One of the wonderful things about Shared Lives is that it creates opportunities for people to experience life as part of an extended family and community.
Recently, Jim and I enjoyed a two-week cruise aboard the P&O Ventura with the three people we support, alongside members of our wider family and close friends.
From sailing out of Southampton to exploring Spain, Madeira and Portugal, the trip was packed with memorable moments. We visited a wildlife park in Spain, taking cable car rides above enclosures to spot elephants, bears, monkeys and hippos along the way
One particularly special moment came when the ship’s captain anchored in open waters to give passengers a clear view of the total solar eclipse. Watching the eclipse from our cabin balcony was an incredible experience and one we’ll never forget.
In Madeira, we celebrated John’s birthday in style. He chose a tuk-tuk tour as his birthday activity, and his cabin door was soon covered with birthday messages from fellow passengers. The celebrations continued at dinner when the dining room joined together to sing Happy Birthday as a birthday cake was brought out.
Another highlight was our overnight stay in Lisbon. Some of the group took a ride on the Hippotrip, an amphibious vehicle that tours the city streets before heading into the river. It certainly provided plenty of laughs.
Life on board was just as enjoyable. We attended theatre shows, danced to live music, took part in craft activities, relaxed by the pool and even joined a passenger choir. Lin and John taught fellow choir members some Makaton signs, and together everyone learned the signs for the chorus of the final performance, which was showcased in a concert at the end of the cruise.
The weather was kind to us throughout, and everyone returned home with wonderful memories and stories to share.
Shared Lives is about more than support. It’s about belonging, friendship, experiences and creating opportunities for people to live full and meaningful lives.
💚 If you’d like to find out more about becoming a Shared Lives Carer, come and meet us at one of our upcoming Wolverhampton events.
