Lizzie: Lifesaver and community hero with Shared Lives Fife

Shared Lives provides an environment for supported people to thrive, as shown by Lizzie in Fife. Lizzie is a bright, energetic, young woman who initially received support in a long-term placement with Shared Lives carers. As part of Fife Council’s Adult Services, Shared Lives Fife has provided family-based care since 1987 to adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities, mental health challenges, and other sensory disabilities.

After several years, and with the support and encouragement of her Shared Lives carers, Lizzie moved into her own home. Now living independently, Lizzie continues to benefit from day support with the same Shared Lives carers. Their ongoing care and encouragement has helped Lizzie to further build her confidence. This includes volunteering a few days a week at a local charity shop, a role she loves.

In October 2023, Lizzie demonstrated just how far she’s come by using her first aid life skills to save a man’s life.

As part of Shared Lives Fife, Lizzie regularly attends the ‘Speak Your Mind’ group, which meets every six weeks. In June 2023, the group arranged for St Andrews First Aid to deliver a CPR training session. Just a few months later, Lizzie found herself putting that training into action.

One afternoon in October, Lizzie was on her way home on a double decker bus when two young girls alerted the driver to a man slumped over in his seat. Two other passengers managed to get the man onto the floor and the driver asked if anyone knew how to perform CPR. When no one else responded, Lizzie stepped forward, remembering her training. Despite the tight space, she administered CPR until paramedics arrived and took over. They rushed the man to the hospital, and Lizzie continued her journey home, buzzing with adrenaline. Later that evening, she shared the incredible story with her Shared Lives carers.

After the incident, Lizzie shared her story with the’ Speak Your Mind’ group and felt inspired to give back. She wanted to thank the Ambulance Service for the life-saving training she had received.

In June 2024, Lizzie led a fundraising effort within Shared Lives Fife, organising an inclusive triathlon at Lochore Meadows in Fife. The sponsored event was a huge success, raising funds that were donated to the Ambulance Service.

Lizzie continues to make a difference in her community. She volunteers regularly at a local Cancer Research charity shop, giving her time selflessly, despite her own challenges.

Lizzie inspires everyone around her to be better and do better for their own communities.