Festive fun event for Sefton shared lives service

More than 100 people from across Sefton attended the Shared Lives Christmas party in Crosby this week.

Marine Football Club on College Road was the venue for the event which was organised by staff from the boroughwide service which is run by Sefton’s leading adult social care provider, New Directions.

A disco, a raffle, a buffet and games of Irish bingo and Play Your Cards Right were part of a packed programnme of activities at the get-together, which was also attended by a number of people who live in New Direction supported tenancies.

Shared Lives gives people the opportunity to benefit from a safe, friendly and supportive environment by living as part of a carer’s family, rather than in residential care or supported housing.

This can be a permanent arrangement, or organised on a respite basis, but in each case the emphasis is on helping individuals to form new relationships, broaden his or her experiences and become more independent.

According to Karen Bennett who manages the service, one of the most important features of Shared Lives is its flexibility in terms of providing support that meets each person’s individual needs and aspirations.

Carers can be families, couples or individuals of any age, and people who benefit from the service range from young adults up to clients in middle age and beyond.

Karen commented: “The Christmas party is a great way for people who live in Shared Lives settings across the borough, and their carers, to get together and celebrate this special time of year.

“It’s also a chance to look back at another year of success for the service in terms of providing homely environments and positive lifestyle opportunities for the people involved with it.”

Staff at Shared Lives are always keen to hear from potential new carers. For more information ring 01704 829514.