Annie, Mikey & Louise

Annie's Journey from foster carer to Shared Lives with Ategi

Annie has spent decades opening her home and heart to young people with additional needs. Her journey began as a foster carer, but transitioned into a Shared Lives arrangement, with the ongoing support of Ategi. This case study delves into her experiences, highlighting how Shared Lives has become part of Annie’s family, and how Ategi's support has made all the difference.

Transition from Foster Care to Shared Lives

Annie's journey into Shared Lives started through fostering. She transitioned naturally into Shared Lives, a service provided by Ategi, when two of the young people in her care, Mikey and Louise, aged out of traditional foster care. Both have learning difficulties, and Annie felt the next step—moving into Shared Lives—was seamless.

“There wasn’t a lot of difference, really. Instead of having a social worker coming round, I have Monica [from Ategi] come round. It’s just like any ordinary home,” Annie shared. In fact, she still refers to the young people she supports as "the kids" even though they are now in their 20s and 30s.

Louise came into Annie’s life when she was only 3 years old, and Mikey at the age of 4. Now at 20 and 32 respectively, Annie continues to provide them with the care and structure they need, just as she did when they were younger. Both have become integral parts of her household, where daily routines and interactions resemble any other family. “We have holidays together, and they see us as their mum and dad,” Annie explained.

Shared Lives - a family environment

One of the most unique aspects of Annie’s story is that she has not only supported Mikey and Louise, but also Louise’s mother and Mikey’s siblings in the past. Louise’s mother was once in Annie’s care as a foster child, and Mikey’s siblings were with her for a year before he joined. “It’s nice when you have the same family, you know their history, their family... It really is like a huge extended family network,” Annie said.

Annie’s experience with both fostering and Shared Lives has allowed her to build these strong, intergenerational connections. Louise’s mother still calls Annie “mum,” which speaks volumes about the depth of these relationships. This is a testament to how Shared Lives can integrate into the carers' own family lives, creating lasting bonds.

The role of Ategi's support

Ategi has been instrumental in ensuring that Annie has the support she needs to continue this incredible work. Monica, her Shared Lives coordinator, plays a significant role in this, providing regular visits and guidance when necessary. “Monica is a lovely person who understands life. She’s always there on the end of the phone if I need advice,” Annie emphasised.

Ategi also provides training courses and emotional support, although Annie rarely feels the need to reach out for help. “The courses are very good, and Monica’s got a wise old head on her. But it’s really just the reassurance that they are always there if needed,” she added.

Creating a sense of independence

One of the most fulfilling parts of Annie’s role as a Shared Lives carer is seeing the people she supports grow into more independent individuals. Despite their learning difficulties, both Mikey and Louise have developed essential life skills under Annie’s guidance. “It’s good to know that I’ve brought them up to be sensible little people. Mikey even makes me breakfast sometimes, and Louise is the tea maker in the house!” Annie said proudly.

The sense of independence they’ve gained is a direct result of the consistent care and family environment that Annie has provided. “I feel proud that we can go out shopping and not worry. They’re settled and safe, and that’s all I’ve ever wanted for them,” Annie reflected.

Looking ahead: A lifelong commitment

Annie’s dedication to the young people in her care extends beyond her own ability to provide for them. Her daughter, Linda, has also become an approved Shared Lives carer, ensuring continuity of care should Annie ever become unable to fulfill the role. “Linda will step in and take over, so their future is as secure as we can make it,” Annie said, underscoring her deep commitment to these young people.

Annie’s story highlights the transformative potential of Shared Lives, where carers like her can provide long-term, familial support to individuals with additional needs. The transition from foster care to Shared Lives was natural for Annie, and with the help of Ategi, she has been able to maintain a loving, structured environment for Mikey and Louise.

For Annie, the most rewarding part of her role is giving them a family—a stable home where they can thrive. As she says, “The most fulfilling part is giving them a family, being a family. That’s what it’s all about.”

In her own words, Annie’s journey through Shared Lives has “kept me young” and continues to bring joy and purpose to her life. With the support of Ategi, Annie’s home is not just a place of care, but a place of love, laughter, and belonging.