Earlier this year, our Shared Lives team hosted a fantastic Shared Lives Expert Event – and what a day it turned out to be!
This year, the focus was a little different. Instead of looking at what makes a good Shared Lives Carer, the event explored how Area Coordinators can make time spent with people who use services more meaningful. The day centred on improving communication, making documents more user-friendly, and enhancing the quality of visits – with the voices of experts by experience leading the way.
As Reena, one of our coordinators, said:
“It was an amazing, fun, full-packed, exciting and friendly week with so many events and activities going on. The day was the greatest number of people we had at an activity over the Shared Lives week.”
Setting the tone
The day began with welcome drinks, snacks, and introductions before moving into a lively icebreaker: “You are stranded on a desert island – what three things would you take and why?”
Reena reflected:
“Everyone got into small groups to discuss and feedback to me. This was super fun, so many great ideas and interactions of people I thought would never connect. We all had some giggles and some excellent explanations – well, this set the right tone and mood.”
It was the perfect way to break down barriers, encourage new conversations and set the stage for open sharing.
Learning from lived experience
We were delighted to welcome Katie, a Shared Lives Ambassador, who led an interactive session on communication and support. She asked groups to order different scenarios from “most important” to “least important,” before sharing her own perspective.
“Katie then went through her preferences from a lived experience and explained why. What an inspiration and a star!” – Reena
Sharing food, skills and laughter
After a busy morning, lunch provided the chance to network, enjoy delicious food – and even hear Richard share his drumming talents. Alongside pizzas and samosas, there was a raffle of beautiful handmade teddies crafted by Jayne Gordon, raising funds for Shared Lives social events.
Improving together
In the afternoon, participants worked in groups to review the documents used during support and monitoring visits. It was a valuable opportunity to share honest feedback and explore new ways to improve efficiency, communication and support.
“There were some great ideas which I have taken note of and will be looking to implement in due course. I was so impressed with the participation, ideas and passion to make things better – and who knows better than the experts themselves.” – Reena
The day finished with a raffle, lots of smiles, and a healthy number of volunteers keen to get involved in future interviews, assessments and events. Reena even floated the idea of a bowling night in September, which went down a treat!
Looking ahead
Reflecting on the event, Reena summed it up perfectly:
“Overall, it was a fun, innovative, interactive, social, formative and so many ideas/suggestions galore day. I can’t wait to see you all next year.”
What is Shared Lives?
Shared Lives is an alternative to traditional care. Instead of supporting someone in a service setting, a Shared Lives Carer opens up their own home and family life to an adult with learning disabilities or additional needs, offering support, friendship and a place to belong.
At Camphill Village Trust, we match people with carefully recruited and trained carers, creating safe, supportive and meaningful relationships that help people live more independently and enjoy life to the full.
Get involved
Become a Shared Lives Carer – We’re always looking for people with a caring nature and a spare room to join our scheme. Full training, ongoing support and allowances are provided.
Find support through Shared Lives – If you or someone you know could benefit from living in a Shared Lives arrangement, we’d love to talk.
👉 Find out more here and get in touch with our Shared Lives team today.
