COULD you offer a home to a vulnerable or disabled adult?

It may initially sound daunting. But those already involved with the Kirklees Shared Lives Scheme point out that the rewards – on all sides – can be enormous.

Take Thornhill couple, Pat and Elaine. In late 2010, they opened their home to Terry who has learning disabilities and works full-time as a gardener, a job he loves.

He says that going to live with Pat and Elaine has changed his life. They say the same about him.

For what this unique caring scheme does is enable vulnerable people to live their lives to the full in a secure, happy environment where they are made to feel part of the family.

It’s worked for Terry, Pat and Elaine and those running the scheme say it could work for many more people too.

Those in need of support are welcomed into the homes and lives of dedicated, committed carers and made to feel part of a real family. It helps people to live more independent lives, to work and to learn skills.

And as Pat and Elaine have found, it can enrich family life, knowing that you are nurturing someone else and helping them to live a fulfilling life.

Now the team behind the scheme are urging more people to open their homes and make a difference to people like Terry.

Join them at an information day tomorrow at the Textile Centre, Red Doles Lane, off Leeds Road, from 1pm-5pm. You could change someone’s life.