Karen and George's story
Karen Scotford says, "I have been a Shared Lives carer for 32 years I was only going to do it for 2 years but I got attached to the people I supported so I'm still here. I remember all the people I have supported. Some moved due to changing needs, others have gone on to independent living.
"I like to think I have made a difference to the people I have supported but never was I prepared for someone who would benefit so much until I met George. George came to us quiet, shy, humble and polite. He had never been on holiday, never been on a plane or to the beach and was very fussy about what he would eat. Our household like going to music weekends and away on holiday. Initially George said he wouldn't go, didn't like the idea of planes and dancing. We respected that. Then he decided to try a music weekend, a song came on he liked, he swung his jacket over his shoulder and started to dance. He danced the night away! He now has more dressing up clothes than I have.
"He started to think about holidays so we got him a passport. He decided to try and after the first nerves on the flight was relaxed, happy and had a great holiday.
George in Turkey - second foreign trip - in black T shirt sitting, Karen in blue standing.
"I have had the privilege of watching this lovely, shy, insecure man develop into a confident, happy member of my family. He has a wicked sense of humour, gets on well with everyone and enjoys a family home life with the support he needs. He just soaks up all that life can offer him and enjoys every new experience. The others who live here, one has been with us 19 years, the other 8. We have a good team ethic and I value them as much as they value me."
George says,
"My life before was a nightmare. I came out the other side of the tunnel where there is light. Everyone of Karen's family have treated me as if I am a king. Karen is the governor of all carers. Doesn't matter how much work there is she likes putting a smile on people's faces. All carers doing this should get a standing ovation."