A Celebration of Belonging, Inclusion and Community
by Reena Kaypee.
Shared Lives Week 2026, held from 15th to 19th June, was a vibrant and heart‑warming celebration of everything that makes Camphill Village Trust Shared Lives so special. The week brought together carers, people who use the service, families, staff and new applicants to honour the values at the heart of Shared Lives: belonging, kindness, inclusion and the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
Across the week, people connected, tried new experiences, shared laughter and created memories that truly reflected the spirit of Shared Lives.
A Joyful Start at Fun City, Dudley
The celebrations began with an energetic and unforgettable day at Fun City in Dudley. From the moment everyone arrived, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. The venue offered something for everyone, and people threw themselves into the activities with enthusiasm and confidence.
Virtual reality experiences were a huge hit, giving people the chance to immerse themselves in new worlds and try something completely different. Indoor cricket, baseball and basketball batting cages, interactive darts, laser tag, karaoke and laser quest brought out teamwork, friendly competition and plenty of laughter.
The pool competition quickly became one of the highlights of the day, with cheering, encouragement and shared celebration filling the room as people supported one another and enjoyed the thrill of taking part.
Lunch provided a welcome break between activities, offering time to sit together, chat and enjoy good food. The sense of community was clear as people shared stories, made new friends and relaxed in each other’s company. The day perfectly captured what Shared Lives is all about, fun, inclusion, confidence building and shared experiences in a warm and supportive environment.
Coffee, Conversation and Community
Mid‑week, the tone shifted to something calmer but equally meaningful. The Shared Lives coffee morning at Soffio Lounge in Stourbridge offered a relaxed space for connection, reflection and conversation.
It was particularly valuable for new carer applicants, who had the opportunity to meet experienced carers and hear first‑hand what the role is really like. These conversations helped build confidence and understanding, offering reassurance and insight into the rewarding nature of Shared Lives.
The morning highlighted the strength of the Shared Lives community — a network built on support, openness and shared values.
A Peaceful Picnic at Ashfield Gardens
Later in the week, many people attended a beautiful Bring Your Own Picnic at Ashfield Gardens, which proved to be one of the most memorable moments of Shared Lives Week. The gardens were in full bloom, offering a peaceful and uplifting environment that encouraged relaxation and connection.
One Shared Lives carer brought some delicious cherries, which tasted amazing and added to the enjoyment of the beautiful surroundings. People enjoyed homemade food, sunshine and gentle conversation. The natural setting, birdsong, rustling leaves and colourful flowers created a sense of tranquillity that helped everyone unwind.
People enjoyed feeding the friendly animals, exploring the garden paths and taking part in nature‑based activities. One person who uses the service spent the afternoon capturing stunning photographs of the gardens, showcasing their creativity and passion for nature. Their confidence grew with every picture, demonstrating the importance of supporting people to explore their interests and express themselves.
Everyone enjoyed spending time with Nutmeg, the much‑loved Ashfield Gardens resident, a highlight for many.
The picnic was more than just a meal, it was a celebration of togetherness, nature and the simple joy of being outdoors in good company.
Wellbeing and Welcoming New Carers
Throughout the week, there was a strong focus on wellbeing. A helpful webinar, Calming the Anxious Mind – Health and Wellbeing, was shared via WhatsApp, giving carers and people we support flexible access to practical tools for managing stress and promoting emotional resilience.
It was also wonderful to welcome new carers into the Shared Lives community during the week. They were able to experience first‑hand the warmth, values and sense of belonging that define Camphill Village Trust Shared Lives. Many expressed how inspired they felt after meeting carers, joining activities and seeing the positive impact Shared Lives has on people’s lives.
A Week to Remember
Shared Lives Week 2026 was a powerful reminder of the strength, compassion and community that sit at the heart of Shared Lives. From energetic activities to peaceful moments in nature, from laughter to meaningful conversations, the week showcased the very best of what Shared Lives represents.
It celebrated the dedication of carers, the individuality and achievements of the people they support, and the shared belief that everyone deserves a life filled with connection, opportunity and belonging.
A truly wonderful week and a beautiful reflection of the Shared Lives service.
