Date published: November 13, 2019
Shared Lives champion of 2019 – winner!
This award is for a Shared Lives carer or scheme worker from Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England who has promoted Shared Lives most in their area.
Winner: Kate Morgan, Camphill Village Trust scheme manager, Dudley
Kate stood out to the judging panel for her passion, ability to make lasting connections and sheer willpower to demonstrate the amazing difference that Shared Lives makes regionally.
Since the inception of the scheme two years ago, Kate has:
- Worked closely with local authority commissioners and steering groups resulting in 76 enquiries and 42 referrals in first 12 months.
- Embedded the Quality Framework and Shared Lives carer charter, resulting in being rated as GOOD by CQC after only six months in operation. Recruited over 20 Shared Lives carers and made 15 arrangements in the first year
- Built networks with disability employment advisors, NHS staff, local authority teams, community groups and disseminated over 6,000 leaflets, made a scheme video, as well as created a strong social media presence.
- She’s gained the support of local MP’s and the Mayor, forged links with local colleges to provide social work placements
- Provided flexible working so staff can work from home or volunteer in the community.
- And completed her own NVQ 5 in Health & Social Care at the same time!
Her achievements are enormous for promoting the value of Shared Lives across the region.
Congratulations Kate, and Dean, and all your team – you’re fantastic champions for Shared Lives.
Kate was thrilled with the award: ‘Many people know, the development of a new Shared Lives scheme is not an easy feat, with many, many late nights put in by myself and the whole team over the last two years.
But without the support of the Area Co-ordinators, Administration, Central staff, and our super, super Carers, who do the brilliant work they do every day in supporting people to achieve their potential, it would not have been possible. So thank you very much, and I shall treasure my award with pride.”
