15 to 21 June is National Shared Lives Week, organised annually by Shared Lives Plus.
Shared Lives is a service for adults who need some support. This can be for a few hours every week all the way through to providing a long-term home. This is very much up to the carers, who are self-employed, and their own wishes and particular circumstances.
‘Shared Lives carers are an amazing group of people - patient, flexible, compassionate and with a great sense of fun. Their commitment to helping the people they support to realise their potential is obvious, whether this is through helping people to develop skills and confidence at home or encouraging them to take part in community life.
East Lothian Integration Joint Board Chair Councillor Fiona O’Donnell says:
‘I think the work our Shared Lives carers do should be celebrated every week of the year!
‘Before becoming a councillor I worked with local groups supporting adults with learning disabilities. I heard first hand from people who were living with local Shared Lives carers. They valued that combination of having their independence, support when they needed it and feeling part of a family. I thought it was a great idea then and am even more impressed now.
‘Shared Lives carers are an amazing group of people - patient, flexible, compassionate and with a great sense of fun. Their commitment to helping the people they support to realise their potential is obvious, whether this is through helping people to develop skills and confidence at home or encouraging them to take part in community life.
‘I can’t thank them enough for what they do and I am delighted to have the opportunity of Shared Lives Week 2020 to acknowledge what an amazing contribution they make. We are lucky to have them.
‘I’d people also like to say to people who might want to find out more about becoming a Shared Life carer, please get in touch with Louise or Anne at our Shared Lives team. They would love to have a chat, answer your questions and help you get started. Join our Shared Lives team – you won’t regret it.’
For more information about how to become a Share Lives Carer, Shared Lives East Lothian, phone Anne and Louise on 01875 824 309, sharedlives@eastlothian.gov.uk or visit www.eastlothian.gov.uk/sharedlives