AN ADULT foster carer from Sutton at Hone is encouraging others to open up their homes to help care for people with dementia.
Jenny Weaver, 68, is taking part in a Kent County Council scheme called Shared Lives, a new part of which is aimed at giving people with dementia the opportunity to be looked after in a family setting as an alternative to traditional residential care.
Shared Lives already provides carers for adults with learning and physical disabilities and Mrs Weaver has been caring for vulnerable adults herself for three years along with husband David, 64.
The Ship Lane resident, said: "I was a foster carer for 20 years and this is just like fostering, but for adults.
"We make sure they are safe and teach them life skills.
"Some people need to be supported and it really benefits them to get that support in a family environment.
"It’s very rewarding to help someone who has these difficulties, especially when you are helping them meet and overcome different challenges."
The scheme will officially launch during Dementia Awareness Week from May 19 to 25.
To find out more about becoming a carer, call 01233 652401, email APSKent@kent.gov.uk or visit kent.gov.uk/sharedlives
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