Date published: 2026-06-15 | Category: Adult Social Care and Health
Amazing carers across Bath & North East Somerset Council, who open their homes and lives to support people in their community, are being celebrated during Share Lives Week (15-21 June).
The Shared Lives Scheme helps adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to live independently, by matching them with a carer who can provide live-in arrangements, short breaks or day-time support.
As part of Shared Lives Week, the council is highlighting just some of the “life-changing” support and unique friendships created through the scheme.
Shared Lives carer Terry has been caring for D for nineteen years, in what his mum describes as “a massively good match”. Together they enjoy days out to the beach, coffee trips, luxury car spotting and getting the bus to Bristol Airport to plane watch. D says Terry is a “really good guy” who is “very kind, supportive and easy to talk to. I make a plan with him, and he takes me there.”
D’s mother says that D was isolated before meeting Terry and having a consistent, trusted person in his life has helped him become more confident and has enabled him to meet new people. She said “It’s not just a work relationship, Terry has totally changed our lives as a family. I know D is happy. To anybody thinking about becoming a Shared Lives carer, they must do it. It will make a big difference.”
Sue has been caring for R for several years, taking him on day trips as well as walking Sue's dogs and spending time at her home with her family - which R says is his “favourite thing” to do and that “Sue is the best support worker.” They also cook meals from scratch together to support R to develop his independent living skills and improve his overall health.
Sue ensures R remains active in the community to help his confidence, independence and wellbeing and said: “The relationship is much more than a traditional care arrangement, they become part of your family. “I just want him to enjoy himself and be happy.”
Councillor Alison Born, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “Shared Lives is so much more than providing practical care and support – it is creating meaningful, long-term connections and friendships based on shared interests, trust and mutual respect. It is wonderful to see the positive impact these matches have, not only on the individual receiving care, but also their families and our carers – who truly are sharing their lives.”
Shared Lives carers can offer support on a full-time, daytime, or respite basis. The carers receive a fee for their work/role.
R visiting Lacock Abbey National Trust with support from carer, Sue.
R practicing his baking skills with the help of carer, Sue, and support co-ordinator, Wendy.