New Next Chapter profile: Andrew’s journey from residential care to a Shared Lives home

At 16, Andrew* was living in residential care, out of college and heavily reliant on others. With the support of a Shared Lives carer, he’s rebuilding his routine, returning to college and learning independent living skills at a pace that suits him.

Through Shared Lives, Andrew has found the stability and encouragement to grow in confidence – developing new routines, re-engaging with his education, and taking steady steps towards greater independence.

Andrew’s journey shows how Shared Lives can bridge the gap between children’s and adult services for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), offering a nurturing home environment that helps them prepare emotionally and practically for adult life.

Get a glimpse of Andrew’s journey in this short flipbook, then discover his full story at the link below.

Read Andrew’s Next Chapter

This profile is part of our national programme with more than 30 Shared Lives schemes across the UK, working to embed Shared Lives as a core option for care leavers with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

For more information about the programme, contact:
Rachel Leslie, Strategic Advisor for People Leaving Care and Transitions
07931 561256
rachel.leslie@sharedlivesplus.org.uk

*Name changed.