THE work of a charity supporting adults to continue to lead independent lives has been celebrated by a Somerset MP.

Ashley Fox (Conservative, Bridgwater) visited carers from Shared Lives South West to learn more about the charity’s work.

During the visit, Sir Ashley met carers Jerry and Helen Brimson, who became Shared Lives Carers in 2023 and now provide long-term support to Jodi and Jazmin in their home in Bridgwater, and also offer short-breaks.

The Shared Lives model, often compared to adult fostering, enables carers to offer either short breaks or longer-term support at their own households, aiming to offer people opportunities to live the fullest lives.

READ MORE: Bridgwater news from your Somerset Leveller

After his visit, MP Mr Fox said: “It was a real pleasure to meet carers Jerry and Helen, along with Jodi, who they support to live independently.

“Shared Lives South West is an alternative to residential care where they tailor support to the individual’s needs to allow them to live with as much independence as possible.

“The dedication that carers like Jerry and Helen give is inspiring, and I am very grateful to them for the difference they make.”

Shared Lives team leader, Amanda Maggs, was also part of the visit, providing background on the Ilminster-based organisation.

“We are grateful to Ashley for taking time out to find out more about the care model and the great work we do,” she said. “We hope he will support us further in the future.”

Shared Lives South West is celebrating its 21st anniversary this year and is currently rated Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission.

To find out more about Shared Lives South West and the work it does, visit sharedlivessw.org.uk.

READ MORE: Health & Wellbeing news from your Somerset Leveller