Dilan soars to new heights with Shared Lives support

When Dilan first heard he would be flying a plane, he felt a mix of excitement and nerves.

“I was nervous and excited,” he said. Once in the air, he helped the pilot with flying and landing, taking an active role throughout the journey.

“Seeing Blackpool Tower and the Pleasure Beach was my favourite part,” he said. “When I landed the plane, at first I was terrified but also very excited.”

His grandparents, who gave him the flight as a birthday gift, were both proud and nervous as they watched him take to the skies.

Dilan said the experience left him feeling happy and proud. “If opportunities come, do it,” he advised others thinking about trying something new.

Dilan is supported by Shared Lives through Bolton Cares, and has been with Melissa for a year after moving from foster care when his previous carers retired.

“What’s great about Melissa is that she understands me, and I can talk to her about anything,” he said.

Melissa explained, “We talked about the flight beforehand as a chance for Dilan to achieve something special.”

Watching the flight via recording, she felt proud. “It gave him a boost of confidence and showed his relatives he can do things.”

Melissa believes moments like this highlight what is possible through Shared Lives. “You can still achieve lots while in supported care,” she said.

She became a Shared Lives carer after a career change during COVID, inspired by a colleague.

Melissa enjoys the flexibility of the role and supporting individuals like Dilan to grow in confidence and independence.

Dilan doesn’t yet have other big plans, but one thing is certain: he would love to fly again.

Thanks to Shared Lives, and the support of his carers and family, the sky really is the limit!

Watch a clip of Dilan flying:

If Dilan and Melissa’s story has inspired you, why not take off on your own journey as a Shared Lives carer?

Visit startyoursharedlife.today to find out more.