In Liverpool, Mark Gould, aged 62, lives with a young couple, Beth, 28, and Craig Macauley, 32, in a three-bedroom home. Mark and the Macauleys were strangers before Mark moved in with them in 2021 as part of an initiative called Shared Lives. This initiative places individuals with additional needs with families who are willing to provide them with a loving home. Despite initially being unsure about the arrangement, the couple and Mark have formed a strong bond, sharing laughter and creating joyful memories together.
Shared Lives is a care and support service for adults who wish to live independently in their community. Established in 1978, the initiative connects carers with individuals needing support, focusing on learning difficulties, mental health issues, or short-term care after hospital stays. Carers undergo a rigorous recruitment process and can earn tax-free income for providing care to individuals. Mark, who had previously been living in institutions due to his undiagnosed learning difficulties and lack of family, has flourished in this loving environment, becoming an integral part of the Macauley household.
Craig was inspired by his mother, who was a Shared Lives carer, to open his home to Mark. He values the rewarding experience of caring for others and wanted to create a warm, inclusive space for Mark to thrive. The couple, Mark, and their baby son enjoy various activities together, such as going on holidays, visiting the theatre, and sharing meals. Mark has also learned essential life skills, like managing money and shopping independently, under the Macauleys’ guidance. The couple values the diversity and intergenerational aspect Mark brings to their home, enriching their lives.
Living with the Macauleys has significantly improved Mark’s quality of life. He is grateful for the opportunity to be part of a loving family, creating fond memories and experiencing newfound independence. Mark enjoys being around their baby son and delights in participating in everyday activities like going out alone and watching sports with Craig. Beth appreciates the positive impact Mark has had on their family dynamic, emphasizing the importance of kindness and understanding in their household. Mark’s presence has enhanced their lives and enriched their family unit.
Shared Lives Plus CEO Ewan King advocates for this type of care service, highlighting the life-changing experience it offers individuals and families. Shared Lives enables individuals to live or visit in a loving home environment tailored to their interests, support needs, and lifestyle. Anyone looking for a flexible and rewarding role, such as a career change or a part-time position, can explore becoming a Shared Lives carer. This initiative fosters relationships, creates unique bonds, and promotes inclusivity and care for individuals in need of support.
Mark, Beth, and Craig’s story exemplifies the transformative power of Shared Lives and the profound impact it has had on their lives. Through shared laughter, meaningful connections, and mutual support, they have formed a close-knit family unit based on care, respect, and understanding. The initiative has provided Mark with a sense of belonging, independence, and joy, while the Macauleys have found fulfillment in offering him a loving home. Overall, Shared Lives serves as a testament to the importance of compassion, empathy, and inclusivity in caregiving and fostering meaningful relationships.
