Celebrating world social work month – Steve and Kelly

Steve (61) and Kelly (58) have been foster carers for over 15 years with their local authority.

“Natasha came to us when she was 9, and as she turned 18, we explored options for her to stay with us,” Kelly says. “She was part of the family, and she wanted to stay too. After meeting with Dorset Shared Lives, we were impressed with the staff and organisation, so we became Shared Lives Carers four years ago.”

Steve and Kelly are strong supporters of the Shared Lives model. “Shared Lives brings together people across generations,” says Steve. “Carers and those they care for often come from different age groups, creating opportunities for different generations to live together and learn from one another.”

As they became more involved with Shared Lives, Steve and Kelly made the decision to stop fostering and focus on adult social care. “Through Shared Lives, we’ve met many wonderful people in similar situations, as well as incredible individuals of all ages, whom we might not have considered supporting before,” says Steve. “The rewards of spending time with them, providing new experiences, and supporting them in their independence are huge.”

Together, they enjoy a range of activities. “We eat out, go to the theatre and cinema, attend family events, walk the dogs, visit places of interest and take holidays in Spain” Kelly says. “We also encourage independence by involving everyone in tasks like food preparation, cleaning, tidying their rooms, changing bedding, maintaining hygiene, and managing money while shopping.”

There have been challenges along the way. Natasha, now age 22, has experienced significant losses, including the death of her grandfather, her previous foster carer and her mother.

“We’ve always been there for Natasha during these tough times,” Steve explains. “We sought professional advice and arranged counselling. Last year, we lost a young lady who had stayed with us regularly and was a close friend to Natasha. It affected all of us, particularly since it was so unexpected. But now we share our fond memories and, when appropriate, celebrate their lives.”

Steve and Kelly make it a point to talk openly with the people they support. About important issues. “We talk through situations to help them understand how they feel and what’s important to them,” Steve says.

Over the years, Natasha has learned many lessons from Steve and Kelly. “Natasha has been with us most of her life, so she’s learned a great deal,” Kelly says. “Others we’ve supported, even for shorter periods, have built confidence, developed greater independence, and hopefully had a lot of laughs!”

A key part of Steve and Kelly’s approach is supporting those drawing on Shared Lives to make decisions about their future. “It’s a process of exploring options, listening to their views, gathering information, and having discussions with everyone involved, including professionals,” Kelly explains.

Through it all, Steve and Kelly feel deeply rewarded seeing the progress of those they support. “It’s been incredible to watch Natasha and others grow in confidence, perform in front of large audiences, achieve educational goals, enjoy hobbies and gain independence,” Kelly says.  “It’s also rewarding to know that the people we’ve provided respite to are always happy to return.”

Having worked alongside social workers for over 20 years, Steve and Kelly understand the challenges these professionals face. “We know how mammoth and often thankless the work of social workers can be,” Steve says. “World Social Work Month helps raise awareness of the important role social workers play and why their work is so vital – something many don’t fully understand.”

If Steve and Kelly’s story has inspired you to become a Shared Lives carer, visit Start Your Shared Life Today 

For more information on World Social Work Month, visit World Social Work Month 2025 | BASW