The couple, from Hereford, are retiring this month after more than three decades working with Herefordshire Council’s Shared Lives service - a Council Adult Social Care scheme where carers share their home and family life with adults who cannot live on their own.

Sue and Pete have supported many individuals through long-term, family‑style arrangements, giving people confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Two individuals they supported both lived with them for a remarkable 25+ years!

Herefordshire Council Cabinet Member for Adults, Health and Wellbeing, Cllr Carole Gandy, said: “Sue and Pete’s contribution to the lives of local people has been extraordinary. Their retirement marks the end of a truly inspiring chapter in Shared Lives caring, and their recognition by the King and Queen is incredibly well deserved. We hope their story encourages others to consider becoming Shared Lives carers and offering adults the chance to live happier, more independent lives.”

Shared Lives carers support adults across the county, including those with learning disabilities, care leavers, people with Mental health needs or dementia, as well as those needing short-term support, to give their family carers a break. The scheme is proven to improve people’s lives in an alternative, family-based setting to traditional care environments. 

Shared Lives carers help people to:

•           Build independence

•           Learn daily living skills

•           Stay connected to their community

•           Enjoy stable, long-term relationships

•           Live in a safe, supportive home environment

Sue and Pete, plus the Council’s Shared Lives co-ordinator Carol Condie, were all invited to the reception earlier this week. As well as meeting the King and Queen, they spoke with the Duchess of Edinburgh and national broadcaster Kate Garraway. The event brought together carers from across the UK and highlighted Shared Lives’ impact for thousands of people. 

Herefordshire Council’s Adult Social Care service is looking for more people to join the Shared Lives service and enjoy the rewards of making a difference to people’s lives. Carers are assessed over an extended period of typically three-to-six months. They can expect to receive around £600 per week for each adult supported (maximum of three people), along with ongoing support from their Shared Lives co-ordinator.

Find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer, online.