Residents can help care for others by sharing home for short breaks or long stays

KINGSTEIGNTON charity is appealing to residents to open their homes and support individuals with care and support needs, helping them live full and independent lives.

- 

Shared Lives South West is launching its call to action as it marks Shared Lives Week, running nationally from June 23-27. The annual event celebrates the growing network of carers who make a real difference in their communities.

Shared Lives South West has been transforming lives for more than 20 years. The organisation already supports hundreds of carers across the region who welcome individuals with learning disabilities, autism, mental health conditions or age-related illnesses such as dementia into their homes.

In this paid role, Shared Lives carers offer either short breaks or the person can live with them full time, similar to adult fostering. The goal is to create a nurturing, family-style environment that supports independence and personal growth.

"Our mission is to match individuals with carers who can provide a home-based, person centred approach," said Rose Gapper, Shared Lives team leader.