Home, friendship and recovery: Lorraine and Stuart’s Shared Lives story

Lorraine and Stuart had been friends for more than 10 years before Shared Lives became part of their lives. Stuart was living with Lorraine as a lodger and enjoying an active life surrounded by people and interests he loved.

When Stuart had a stroke, Lorraine began looking for a way to support him once he was ready to leave hospital.

“I found out about Shared Lives while Stuart was in hospital recovering from a stroke. The available care for Stuart to be discharged to wasn’t a good fit for him. However, Shared Lives seemed ideally suited for our situation,” Lorraine explained.

At the time, Lorraine was working full-time in a local mill while supporting Stuart through his recovery. Becoming a Shared Lives carer made it possible for Stuart to leave hospital and return to a familiar home environment.

“After giving up my job and becoming a Shared Lives carer, the relief I felt was immense. It allowed Stuart to finally be discharged from hospital and return home where he wanted to be. Having the opportunity that Shared Lives provides for me to care for Stuart means the world to us.”

Today, Stuart lives with Lorraine through Shared Lives Scottish Borders, managed by Cornerstone. For Stuart, the arrangement means he can continue living alongside someone he knows and trusts. “Being with Lorraine is like being at home,” he says.

With support tailored around his needs, Stuart continues to make good progress in his recovery and enjoys the activities and relationships that matter most to him.

These days, much of life revolves around shared interests. Lorraine and Stuart both enjoy the countryside and agriculture. They attend sheepdog trials, go walking and spend time with their dogs.

“Now that I don’t have to work at the mill, I can provide Stuart with the support he needs. Stuart and I share lots of common interests and throughout the week we enjoy doing activities together.”

Stuart enjoys being outdoors, spending time in the garden and going out for meals. He has also become a valued member of Lorraine’s wider family and enjoys spending time at her brother’s farm.

“It’s been very rewarding being able to provide Stuart with the care he requires and seeing the positive impact this has had on Stuart’s life. Stuart has a great sense of humour and there’s never a dull moment with him. He’s become part of my family.”

Lorraine had concerns when she first started the process of becoming a Shared Lives carer. “The aspect of being self-employed felt daunting at the beginning,” she says.

However, she says the support from the Shared Lives team helped build her confidence. “They supported me through the entire process, training was provided and they continue to support Stuart and me. They’re always available if we need help.”

For anyone thinking about becoming a Shared Lives carer, Lorraine’s advice is simple. “For anyone who’s a caring person and is considering becoming a carer, I would recommend Shared Lives. The positive effect it has had on my life and Stuart’s life has been rewarding and enjoyable, and every day is different.”

When asked to sum up Shared Lives, Lorraine doesn’t hesitate: “It’s fulfilling and you can get the best out of life for everybody. It’s not a one-way street – it’s shared experiences that bring happiness on both sides.”

If you’re interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, visit www.startyoursharedlife.today and get in touch with your local Shared Lives scheme to find out more.

Get involved with this year’s Shared Lives Week and support us to ‘Shout about Shared Lives’ and ‘tell one person’ so that more people can be supported, and more lives can change.