A SELFLESS couple are being held up as a shining example after they agreed to share their home with a vulnerable adult as part of a pioneering project.

Inspirational carers Angela and Adrian Cairey look after Kerry Anderson, 38, at their Southend home, giving her help to lead an independent live.

The couple volunteered as part of Southend Council’s innovative Shared Lives scheme, which sees carers from all walks of life offer a home to people with learning difficulties who need additional help in daily life.

The council’s community team for people with learning difficulties, which spearheaded the scheme, is now searching for others to support the project.

As a result of Angela and Adrian’s support, Kerry, from Southend, now takes karate lessons, has a voluntary job and enjoys a range of community activities.

She said: “It’s everything to me. I’ve got my freedom and am growing in confidence so I can be more independent.

“I’m happy and enjoying myself. I get on well with my mum and dad, but it’s nice having my own life.

“What I want to be able to do next is get on buses so I can go to the shops on my own.”

Mrs Cairey hopes, with her help, Kerry will eventually be able to move into her own flat.

She said: “When Kerry first came she was a little bit shy, quiet and eager to please. But she soon settled in and we’ve worked hard so she can walk to places on her own.

“She’s completely changed now. She’s grown her hair, she’s good at choosing her own clothes and has really grown in confidence.

“It works well with her being part of the family – we do all the normal things, like falling out. She gets the occasional cuddle and even tells me off sometimes!”

The council is keen to recruit individuals or families who have a spare bedroom and can offer long-term placements.

Lesley Salter, Tory councillor responsible for adult social care, said: “We are seeking people with a genuine interest in others.

“They must be understanding and positive, ready to support people to live the life they choose as independently as possible.

“They do not need to have experience of working with vulnerable people. It’s just as important to have a willingness to understand the need of others.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Shared Lives scheme should attend a drop-in session at the Civic Centre, in Victoria Avenue, Southend, between 11am and 3pm tomorrow.

For more information, call 01702 215008.