Susanne and Leanne’s Story
Susanne, an individual with care needs wanted to move out of her parents' home, at the age of 26. Susanne realised she wanted more independence to go out into the community and explore.
The only option offered to Susanne at the time of her transition was a residential care home. Understandably, being in her twenties, Susanne didn't want to live with people who would be much older than her.
Susanne wanted the opportunity to live in a home style environment, like the home she had lived in, but not under the same parental guidance she previously had. She wanted the freedom to build relationships with people who were not currently in her network.
With Shared Lives, Leanne became Susanne’s Shared Lives Carer. Leanne prior to Shared Lives used to be a learning disability nurse. Leanne had already brought up a large family where she previously adopted two boys, in addition to her children, and had a chicken coop full of ex-battery cage hens!
However, Leanne’s home and heart was quite not full yet! Leanne was able to provide a comfortable place for Susanne to stay. She had enough room in her home to share and enjoy life with another person - Susanne was that person for Leanne.
As a result, these two ordinary people came together to share an extraordinary life. Susanne and Leanne were interviewed on behalf of Shared Lives Plus, to talk about their Shared Lives with Arabella Weir, from the Fast Show and Two Doors Down.
Susanne was quoted telling Arabella "I love it here, I fought to stay here, ever since I met her because she's lovely" when asked about her living arrangement and Leanne said she "would recommend anyone to become a Shared Lives Carer as it gives people a richer life.'
Leanne was able to learn and try new things with Susanne, whilst improving her communication skills, and appreciating a better way of life. Leanne made a real difference to someone else’s life.
One of the benefits of becoming a Shared Lives Carer is gaining the mutual and beneficial relationship by supporting an individual with care needs. By sharing and learning from each other, a Shared Lives Carer, can excel in all areas of life.
More stories from Shared Lives Plus
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Email: Shared.Lives@barnet.gov.uk
Telephone: 0208 359 3576