Shared Lives Week celebrations have begun early in Rotherham

Celebrations began with a treasure hunt around Todwick which was organised by a Shared Lives carer and three Shared Lives customers.

Later this week, a funday will be hosted at Winthrop Gardens where Shared Lives carers can get involved in arts and crafts, and playing games, with plenty of refreshments available. Winthrop Gardens has worked closely with Shared Lives over the years, so hosting an event here is a great way to honour the team in such a special place.

And a final event will be an evening out at the Drawbridge pub in Kimberworth followed by a game of bowling.

The events organised are focused on celebrating not only the hard work and dedication our carers but about celebrating shared experiences and common interests.

Rotherham Council’s Shared Lives community is made up of a committed network of carers who provide care and support to people over the age of 18 who wish to live independently within their community.

Mum, Julia, whose son James is receiving support, said: “Shared Lives has completely changed our lives for the better. James’s carer is so incredibly supportive of our family and makes us feel like we really are part of theirs. I cannot believe what a positive difference it has made to James, he even packs his own bag ready to go which he would never do before. We cannot thank Shared Lives enough for turning our lives around.”

Rotherham Council’s Cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Health, Cllr David Roche, said: “Shared Lives is an amazing scheme which offers extra support and care to people living with disabilities. Each carer provides the necessary help and advice to live independently and explore a variety of opportunities available to them. This scheme is one that Rotherham is extremely proud of, and I would like to say a big thank you to every carer who is part of it for everything they do.”

For further information or to become a Shared Lives carer, please visit our website.