Have you ever wondered how one act of kindness can change someone’s life forever? Meet Trevor – a talented woodworker and a proud member of the Shared Lives family for over 32 years. Through the care and encouragement of his Shared Lives carer, Trevor has found purpose, creativity, and a sense of pride.
He tells all in his blog…
By Trevor, supported by Chrissie with PSS Shared Lives Wales
Hello, my name is Trevor, and over the last three decades, Shared Lives has given me a home, support, and encouragement to grow into the person I am today.
Discovering my passion for woodwork
My love for woodwork started when I was at Botwnnog School, where I made a bench at home. Woodwork has always come naturally to me, and it’s been a big part of my life ever since.
After I had a mental breakdown, I attended a wood workshop at Ysbyty Gwynedd and later at Bryn Y Neuadd for over ten years. Those workshops gave me focus and purpose. Now I live in Llanddulas with Chrissie, my Shared Lives carer, who has supported me every step of the way.
Chrissie has encouraged me to try new things with my woodwork. I’ve made Tudor roses for my mam and friends, log stores, and birdhouses for owls, swifts, and woodpeckers. Doing these projects helps me connect with others, share my skills, and even sell some of my work.
Doing these projects helps me connect with others, share my skills, and even sell some of my work.
My favourite projects
One of my favorite projects was making a reindeer from the wood of a fallen tree. It took me around three weeks to finish, alongside other projects. I came up with my own method to drill holes for the legs at just the right angle. The hardest part was getting the reindeer to stand up without wobbling, but my workshop made it easier with its level floor.
Woodwork helps me relax and gives me time to do things my way, without distractions. It’s good for my mental health, calming me down and giving me something I’m proud of. When I finish a piece, it makes me feel special.
‘Woodwork helps me relax and gives me time to do things my way, without distractions. It’s good for my mental health, calming me down and giving me something I’m proud of. When I finish a piece, it makes me feel special.’
Chrissie has also given me my own workshop space, where I can work whenever I like. She shares ideas with me and lets me use her wood (with permission, of course!). For Christmas one year, she gave me a pine table top, and I turned it into two chopping boards – one for her and one for my sister. They loved them and use them all the time.
Helping my community
I also use my woodwork to give back to the community. I made a hat stand in the shape of a Christmas tree for the local library. People knit hats to hang on it, and anyone who needs a hat can take one for free.
During Covid, Chrissie made Easter gift packs, and I made 32 small wooden crosses from a pallet to include in them. It felt good to do something that made people happy during such a difficult time.
Plans for the future
Looking ahead, I want to improve my carving skills and learn how to whittle. I also want to sharpen my tools properly so I can take my work to the next level.
Shared Lives isn’t just a service – it’s my family, my inspiration, and the support that’s helped me create a life I’m proud of.
Want to make a difference?
Shared Lives carers like Chrissie make a world of difference. They don’t just provide care – they help people like Trevor discover our passions, feel proud of their achievements, and give back to their communities.
If you’ve ever thought about becoming a Shared Lives carer, you could be the person who changes someone’s life. Why not find out more? Get in touch today