Moray Shared Lives carers celebrate Shared Lives Week.
As part of Shared Lives Week 2025 (23–29 June), Health & Social Care Moray (HSCM) is celebrating the incredible work of its Shared Lives carers, who support adults with care needs to live fuller, more connected lives.
The Moray Shared Lives service, established in 2012, now includes around 30 self-employed Shared Lives carers, who support approximately 90 people through day support, short breaks, and longer-term care arrangements.
Shared Lives is a unique and flexible form of social care where carers open their homes and lives to adults who may be living with a learning disability, an age-related condition, or a long-term health issue. The support enables people to develop skills, rediscover interests, build confidence and friendships, and feel part of their community again.
For families, Shared Lives provides much-needed breaks and reassurance. Knowing that their loved one is supported by someone dependable and understanding helps ease caring responsibilities and strengthens the wider support network.
This week, Shared Lives carers from across Moray Shared Lives came together for an event where their dedication was recognised by HSCM, with the presentation of certificates of appreciation.
10-year certificates were presented to: Shirley Caminiti, Trevor Geddes, Carol Isherwood, Jude Linsell, Karys Paterson, and Liz Rennie.
Five-year service awards went to: Anne Begg, Louise Boaler, Shirley Clarke, Michael Clarke, Chris Clutterbuck, Malcolm Geddes, James Kail, Sarah Kelley, Gail Maclean, Linda Millar, George Millar, Charlie Murray, Sue Rees, Libby Robinson, and Elaine Stockdale.
Judith Proctor, Chief Officer of HSCM, said: “I’d like to thank all our Shared Lives carers – old and new – for their continued commitment to this fantastic service. Every day, they create safe, meaningful, and supportive relationships that make an incredible difference to people’s lives.
“We’re always looking for more people to join us, as there are many more folk in our communities who would really benefit from Shared Lives. If you’re able to consider opening your home and your life to someone who needs support, please reach out to our Shared Lives team to find out more about this very rewarding opportunity.”
Shared Lives carers are self-employed and use their home as their work base. They can choose how often and in what way they want to offer support – from a few hours a week to full-time arrangements. Carers receive regular payments and may be eligible for generous tax relief through HM Revenue & Custom (HMRC).
Every arrangement is carefully managed by the Moray Shared Lives team, who match and introduce people based on similar personalities and interests to ensure a good fit, and provide ongoing support.
If this flexible and rewarding role sounds like something you or someone you know might be interested in, the Shared Lives team would love to tell you more and answer any questions.
Get in touch by calling 01343 563450 or email sharedlives@moray.gov.uk. Visit the Shared Lives pages on the Moray Council website to find out more.
