A CARING family and the adults they help care for through a special ‘Shared Lives’ programme have spoken about their experiences.

Carol and Pedro Durandt offer support to both Andrew and Michael, as Shared Lives carers.

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The scheme, run by Blackburn with Darwen Council, provides vulnerable adults the chance to live with families or individuals who offer support for them to live as independently as possible.

Andrew, who is 47, has lived with the Durandts for around five months whilst Michael has at least five hours of support during the week.

Andrew said that he really enjoys living with the Durandts as part of the family.

He works across at Witton Park as a volunteer, including at the new arena.

Michael, who currently lives in an Assisted Living flat in Darwen, enjoys volunteering in various roles including recruiting new carers for the scheme.

He said: “Shared Lives helps give a lot of help and support, with staff that can assist with any problems, and everyone aims to work together as a team.”

The programme offers Andrew, Michael and other adults in need of support a chance to enjoy a stable and fulfilling home and social life, making it easier to enjoy activities within their communities.

These include ‘Sliding Doors’, a social event held every Thursday 6.30pm until 8.30pm at Blues Bar, Ewood Park which brings carers and those they care for together to meet old friends, make some new ones and socialise.

Mr Durandt said: “A lot of the carers and people supported spend time with each other, providing vital support to each other and widening their friendships.

“Having ‘Shared Lives’ helps make this possible.”

Council adult care boss Mohammed Khan said: “It is fantastic that families carers such as the Durandts help adults such as Andrew and Michael through Shared Lives, and they are exactly the type of carers the scheme is looking to recruit.

“Becoming a Shared Lives carer and welcoming someone into your home can make a real difference to someone’s life. I would encourage anyone interested in the scheme to get in touch by calling 01254 585899.”