Honouring long-service: Shared Lives carers attend the King’s Garden Party

Hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla, alongside Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh, the event was the first of the season. Each Summer, Royal Garden Parties take place to honour members of the public for community service, with around 30,000 people attending across the events.

Held in the beautiful grounds of Buckingham Palace, Shared Lives carers and the people they support had a wonderful day, enjoying tea, sandwiches and cakes, music and the opportunity to meet others being recognised. Luckily the weather held out (mainly!)

Many of the carers who attended the Garden Party have devoted decades to supporting people through Shared Lives; offering friendship, stability and a true sense of home.

Members of Shared Lives Plus who attended described the invitation as a proud moment and an important recognition of the sector’s contribution to social care across the UK.

Lynne Harrison, Operation Director said, “It was a brilliant day and wonderful to meet up with as many Shared Lives households as we could! Those who attended are a true representation of our members across the UK, carers who open up with their homes, share their lives and support people to live well – we thank you all for your dedication, and are proud of your commitment and long-service.”