Date published: September 12, 2025
Norman’s support journey with Moray Shared Lives – “I Am Here”
Scottish Learning Disability Week 2025 (8–14 September) celebrates the achievements of people with learning disabilities across Scotland. This year’s theme “I Am Here” highlights how people can be excluded from jobs, healthcare, social events, and culture – and shows the importance of creating a Scotland where everyone belongs.
This week, we’re sharing stories from Shared Lives households in Scotland that celebrate people’s achievements and help others understand what inclusion looks like. Norman’s experience with Moray Shared Lives is one example.
Building an independent life
Norman has received support from Shared Lives since 2016. He lived with his elderly parents, with Moray Shared Lives helping him with day-to-day tasks and family support. After his parents passed away, he continued living in the family home and used Shared Lives support to start building a new, independent life.
He was matched with his current carer, Sarah, who provided practical and emotional support and helped him explore opportunities in the community to meet new people.
Building friendships
With Sarah’s support, Norman joined a local group called Branching Out. The programme ran for 12 weeks initially, but Sarah and others helped him maintain these connections. He completed another block of outdoor activities and continues to meet regularly with friends he made there, forming long-term relationships.
Sarah also encouraged Norman to engage with his local church community. He enjoys singing and participates in a local choir. Sarah explained: “The Minister has appointed Norman as a ‘welcomer’ for people arriving at the church – a role he now carries out regularly and enjoys.”
Trying new activities
Norman has taken part in cooking sessions, nature outings, bowling, and other activities through Shared Lives day support. A couple of years ago, he tried curling at the local ice rink and made many new connections, despite managing health challenges.
This year, he joined a Boccia group with the same friends to continue socialising, especially as the ice rink faces closure. Sarah has supported him through this change, helping maintain these friendships.
Ongoing support
Alongside activities, Sarah helps Norman manage mail, attend health appointments, and navigate day-to-day challenges. Norman said, “My relationship with Sarah, and her support, are very important to me.”
Norman’s story shows how Shared Lives support helps people with learning disabilities take part in their communities and proudly say: “I Am Here.”
For more information on Scottish Learning Disability Week, visit: Scottish Learning Disability Week 2025
If you would like to find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer, visit www.startyoursharedlife.today.
