Meet Beth, Terri and Gail - a heart-warming story of support, growth and transformation through Surrey Choices’ Shared Lives scheme.
When Beth and her family were exploring options for supported living, Shared Lives stood out as the best fit. Beth lives with a health condition that causes her to faint unexpectedly – at times putting her in dangerous situations.
Beth explained that it wasn’t safe for her to be left at home alone, sharing: “I’d fainted a few times headfirst down the stairs, and we had to call an ambulance. Luckily, I was okay but I was spending a lot of time in my room by myself when my mum was at work.”
The isolation meant Beth didn’t feel she was living the kind of life a 25-year-old should be. After exploring several options – including supported living – the family chose Shared Lives as the right path forward.
Shared Lives offers a unique approach – matching people who need support with approved carers who share their home and lives. Beth was matched with Terri, and it’s a connection that has made a world of difference.
Terri has been a Shared Lives carer for around eight years, three of those with Surrey Choices. Reflecting on the role, she said: “I recommend it to everybody all the time - it honestly is amazing.”
Although Terri grew up in a family with lived experience of disability, she said: “I don’t think that’s what made me do this job – I just think it’s so nice to give something back.”
From the start, Terri provided a safe and welcoming environment for Beth. Over time, Beth’s confidence blossomed, and she’s grown in ways she never imagined.
“Being in Shared Lives has really improved my confidence,” Beth said. “I’ve always had really high anxiety, but Terri really helped me work through that. We do a lot of talking, and I’ve started to do tasks I never did before. I’m progressing in my independence.”
Terri added that Beth doesn’t always give herself enough credit: “She’s her own biggest critic. She’s so hard on herself all the time, but she’s amazing. I couldn’t be prouder of her, and I know her mum feels the same.”
She continued: “She needs to give herself a big pat on the back – without her pure determination, she wouldn’t be where she is now. She’s coming on leaps and bounds and becoming more and more independent. She’s doing more and more for herself – just like any other 25-year-old.”
Beth agrees that her life has changed dramatically since joining Shared Lives: “Being able to live as part of a family has completely transformed my life.”
She admitted that when she first heard about the scheme, she wasn’t sure: “To be honest, I was very sceptical. But it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.”
The bond between Beth and Terri is full of warmth, encouragement and mutual respect. Terri described Beth as “a lovely young girl with impeccable manners” and acknowledged that her progress is down to sheer determination, resilience and the right support.
“It’s been a long, long road,” she said — but one that has led to independence, confidence and the life Beth deserves.
