Bedford carers celebrate vital work with virtual afternoon tea

A charity is organising a virtual party as a thank you to carers who open up their homes to support young people and adults who have support needs.

The Shared Lives Bedford team is hosting the virtual afternoon tea on Thursday (June 17), between 2-3pm.

The event is for shared lives carers and service users to get together and for anyone wanting to find out more about the service.

Cllr Wendy Rider, portfolio holder for adult services, said: “We believe everyone has the right to live a full life, in a safe and friendly family home, regardless of the support they need.

“As we celebrate Shared Lives week we want to thank our dedicated carers for the fantastic work they do in Bedford borough, helping to create a kinder, stronger society.

"Over the past year, Covid-19 has presented challenges for many of our households, which only further emphasises the amazing job they do in helping to improve the lives of so many people."

To join Bedford virtual afternoon tea, visit here - meeting ID: 987 061 2866, using passcode: SLWAT

To become a Shared Lives carer, you must be over 18 years of age but don’t need specific qualifications, just the right values, commitment and of course, a spare bedroom.

People who visit or live with Shared Lives carers range from young people aged from 16 years and adults with learning disabilities. The support could be for short breaks, opportunities to join in activities or long-term placements

Becoming a Shared Live carer also comes with a good salary, including up to £10,000 tax free, plus up to £6,000 tax free for each person supported (with a max of three people). Carers are self-employed, so there are no zero hours contracts, which enables them to do the role as part of their family and life commitments.

Contact [email protected] or visit here