Kiki and Matthew Hern, Shared Lives carers from Pontypool won a Silver Award for Excellence in Learning Disability & Mental Health Services at the Wales Care Awards. They were nominated by South East Wales Shared Lives Coordinator, Gemma McNamara
Since joining the scheme in 2017, Kiki and Matthew have opened their home to people with learning disabilities, mental health, autism, and complex behaviours. They balance warmth and patience with a focus on independence – all while raising their own three children and caring for a variety of pets.
“Kiki is incredibly calm and patient,” Gemma says. “When challenges come up, she doesn’t just react. She always looks for the cause behind the issue. She sees potential in everyone she supports.”
One young man moved in with the couple after turning 18 and leaving foster care. His previous carers believed he couldn’t manage tasks independently, such as handling money or travelling. Within a few months of living with Kiki and Matthew, he was going out independently, making friends, and planning outings to celebrate his birthday. “Seeing him grow in confidence has been amazing,” Gemma says. “They gave him space to be independent while letting him know he had their support.” Kiki is now helping him budget and save for his dream trip to Florida.
The couple also have a self-contained flat on their property, where several individuals have been given the opportunity to build on their independence. This is now occupied by another gentleman supported through the scheme. “He’s made incredible progress,” says Gemma. “His family has seen a big change in him – he’s more confident and secure.”
With their own personal experiences of autism within the family, Kiki and Matthew’s motivation comes from wanting to build a more inclusive community. “They hope that if their children ever need support, there’d be a service like this for them, too” says Gemma.
Gemma nominated Kiki and Matthew for the strengths and teamwork they bring to their roles as Shared Lives carers. “They are an amazing example of how a shared home can provide stability, growth, and a sense of family. They create an environment where everyone feels valued and supported as individuals.”
The South East Wales Shared Lives Scheme, part of a partnership funded by the Aneurin Bevan Health Board and local social care services, supports people across seven counties.
