Wolverhampton teenager no longer alone for festive season

Raised in care because of a neglectful upbringing, the 18-year-old social care student has moved in with carers Daniela and Tano Sicilia through the Shared Lives scheme.

She moved in with the couple in October and will spend the big day enjoying things many of us take for granted.

Abbie said: "It is fantastic living with Daniela and Tano. It is so much fun and I'm really looking forward to Christmas, especially the big family party they have at New Year. I feel like I have my own family now and it feels really good."

Shared Lives, run by PSS in the West Midlands and Staffordshire, aims to get vulnerable adults and young people living with specially trained carers. This offers needy people an opportunity for them to live in the community. Nearly 10,000 people are helped by the scheme nationally.

The Sicilias, who live in Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton, are originally from Italy, and opened their home after feeling they had a lot to offer as a family.

Mrs Sicilia said: "We are from a big family and are very family-orientated and have supported lots of different individuals, mostly in residential settings.

"We enjoy getting to know someone and them getting to know us and it gives us great satisfaction when someone achieves something with support from us.

"It is so rewarding and you get lots of help and support from PSS but there is always a shortage of carers."

Jade Young, service co-ordinator at PSS, said: "We are delighted that Daniela and Tano have opened their home to Abbie. She is really settling in and it is very rewarding to see. We are always appealing for Shared Lives carers as the aim is to allow people to pursue ordinary lives within their chosen families and relationships. We would love to hear from people who are interested in finding out more about Shared Lives."

For more information on becoming a Shared Lives carer, call 01543 448380 or see pss.org.uk