More than a place to live – Jason’s story of belonging, love and independence

From the moment he joined their household, Gary and Tim provided the consistency, encouragement and understanding that Jason needed. With a stable home environment and trusted people around him, he began to feel more secure and confident about the future. 

Shared Lives not only gave Jason somewhere to live, but also provided him with the confidence, stability and sense of a secure environment he needed. It gave him the opportunity to build routines, develop his independence and become an active part of his community.  

Tim supported Jason to explore volunteering opportunities and discover new interests. Before long, Jason was helping with Tim’s record business, attending local venues and meeting new people. 

Inspired by the support he had received himself; Jason developed a strong desire to give back. 

Today, he volunteers with Stockport Canal boat trust (New Horizons) and at his local church, where his confidence has continued to flourish. His commitment and enthusiasm have even led him to undertake an Authorised Lay Minister course. Jason is keen to develop his skills to support future paid employment.  

Maintaining relationships with his family has always been important to Jason, but travelling independently was something he wanted to achieve for himself. 

With support and encouragement, he gradually built the skills and confidence needed to travel on his own. He now visits family regularly, strengthening those important connections and enjoying greater independence.  

Jason has always been open about the impact that routine, stability and consistent support have on his wellbeing. He recognises that having the right support around him has helped him thrive. It was from this strong foundation that the most important chapter of his life began. In 2024, Jason met Martin. 

With the continued support of Gary and Tim, their relationship blossomed. Together they built a loving partnership, sharing new experiences and creating plans for the future. In 2025, the couple became engaged and enjoyed their first holiday abroad together. Now, they are looking forward to their wedding in August 2026. “Marriage is a firm commitment of someone who is willing to throw their hat in the ring and risk it all…. for love,” says Jason. 

Martin has been warmly welcomed into Jason’s Shared Lives family and understands the importance of Jason’s routines, wellbeing and ongoing connection with Gary and Tim. Martin has chosen to relocate his life so that Jason can remain close to the people and support network that have helped him flourish. He has sold his apartment in Manchester and is now renting a property in Stockport, ensuring that Jason can continue to see the people that are important to him.  

As Jason prepares to move on from Shared Lives and into married life, he will continue to receive support through Adult Social Care. The approach will be light-touch, helping him maintain the routines, community involvement and independence he has worked so hard to build, while embracing the opportunities and responsibilities of married life. 

His story is a powerful reminder that Shared Lives is about having the freedom and support to build the life you choose, With the same understanding the relationship is built on neutral respect. Jason is looking forward to his future but still feels it remains uncertain as it does for everyone.  

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. 

If you think someone you know could benefit from Shared Lives, find your local scheme and reach out to them for a discussion.