Holly & Vicky
Shared Lives - Southwark
When Vicky was eight years old, she came into foster care with Lynne and her family. From the very beginning, she found a safe and loving home where she could grow up surrounded by care and security.
As Vicky reached adulthood, it was important that she could stay part of the same family she had grown up with. Now, through Ategi’s Shared Lives in Southwark, London, she continues to live as part of the family, this time supported by Holly, Lynne’s daughter, who has become her Shared Lives carer.
“She’s like one of the family,” says Holly. “We’ve put in place, God forbid anything happens to my mum, then I’ve done the training, then Vicky won’t leave the family… there’ll be no change for her.”
For Lynne, fostering Vicky and later supporting her through Shared Lives was always about giving her a stable home. “She called me mum,” Lynne shares simply, a reminder of the bond they’ve built over the years.
Shared Lives has meant that Vicky has been able to stay in the family home, rather than being placed somewhere unfamiliar. Life together is full of everyday joys and shared experiences. Vicky loves being part of family life, whether it’s going shopping, cooking together, or relaxing at home. She’s a big fan of her computer and Xbox, and her family laugh at how quickly she masters games and puzzles. “She’s intelligent that way, you know,” Lynne’s partner says proudly. “Nine times out of ten, she gets it right.”
Vicky is also a big help around the house; she’s keen to do her own washing, helps with chores, and always wants to be useful. Her life extends far beyond home, too. She spends time at the local clubhouse, where she enjoys dancing and socialising, and she also volunteers at the local food bank, something she takes real pride in and that her Shared Lives family are really proud of.
One of Holly and Vicky’s favourite things to do together is spend time in the community garden. They love planting and looking after the space, and sometimes even get to enjoy fresh produce they’ve grown themselves; they have even planted a tree there together.
Vicky and Holly have shared many adventures beyond their home. They’ve been on seaside trips and caravan weekends; they both love attending community parties and have enjoyed a Butlins holiday. They even travelled to Morocco together, creating memories that Vicky still loves to talk about. Each holiday has given her a chance to try new experiences and share them with the people she loves most.
Through Shared Lives, Vicky’s life has been one of consistency and belonging. She grew up with the same family who first cared for her and now has the security of knowing that Holly will continue to support her, so she will always have a home with them.
Her story shows how Shared Lives helps families stay together, building stability, independence, and connections.
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