and I feel safe."
Clare likes to give nicknames to people, and affectionately calls Kim “Posh” and Mike “Smart.” She joked, "Everybody I tell about Shared Lives asks, 'can we move in, is there any room?' There's a queue of people who want to live with Posh and Smart!"
Kim and Mike, who moved to Lancashire three years ago, had reached out to Shared Lives after deciding they wanted a new purpose in life. Mike said, "She has helped us to integrate, and we know so many people now."
Kim added, "The best bit has been changing someone's life and giving them a safe place to live. Her health has improved and I know she really appreciates our support."
Looking ahead to Christmas
The trio is looking forward to celebrating the holidays together this year. Their home is now decorated with festive items, including family heirloom decorations. Clare shared her excitement, saying, "It’s magical having Christmas here, I want it to be Christmas every day."
County Councillor Graham Dalton, cabinet member for Adult Social Care at Lancashire County Council, said, "Clare's life has been completely transformed and it's clear to see the strong bond she has with Kim and Mike, or Posh and Smart, as she calls them.
"She didn’t just find carers, she found her forever family, and I hope she inspires people to consider becoming a part of Shared Lives to create more families and change other people’s lives."
You can learn more about Shared Lives by visiting the Lancashire County Council website.