Shared Lives is different for everyone. Depending on a person’s goals depends on how long they’ll be in their Shared Lives arrangement.
For Andrew, who joined Shared Lives as soon as he left foster care at 18, he knew his goal for the future was to move into his own place as soon as he felt ready to.
After six years that’s exactly what his Shared Lives carers helped him to do.
Andrew moved from his foster home in London to his first Shared Lives arrangement in Norfolk in 2018.
With Shared Lives he built up his independence and continued working part-time, something he’s been committed to for years.
In June 2021, Andrew moved in with Shared Lives carers, Shion and Del Roy. They’ve been such a big support, helping Andrew grow and work towards his personal goals and soon enough, Andrew started bidding on properties in his local area.
In August of this year, his dream came true – Andrew got the keys to his very own flat!
Shared Lives isn’t just a job – it’s about building real, meaningful connections. Andrew’s carers shared their home, their daily life, even their favourite spot on the couch, just like they would with family. Now, Andrew can proudly say he’s got his own place, but he’ll always have the support and friendships he made through Shared Lives.