Kirklees Together

Shared Lives carer Anura Sarathchandra has been named ‘Friend of the Year’ at this year’s Examiner Community Awards for his work as part of the Kirklees Shared Lives scheme, which helps adults and young people live more independently.

Anura Sarathchandra of Taylor Hill has been a Shared Lives carer for over 2 years and has opened his home to people need additional support, particularly to people in need of emergency support.

Mr Sarathchandra said:

“I have work with people with disabilities and mental ill-health for much of my career and when I heard about the Shared Lives scheme, I knew I could use my skills to help others. To date, I have helped six service users, all very different, unique individuals who need a bit of extra support. I currently have a person staying with me at the moment and we have just completed his application to university. I have learnt so much from each person welcomed into my home. It is challenging but so rewarding at the same time.”

Scheme manager David Maxted said:

“Anura has cared for many people, giving them the opportunities in life that would may not have been available to them otherwise. He, along with all of our Shared Lives carers, encourage service users to achieve their goals and offer support and guidance and independence.”

Kirklees Shared Lives scheme supports adults with mental ill health, learning and physical disabilities, older people and people with dementia.  The scheme matches people to others who can benefit from their support, whether that is living with them, staying for respite care or for day support.

If you are interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer with the scheme contact the team on 01484 221000 or email shared.lives@kirklees.gov.uk.