If you’re looking for an opportunity to make a difference to the life of an adult needing support, then find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer this Shared Lives Week (24 – 28 June).
Knowsley’s Shared Lives Service recruits carers to provide home-based care for adults who have long-term support needs – but want to live in the community.
Where can I find out more?
The team from Shared Lives will be out and about in a bid to recruit more Shared Lives hosts. To find out more, visit the team at:
Kirkby Town Centre, (near the tree on Newtown Gardens) Tuesday, 25 June, 10.30am – 3.30pm
Huyton Town Centre (near Iceland), on Thursday, 27 June, 10.30am – 3.30pm
Prescot Town Centre (junction of Leyland St & Eccleston St) Friday, 28 June, 10.30am – 3.30pm
They will explain that there are lots of ways people can get involved with the Shared Lives scheme. They can offer a permanent home to someone, or short break support to give permanent carers a break. Recruits will receive payment, training and 24/7 support.
Both families and individuals of any age can get involved with Shared Lives – which offers a great opportunity for anyone seeking a new challenge, or maybe approaching retirement.
If you’re interested in getting involved in Shared Lives, contact 0151 443 2060.
The Shared Lives Service is part of Knowsley Council’s Adult Provider Services – the council’s in house provider of services for adults needing additional support.
Shared Lives carer Jackie shares her story
Becoming a Shared Lives carer has given Jackie Brownwigg from Kirkby and the three young adults she carers for a new lease of life.
Joining the scheme has enabled Jackie to enjoy a fulfilling early retirement – and providing a supportive and loving home to her new family members is helping them develop newfound skills, confidence, and friendships.
Having spent her career as a social worker, Jackie, 56, is now retired. Her role as a Shared Lives carer has meant she was able to take this step, and she will continue to provide care within her home throughout her retirement.
The matching process from Knowsley’s Shared Lives scheme resulted in Jackie being matched with three young adults with support needs – who she cares for at her home.
Jackie and Bradley
Bradley, 20, had previously lived in lodgings offering support up to the age of 18. As he didn’t feel ready to take the step to live independently, his social worker referred him to Shared Lives. He spent three or four nights at Jackie’s house before officially starting their arrangement.
“When you move in by yourself you are alone, and it can be very intimidating for a young adult to go into that type of environment,” says Bradley.
During his time living with Jackie Bradley feels he’s been supported to pick up vital day-to-day life skills.
He added: “In the past, I’ve had things done for me – with Jackie I’m prompted to do things so I can pick them up myself.”
Jackie has a son and daughter, as well as three grandchildren who visit regularly and she is delighted that the young adults she carers for have embraced their newfound family life.
Bradley has built a close friendship with Riley, who is also supported by Jackie. The pair bonded over their love for the fantasy game Dungeons and Dragons. They regularly visit the Geek Retreat in Liverpool city centre and have introduced each other to their respective set of friends.
Bradley is now excited about his future and hopes to fulfil his dream to work with animals. “Employment wise I just want to work with animals, preferably with the RSPCA. Animals are just better than people to be honest,” Bradley joked.
With the help of Jackie, Bradley and Riley have picked up key skills that help with everyday life. They have both now gained the confidence to think about what their futures might look like and are taking steps to make their dreams a reality.
Find out more about Shared Lives
To enquire about becoming a carer with Knowsley Shared Lives ring 0151 433 2060 or visit the Knowsley Council website. For more information about Shared Lives, please visit: https://startyoursharedlife.today/