Carer Becomes 'Best Friend' in Shared Lives Success

A heartwarming example of the Shared Lives scheme highlights the profound bond between carer Jane and Victoria, 26. For the past seven years, Jane has opened her home in Northampton to Victoria, who has a mild learning disability. What began as a supported living arrangement has blossomed into a deep friendship, with both describing themselves as "best friends and family."

Victoria, who moved in with Jane at 18 after her previous living situation proved unsuitable, expressed newfound stability and a sense of belonging. She likened the matching process to "dating," involving shared activities before she moved in, leading to college success and friendships. Jane, who found traditional fostering and adoption options didn't feel right, discovered immense personal fulfillment through Shared Lives.

Shared Lives, a charity initiative spanning four decades, has recently expanded to support young people transitioning from care. This expansion directly addresses the critical issue of homelessness among care leavers, with one project officer noting that 33% face this challenge within two years of leaving care. The program provides essential guidance for navigating jobs, finances, and education, with over 10,000 individuals across the UK currently participating as carers.