Briony fulfils her dream of visiting Butlin’s

The visit came after adults from My Day Care Services, NHS Somerset and biggerhouse film collaborated on a video about the importance of discussing death. The film, We Need To Talk About Death, explores people’s views on death, how they’d like to be remembered and the language surrounding death and grief.

Participants also shared their ‘bucket lists’ – experiences they hope to achieve in their lifetime. For Briony, visiting a theme park was top of her list, and she was thrilled to part of the group that enjoyed a day at Butlin’s. 

Butlin’s hosted the group, offering access to the resort’s fairground, live shows and a variety of activities. Briony said:

“I felt famous being involved in the film. It was very challenging, but good to know we would be helping others to understand how they feel and think about death and dying. Going to Butlins was good. I loved the food, especially the gluten-free hunter’s chicken! The tour of Butlins was amazing and I loved colouring in the art centre. I still have things to achieve on my bucket list. I love watching Disney and would love to see a Disney show. I also like listening to music and would love to see Busted in concert.” 

The documentary, commissioned by NHS Somerset, premiered in Taunton last April and was screened during Dying Matters Week to encourage more open conversations about death. 

Amanda Maggs, Somerset Team Leader at Shared Lives South West, said Briony’s story is a great example of how Shared Lives helps people lead fulfilling lives.

“Briony shows how Shared Lives adapts to the person’s development. She’s lived with three different carers at different stages. When she first came into Shared Lives, she didn’t have many independent skills, so she was taught many things within in a nurturing environment. Overtime she became more independent and now, in her current home, she’s probably telling them what to do!” 

Amanda encourages anyone thinking about becoming a Shared Lives carer to “jump in with both feet.” She describes the role as “ordinary people doing everyday things that make an extraordinary difference.”  

“It’s not always about big moments like theme parks —it’s about taking time for the small things, like making breakfast and choosing what you’re going to have or wanting to go to the cinema without waiting for staff rotas to make it possible.” 

“People describe Shared Lives as ‘grown up fostering,’ but it’s more than that. For me, it’s more akin to what birds do – they nurture their young while they need the nest, but they’re not afraid to encourage them to take risks. You’ve got to know when to be quiet and when to step in. That’s what Shared Lives is – encouraging a person to take risks but being there to catch them if they need you.” 

If you are interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, visit Start Your Shared Life Today.