Amy is supporting this year's Shared Lives Week campaign because she wants more people to know about Shared Lives and the difference it has made to her family.

Caleb, Amy's nephew, came to live with her when he was four years old after his mum, Amy's sister, was no longer able to care for him.

For more than 13 years, Caleb had regular short breaks with foster carers Joe and Easther, spending up to 14 nights a month with them. Those short breaks became an important source of support for the whole family. 

Amy is also raising two young daughters and says having regular respite has made a huge difference.   "We love Caleb to bits, but it can be difficult to balance everyone's needs and find time to recharge."

As Caleb approached his 18th birthday, Amy was faced with the possibility of that support coming to an end.

"It was a stressful time because there was no other alternative. I was worried because Caleb sees Joe and Easther as family and he doesn't cope well with change."

Amy first heard about Shared Lives through her social worker in children's services. Through Shared Lives Glasgow, managed by Cornerstone, Joe and Easther were able to become Shared Lives carers and continue supporting Caleb after he turned 18.

Continuing what matters

For Amy, Shared Lives meant Caleb could continue spending time with people who had become an important part of his life. Caleb continues to spend time with Joe and Easther and their family, whether that's holidays, day trips or simply being part of everyday family life.

"Joe and Easther aren't just respite carers to us; they are family. They have been a massive support over the years and are always there to help, especially when it comes to Caleb. Everything they do for him is amazing. He has been on lots of caravan breaks, days out and trips with them. He's always having adventures when he's with them."For Joe and Easther, continuing to support Caleb was just as important. Having built a close relationship with him and Amy over many years, they were concerned about what would happen when his foster care short breaks ended.

Shared Lives gave them the opportunity to continue supporting Caleb while maintaining the routines, relationships and stability that were already working well for him. 

A lifeline

Amy says Shared Lives has given her family peace of mind during what could have been a difficult transition.

"I would recommend Shared Lives because it gave us a lifeline at a difficult time and allowed us to continue living as a family with support that suits us. Caleb is able to live in a home environment, as part of another family, and receive support that is tailored to his needs. It's like a home from home, with trained carers and the backing of an organisation for all of us."

Shared Lives can help young people maintain important relationships as they move into adulthood. To find out more about what Shared Lives can offer or if you are interested in becoming a carer please visit Shared Lives and Short Breaks or contact the team on 01294 311723 or via email [email protected]