Celebrating Dorset’s special carers

All this week Dorset Council is shining a light on a special group of carers who open their homes to support others.

It is national Shared Lives Week (23 - 27 June) a scheme that sees carers open their homes to people who need extra support. This offers an alternative to traditional care settings and provides day support, short breaks, or full-time care in a family environment.

And here in Dorset the county has 36 Shared Lives carers making a real difference to people’s lives.

Laura Anderton from West Dorset has been a Shared Lives carer for eight years. Currently she is providing a home and support to 21-year-old Frankie, who has care and support needs.

Frankie has made remarkable progress since moving in with Laura three years ago. He is currently studying construction at Kingston Maurward College, earning distinctions for electrical, plumbing and brickwork.

Laura said:

“Frankie enjoys a full life. He has a key to the house and the freedom to come and go. Being part of the community has encouraged him to do so much more and expand what he wants to achieve.

“By becoming a Shared Lives carer, you are giving someone the opportunity to thrive in a supportive home environment. You would be helping them to embark on a positive path in life.”

A recent survey of Shared Lives carers in Dorset highlighted many positive experiences. Carers said they enjoyed helping others and making people a new part of their families.

Overall, Shared Lives carers said being able to make a real difference to people’s lives was fulfilling. 100 per cent of carers said they would recommend Shared Lives to family and friends.

Shared Lives offers long term, respite or day care in a family setting for people aged over 16 who have learning or physical disabilities, have mental health concerns, have dementia or need extra support. To be a Shared Lives carer, people just need a kind heart and a spare room. Full training, support is provided, and carers also receive an allowance.

Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Cllr Steve Robinson, said: “We all need to be surrounded by people who love, care, appreciate and accept us. The shared lives approach emphasises independence, person-centred care, and community integration.

“It’s a flexible, rewarding role where no two days are the same and you make a real difference by welcoming someone into your home and life.”

Anyone interested in finding out how to become a Shared Lives carer can go to www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/shared-lives