Paula and Steve win 2025 Shared Lives Care Award in Sheffield

Paula and Steve were recognised for their commitment to caring for a young person with complex needs. The judges praised their exceptional care:

“Paula and Steve are deeply committed carers. They provide exceptional support with consistency and compassion. Paula has spent many nights sleeping on the floor to ensure their young person’s safety, while Steve takes care of the household responsibilities. Their level of care is outstanding.”

The couple began fostering in 2004 when their biological children were 11, 10 and four. They fostered both babies and older children, and in 2011, adopted their son. In 2013, they welcomed Sharnay and her sister. After many temporary placements, they decided to offer them a permanent, loving home.

Sharnay faced severe mental health challenges, requiring numerous hospital stays and treatments. Despite these difficulties, Paula and Steve never gave up. When Sharnay turned 18 and was ready to transition from a secure unit back into the community, Paula and Steve joined Shared Lives so she could return to their home, where the whole family continues to support her.

The ceremony, hosted by Ian Donaghy, left him moved by their story: “The world can’t be broken if there are people like this in it.”

Other nominees included Sandra Scott and Vicky Bennett, recognised for their compassion and dedication.

Sandra began fostering C and his brother A in 2006 when C was 8 years old. Diagnosed with psychosis, ADHD, autism and attachment disorder, C required ongoing care. Sandra joined Shared Lives when C turned 18, knowing he would need continued support. Sandra and her family have provided C with therapeutic interventions and ongoing mental health care. The judges praised Sandra Scott for her dedication:

“Sandra is a strong woman who cares with kindness, love, and compassion. She provides a safe and supportive home for the people she cares for and is always there when they need her.”

Vicky Bennett has cared for J since he was five, becoming a Shared Lives carer and providing a long-term placement when J turned 18. She also offer respite and day care for another young man. The judges commended Vicky for her life-changing impact:

“Vicky has supported a young man since he was a child. Thanks to her dedication, he has exceeded all expectations. Doctors once said he would never communicate verbally, but now he speaks for himself, lives independently, and enjoys a fulfilling life.”

Inspired to become a Shared Lives carer? Visit Start Your Shared Life Today.

For more information on Shared Lives in Sheffield visit: Shared Lives Sheffield.