Joyce’s Shared Lives journey continues to thrive

During Shared Lives Week, which runs from 15 to 19 June, Nottinghamshire County Council is celebrating the role professional carers play in enabling people with support needs to live in a family setting they can call home, with care and support that is built around the person’ needs and interests.

To recognise and celebrate Shared Lives carers’ contribution and to thank them for the difference they make, various activities have been arranged during the week. There will be a picnic, arts and craft events, a singer, quizzes and games for Shared Lives carers to take part in along with the people they care for.

The theme this year is Shout about Shared Lives – care worth talking about. One Shared Lives story which demonstrates the care worth talking about is Joyce’s journey.

Since moving in with her Shared Lives carer Mary, who is 86, in June 2016 Joyce has built a warm, positive and stable home life.

The arrangement began following the death of Joyce’s husband, who had been her main carer, and has gone from strength to strength over the years. A key part of this has been Joyce’s strong connection to the local area. Already familiar with Mapperley, she was able to settle and remain connected to a community she knew well.

Joyce, who is 77, has described living with Mary as an “important part of her life” and has said that she feels very much part of Mary’s family.

Joyce continues to lead an active and full life. She regularly attends day opportunities funded by the county council, spends time with her own family, and takes part in Shared Lives events. She also enjoys attending two clubs. Through one of these clubs, Joyce has enjoyed several trips and activities, including many holidays. Highlights have been a trip to Ireland last year, and a recent trip to Blackpool with her group members and Mary.

Joyce’s health and general welfare are supported. With Mary’s help, she attends all her required health appointments, including annual health checks. She also takes part in review meetings with social work teams, where her care and support arrangements are discussed to make sure they continue to meet her needs. She also takes part in review meetings with social work teams, where her care and support arrangements are discussed to make sure they continue to meet her needs. Mary provides strong advocacy, ensuring Joyce’s voice is represented and her best interests are promoted.

Joyce’s family, brother-in-law, her niece and nephew also remain involved in her life, visiting regularly and staying in touch. They have said that everyone is pleased with the care and support Joyce receives, and Joyce has spoken warmly about how much she values her life with Mary.

Cllr Barry Answer, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Nottinghamshire County Council said: “Joyce’s story is a positive example which demonstrates that Shared Lives supports not only the everyday practical aspects of care, but also provides a sense of belonging, connection to the local community, and enjoyment of activities and quality of life.

“Our Shared Lives scheme provides an opportunity for adults who need support to live independently. The scheme is delivered by trained and approved carers through the Council’s Shared Lives Scheme. Shared Lives carers open their own homes to the people they support, who then become part of the family. Our Shared Lives carers who open their homes and lives often say that their own lives are changed and enriched just as much as the people they care for.

“I would like to recognise the immense contribution Shared Lives carers make and thank them for the lasting difference they make to people’s lives. If you think you could be a Shared Lives carer, visit our website to find out more: Shared Lives | Nottinghamshire County Council"