This week we are marking Shared Lives - a scheme that recruits and approves Carers from all backgrounds and introduces and matches them with individuals assessed as having a social care need.
A Shared Lives celebration event was held recently, bringing carers and families together to share stories and friendships.
Karyn Ross, who manages the Councils Shared Lives scheme, said: “I’ve worked for Shared Lives for a long time now and it’s just a lovely scheme and a natural way for someone to move from one family setting to another.
“It’s important that our families can all get together.”
An afternoon tea was organised, and the families had a great time enjoying a special time together.
Cllr Linda Bigham, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “It was a fabulous event and great to see how people share everything together - dreams, ambitions and the happy and sad moments in life. We are very lucky in Coventry that we have so many people who are willing to share their lives and care for one another. We are really blessed.”
Shared lives introduces and matching individuals who are assessed as having social care needs with Approved Shared Lives Carers who invite individuals into their family homes to share their lives.
The Council’s Scheme covers Coventry and Warwickshire and is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The Scheme is always recruiting new carers who are offered a full training programme and support during the assessment and approval. Once carers are approved, we match referrals ensuring the Carers skills, abilities and lifestyle will complement the support of an individual placed. Our Carers open their homes and lifestyle to support individuals needing extra support to live fulfilling lives in the heart of their communities. They receive a financial package as part of the scheme.
For more details call 024 7678 5339 or visit coventry.gov.uk/sharedlives
Shared Lives Carer, Lucy was one of those at the celebrations. Lucy first provided respite care for Katie and now provides long term care.
She said: “I want to be the best support that I can - and Katie has supported me in my journey of supporting her.”
Lucy said: “Katie showed me the support she needed. She was the one guiding me.”
Katie added: “Together we make a great team”
To ensure the placement was right, Katie had many visits to Lucy’s home before Katie wanted to move in long term.
Katie has a visual impairment and is someone who relies on people’s voices and always thought Lucy’s voice was very kind.
Katie’s Mum Sue, said: “I am so happy for Katie’s future, it gives me peace of mind, that Katie now has someone who will care for her as I do.”
Katie also added: “Mum can now spend time on herself, I like to know that.”
Everyone at the event wore an ‘I love shared lives’ sticker, which tells you everything about the project.
Hear from Lucy and Katie by watching the video below.