Oxfordshire Care Awards: Recognition for 30 years of supporting others through Shared Lives
For Sue Clayton, who lives on the outskirts of Wallingford, being a Shared Lives carer has been a huge part of her life.
After 30 years, with retirement on the horizon, Sue was honoured at last week’s Oxfordshire Care Awards, winning the trophy for long service.
Sue joined Shared Lives back in 1993 alongside her late husband Tim. The scheme is run by Oxfordshire County Council and matches caring households with adults who have additional care needs, offering them a place to stay and grow their independence.
In that time, Sue has supported more than 30 people, welcoming them into her home and offering them any additional support that they might need.
Sue was nominated for the long service award by Kerry Coleman. Kerry works in Oxfordshire County Council’s Shared Lives team to support people involved in the programme.
Kerry said: “Sue has a big heart and encourages everyone who she supports to be as independent as they can be, but she knows when to step in and help when they need it.”
“Sue has dedicated just over 30 years of her life to being a Shared Lives carer and I feel she deserves the award as she has done such a fantastic job with great humour and grace.”
Sue and her family have featured in a number of campaigns encouraging other people to become Shared Lives carers. Her son and daughter in law, Sam and Abbie Clayton, are also part of the programme.
The scheme is an important part of the council’s Oxfordshire Way vision to support people to live well and independently within their own communities for as long as possible.
Sue said: “It’s been an interesting 30 years! I would recommend this to other people, and I often do. It’s kept me young! I would urge even more people to come forward and get involved.”
As Sue now takes a step back from the Shared Lives scheme and enjoys her retirement, Oxfordshire County Council is looking for more people to join the programme.
Shared Lives carers come from all walks of life, from different backgrounds and live in all kinds of homes. You can earn up to £500 a week by supporting someone at home and fit it around your life and work commitments.
If you think you could support an adult with additional needs, you can find out more about the programme at oxfordshire.gov.uk/sharedlives or calling 01865 897971
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