Carol and Kelly's Shared Life story

How Shared Lives helped Carol, Bob, and Kelly stay Together

From the moment the door was opened, it was clear that Carol and Kelly’s home was filled with love, pride and a deep sense of belonging.

Family photos lined the walls, and Kelly beamed as she pointed out the furniture her dad, Bob, had made. She calls Carol and Bob “mum and dad” and has done so since she was aged 5. Now aged 36, Kelly has lived with Carol and Bob for over 3 decades.

When she turned 16 years and could no longer be fostered, Shared Lives made it possible for her to stay in the home where she felt safe, supported and loved. Carol explained:

“I was already fostering, and Kelly was living with us, so it was a natural progression,”

But the transition was not without its challenges. When funding for Kelly’s foster placement was due to end, Carol and Bob were told she might have to move into a hostel. Determined to keep their family together, they sought legal advice and advocated for Kelly to remain at home. Carol said:

“It was really memorable when they made her placement permanent, that was the day we joined Shared Lives.”

Kelly remembers that time clearly:

“When I was 16, I was told by Social Services that my foster care funding would be stopped. I was very concerned and told my mum. She spoke to the manager and said we had heard of Shared Lives and wanted to be transferred. After a battle using a solicitor, we were able to get the funding. But mum and dad said I was going nowhere, funding or not.”

For Kelly, Shared Lives has meant more than just staying in the home she loves. It has given her the confidence to thrive. She said:

“I do feel safe and secure being under the Shared Lives scheme, because if I lived on my own, I would feel vulnerable, I know that I would not be leaving my home unless I wanted to be living independently.”

Carol added: “You know that you can stay with us until you are ready to live independently.”

Kelly is now a vibrant and active member of her community. She organises social activities for a group of around ten other citizens supported by Shared Lives. She said:

“We have a great time, yesterday we went to the cinema.” Carol smiled and said:

“This just shows how much confidence she has now.”

Kelly is passionate about inclusion and regularly searches online for new groups and activities for people with additional needs. If she sees someone on their own, she encourages them to join in. Carol said:

“Anybody who meets Kelly, their feedback is always that she’s the kindest, most generous and warm-hearted person you’ll ever meet.”

Their bond is unshakeable. Kelly said:

“I’ve known my family since I was 5 and I am a part of their family.”

In 31 years, they have only had one disagreement. Even Carol’s daughter and granddaughter, who are also carers, talk about who Kelly would live with if she ever needed to move.

This year, Carol and Kelly are looking forward to a “lovely adventure” in India with family and friends. They have already enjoyed a trip to Turkey in June and have short city breaks planned for September.

Reflecting on her journey, Kelly said:

“Before I came into foster care, I was living in poverty, and it wasn’t a safe environment. When I went into foster care, I was given lots of support by carers and I felt safe and secure. I was also given the love and support of my carers, and when I wanted to transition to Shared Lives, I had their full support to stay in my home long term.”

Carol’s dedication is clear in everything she does. A former social work assistant, she has always put the needs of those she supports first.

Carol and Kelly’s story is a powerful example of how Shared Lives can preserve lifelong relationships and provide the stability and love that every person deserves. It is not just about care. It is about family.

Page last updated: 10 December 2025