One year ago, Jan Shaw took a leap of faith and became a Shared Lives Carer with Shared Lives South West. After many years of fostering and working in housing, homelessness services and supported housing, Jan found herself at a crossroads and looking for a new direction.

“I kept seeing Shared Lives South West adverts on Facebook,” she said. “Eventually I made an enquiry. I wasn’t even sure I’d be suitable, but the more I learnt about Shared Lives, the more I realised it was a really good fit.”

Twelve months on, Jan’s home in Chudleigh is a busy and welcoming place where she shares her life with Jordan, Lucy, two French Bulldogs called Basil and Margot, and two chickens who greet you in the front garden.

Together, they have created a home full of laughter, friendship and opportunities to grow.

Building Confidence and Independence

Jordan was the first person to move in with Jan, relocating from Cornwall to Devon. Having previously lived in another Shared Lives household, he was ready for a fresh start.

“I wanted to come here to see if I could navigate my own world and my own life,” he said.

Jordan quickly settled into life with Jan and enjoys spending time with Basil, who soon became one of his favourite companions. Since then, he has grown in confidence and developed new skills that are helping him become more independent.

A particularly significant change has been learning to travel by bus. Previously, Jordan relied on taxis to get to Dawlish Gardens Trust, using much of his benefits to cover the cost. With Jan’s support and encouragement, and inspired by Lucy’s confidence using public transport, Jordan now travels by bus to his day service.

“He’s financially so much better off and it’s given him so much more confidence,” Jan explained.

Jordan agrees.

“Who would have thought a year ago I’d be catching buses and getting things from the supermarket for myself?” he said proudly.

The savings are helping Jordan work towards another goal: a holiday of his own. Travelling has always been something he has wanted to do and he is currently saving towards a future trip, with Edinburgh high on the list of destinations he’d love to visit.

“Jordan has never been on a plane and he’d love to go to Edinburgh, but if that doesn’t work out we are also thinking about other plans,” said Jan reassuringly.

Spreading Her Wings

Lucy joined the household after hearing about Shared Lives South West through Jordan. Having met while attending Dawlish Gardens Trust, they were already friends, making the transition easier for everyone.

Lucy was keen to gain more independence while still maintaining strong relationships with her family.

“It’s been an adjustment, but I’m settling,” she said just a month after moving in.

“Jan is kind and helpful.”

Lucy continues to enjoy an active social life, meeting friends to enjoy her remote-controlled car hobby and playing football regularly for Exeter Ability FC. Looking ahead, she hopes to find employment, possibly working as a dog walker.

At home, Lucy is making the most of having her own space and is excited about plans to redecorate her bedroom later this year, choosing the colours herself. Jan has also been supporting her to develop practical skills, including making homemade jam as Christmas gifts for family members.

Learning Together

Jordan and Lucy both attend Dawlish Gardens Trust and regularly access day opportunities at Farm Effect at Rattycombe Farm. At home, Jan encourages them to play an active role in everyday life, helping with household chores, budgeting and planning their spending.

“A big part of what we do is learning about the value of things, saving money and sticking to a budget,” said Jan.

The pair have also embraced new experiences together. Jan’s passion for horses led to both Jordan and Lucy volunteering at the Pony Club Championships at Bicton Arena.

Lucy took responsibility for the red safety flag, learning the correct procedures and helping riders check numbers, while Jordan managed timings with a stopwatch and whistle and communicated with neighbouring fences.

“It was brilliant,” said Jan.

The household has also shared plenty of memorable moments closer to home, from watching the eclipse together to enjoying film nights and everyday moments that strengthen their bond.

For Jordan, having someone he trusts has made a huge difference.

“Jan helps with just about everything really,” he said. “I feel I can go to her if I have a problem and she’ll do her best to sort it out. She helps with paperwork, medical appointments and things like that.”

Having Lucy move in has added another positive dimension to the household.

“It’s good we all get on well,” said Jordan.

“The advantage was that they already knew each other,” added Jan. “That made things much easier and they’ve supported each other in different ways.”

Jordan has even begun helping Jan with interviews for prospective Shared Lives Carers, a role offered by Shared Lives South West to ensure new carers feel welcomed and can answer questions about the role and services.

“We’ve done three so far,” said Jan. “It’s really helped Jordan’s confidence meeting new people.”

A Rewarding Journey

Jan describes the support she receives from Shared Lives South West as a key factor in her success. She credits both her Shared Lives Coordinator, Claire Young, who supported her through the approval process, and current coordinator Fiona Glanvill, who continues to support her now.

“Fiona and I just clicked straight away,” Jan said. “I know I can ask her a random question or talk something through and she’ll respond quickly.”

Reflecting on her first year, Jan says one of her biggest lessons has been learning to ask for support when she needs it.

“I’ve realised I’m not a burden and that it’s okay to ask for help. I can cope, and I’m doing well.”

For anyone considering becoming a Shared Lives Carer, her advice is simple:

“I’m a single carer and I wouldn’t want that to put anyone off. Don’t let it feel daunting. It is such a rewarding career.”

After just one year, Jan has helped Jordan and Lucy develop confidence, independence and aspirations for the future. In return, they have created a home filled with friendship, shared experiences and plenty of laughter.

Find out more about being a Shared Lives Carer here.