A NORTHWICH carer and the young man she supports are the stars of Cheshire West and Chester Council's Christmas e-card.

Part of the council's Shared Lives scheme, carer Vanda Tench and Aaron Kettle, 28, take centre stage in animated and human form during the minute-long clip.

Vanda, along with husband Jo, have helped care for Aaron for over 10 years, having previously fostered him from the age of eight.

The e-card emphasises the importance of sharing memories and experiences with others, and encourages people to consider becoming Shared Lives carers

Vanda said: “Both me and Aaron wanted to get involved in the Christmas message for Shared Lives as we wanted to help raise awareness of the incredible service on offer in the borough.

"It’s so rewarding seeing Aaron grow and develop. I would recommend anyone to give it a go.”

Aaron and Vanda in animated form during the CWAC video e-card.

The Christmas message has been developed in partnership with Vivo Care Choices who deliver the Shared Lives service. Vivo is owned by the council and delivers a range of support for people with learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions and for older people, including people with dementia.

CWAC leader Cllr Samantha Dixon said: “The council has a strong partnership with Vivo Care Choices and we thought it would be lovely to feature the fantastic work of our Shared Lives carers in this year’s Christmas card.

“Carers play a vital role in society and it’s important to raise the profile of the service offered by Vivo Care Choices which helps change many lives for the better.”

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Shared Lives carers are needed across the borough to provide care and support to vulnerable adults, aged over 18, who have a physical, learning or mental health disability, along with older people.

All types of people can become Shared Lives carers, from retired individuals looking to do something that they really enjoy, to full-time/part-time workers who can visit individuals during the day, evening or at weekends to help put a smile on their face.

No formal qualifications are needed, with training and ongoing support provided.

Cllr Paul Dolan, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “The Shared Lives service is invaluable in the borough and the carers are amazing people. They are so compassionate in what they do and they love providing support to people and making them happy.

“As a council, we want to protect vulnerable people and promote and encourage independence for our residents. This is why Shared Lives carers are vitally important within our communities.”

vivocarechoices.co.uk/sharedlives