By Chloe Calver
You’d think that writing about my experience as a Shared Lives would be easy, but there isn’t a typical day being a PSS Shared Lives carer. Every day is a new day, a new experience, a new lesson, and to me, every day is a family day.
Starting my carer journey at 26
When I started my journey as a Shared Lives carer, I was 26 years old, and my daughter had just turned one. When we welcomed our first person into our home, I was overjoyed. Not only did I find a role that gave me an income while staying at home with my daughter, but that day, we gained a new member of our family.
Now my daughter is four, and we have three people living with us under the PSS Shared Lives scheme. She thinks the world of them, and they play together and care for each other. Our family feels complete.
Family at the heart of Shared Lives
‘Working’ as a Shared Lives carer is a strange concept to me because it doesn’t feel like work. I spend my days supporting people, yes, but it’s no different from how I care for my family. The people I care for aren’t just individuals I support – they’ve become family. That’s what makes this role so special. It’s called Shared Lives for a reason – you’re sharing your life, your home, and your family with someone who needs it.
I didn’t just want to offer someone a home – I wanted to offer them a family, and I’m so glad I did. It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
Growing up with a Nanny who was a Shared Lives carer, I saw firsthand what the role was like. The people she supported were a huge part of our family, and their lives were entwined with ours. That’s why I became a Shared Lives carer. I didn’t just want to offer someone a home – I wanted to offer them a family, and I’m so glad I did. It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.
It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it
Of course, there are challenging days – days where issues come up that need to be overcome. But with the support PSS offers, no issue is too big, no question too silly, and no request too large. Even when the office is closed, out-of-hours support is there, and they’re just as supportive as my local team. The whole team at PSS has been so helpful, guiding, supportive, and approachable. That’s what makes them a great organisation to work with.
What Shared Lives has taught my daughter
This journey hasn’t just impacted me – it’s shaped my daughter, too. She’s learned to appreciate the differences we all have, and more importantly, to see the unique qualities that make us who we are. She’s kind, open, and understanding, even of people with different communication needs, and I’m so proud of her for that. Being a Shared Lives carer has given me a sense of purpose, and next to being a mother, it’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve done. I can honestly say I love my job.
Why you should think about becoming a Shared Lives carer
If you’re thinking about becoming a Shared Lives carer, take that first step and find out more. You won’t regret it. The people you support will appreciate you and the difference you make in their lives, and you’ll appreciate them, too – for the impact they have on yours.