“It simply feels natural”: Why Sam wants to shout about Shared Lives

Leigh originally lived with Sam’s parents, who were her Shared Lives carers until their retirement in 2020. “As a family, we all felt strongly that we wanted to continue that stability and familiarity for Leigh, so after going through panel approval, my husband and I became Shared Lives carers ourselves.”

Although Sam officially became Leigh’s Shared Lives carer in 2020, Leigh had already been a huge part of her life for many years so the transition felt natural for everyone involved.

Sam’s daughter Belle was only three years old when Leigh moved in permanently and is now eight. “She has simply grown up seeing Shared Lives as a normal part of family life.”

For Sam, one of the biggest misconceptions about Shared Lives is that it means welcoming a stranger into your home. “People often imagine Shared Lives as inviting a stranger into your home, but for us, Leigh was never a stranger. She was already part of our extended family.”

Sam is also honest about the realities of Shared Lives. Like any family arrangement, there can be challenges at times. However, she says the support provided through Shared Lives helps everyone maintain balance and independence. “Leigh enjoys time away with other Shared Lives carers during the year, which works really well for all of us.”

Looking back, Sam says Shared Lives has become a natural part of family life. “For our family, Shared Lives is about making life meaningful and inclusive. We celebrate birthdays, organise Easter egg hunts, make Christmas special and enjoy everyday routines together. It doesn’t feel forced or clinical – it simply feels natural.”

When asked what Shared Lives means to her family, Sam’s answer is simple: “Shared Lives has shown us that care does not have to mean giving up your whole life. For us, it has become part of our family life in a way that is rewarding, supportive and full of genuine connection.”

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’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.