Claire, Bon, Aaron, Anthony and Geoff

Shared Lives - Cardiff

When Anthony was given the choice between living alone or with a family, he knew exactly what he wanted. He chose to move in with Claire and Bon, who provide Shared Lives support from their home in Cardiff. That decision led to something far more than just a placement it created a stable, welcoming home where Anthony now lives alongside Aaron and Geoff, two other adults with additional needs.

Together, the three men are supported by Claire and Bon in a way that balances independence with structure, support with warmth. It’s a busy household, but it works and each of the men brings something unique to it.

Anthony, who’s chatty and energetic, works three days a week in a local charity shop. He loves the physical side of work and the sense of purpose it gives him. He used to work five days, but it became tiring, particularly after catching Covid during the pandemic. Now, three days is the sweet spot: enough to keep him active, engaged, and proud of what he does, but with time to rest and enjoy life at home too.

There’s an easy rhythm to his days a commute, a packed lunch, and then stories shared over dinner about what happened at work. He’s generous too; he comes home every day with treats for the dogs, a small act that’s become part of his routine.

A man smiling at the camera with a birthday cake in front of him

Anthony out for his birthday

A man stood in a living room proudly holding a Henry Hoover

Geoff and his Henry Hoover

Geoff moved in back in January 2019, when his father was suddenly admitted to hospital and could no longer care for him. At the time, it was meant to be a short-term emergency placement. But Geoff quickly settled, and it soon became clear to Claire, Bon, Social Services, and Geoff himself that this was where he was meant to stay.

Geoff and Anthony became close friends almost immediately. When it looked like Geoff might be moved on to live independently, it was Anthony who was most distressed. The emotional impact of that bond made people take notice. And after a reassessment, Social Services agreed: Geoff would stay where he was.

Before he arrived at Claire and Bon’s, Geoff had lived with his parents for years, and he’d taken on a quiet but steady role supporting them. When his parents passed away, there was little preparation for what came next. Geoff needed support with day-to-day tasks, and physical tremors made some activities difficult, but he also needed connection and consistency. That’s exactly what he found.

Geoff is kind, conscientious, and always looking for ways to help around the house. He’s known for his love of vacuum cleaners, especially his two Henrys, one of which is still proudly displayed in his room. He vacuums his own room, the landing, and even Anthony’s room. His offer is always the same: “Is there anything I can do to help?”

Aaron is the newest addition to the household and brings a different kind of creativity to the space. A natural storyteller, he shares memories of his acting days with pride with parts in Grease, Oliver Twist, Sound of Music, High School Musical and more. He studied drama for years and even had a Broadway actor come in to coach one of his productions. He still draws regularly, keeping sketchbooks full of characters and ideas.

Aaron also helps care for the dogs something that connects all three men. Whether it’s beef jerky treats, walking the sausage dogs, or just sharing space on the sofa, the dogs have become a big part of their shared life. They bring routine and comfort and they light up whenever Anthony comes home from work.

For Claire and Bon, it’s the way the three men look out for one another that’s most rewarding. Everyone contributes something.

Two women, two men and one large dog sat on a sofa together smiling

Claire, Bon, Anthony, Geoff and the dog at home together

“It’s not just us caring for them, it's really is a team effort.”

Claire (Shared Lives carer)

The house is full of humour and affection. There’s music, favourite films, sketchbooks on the table, and plenty of laughter. Everyone has their own routine, their own space, and their own story, but what they share is just as important. It’s a home.

Claire’s advice to anyone considering becoming a Shared Lives carer is simple: “If you’ve got a spare room and a caring nature, go for it. It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do.”

Shared Lives has given Aaron, Anthony and Geoff not just a place to live, but a place to belong, somewhere they are supported, safe, and surrounded by people who care.