Impact Award for Dumfries & Galloway!

Dumfries & Galloway Shared Lives win at Shared Lives Plus Awards 2025

We are delighted to announce that our Dumfries & Galloway Shared Lives Scheme has won the Impact Award at the 2025 Shared Lives Plus Shared Living Awards, recognised for its person-centred approach, transformative outcomes and strong community impact.

The scheme was recognised for the amazing support we deliver which enables people to enjoy holidays, social activities and meaningful day-to-day experiences, while building belonging and community.

Shared Lives Coordinator Helen Robertson received praise in the nomination for her exceptional leadership. Helen manages the service day-to-day, leading with dedication and compassion, ensuring that carers and supported people alike feel valued, celebrated, and supported to reach their full potential. Her selfless approach and commitment to nurturing relationships have been credited with shaping the service into the life-changing support it is today.

The award nomination also highlighted the achievements of individuals supported by the scheme:

• Paul has grown into a national and international sports competitor, mentor and ambassador for the service. He is now pursuing coaching qualifications to share his expertise with others, inspiring peers through his lived experience.

• Jordan, who faced a traumatic and unstable childhood, has regained confidence, represented Scotland in mainstream bowls, and developed woodworking and upholstery skills. His journey from isolation to national recognition demonstrates the life-changing power of Shared Lives support.

Service Manager Tracy said: "It isn’t about a single moment of impact, but a culture that has been quietly transforming lives day in and day out… ours is a small service in numbers, but vast in heart."

The Impact Award recognises Shared Lives schemes making a measurable difference through innovation, collaboration or new ways of supporting people.

The 2025 Shared Lives Plus Shared Living Awards celebrate outstanding Shared Lives carers, schemes and Homeshare organisations across the UK, highlighting support that transforms lives and strengthens communities.

For more information and details of all the winners, visit: www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk/shared-lives-plus-awards-2025

For more information on the support that The Richmond Fellowship Scotland provide please email info@trfs.org.uk

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