A service which works like foster care but for adults is looking for someone to help look after Janet.

Lancashire County Council’s Shared Lives scheme has been given an outstanding rating by the Care Quality Commission.

It matches adults with learning disabilities, the elderly and people with mental health needs with carers and their families.

Inspectors found Shared Lives to be outstanding in all five areas as safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.

Cabinet member for adults services county councillor Graham Gooch said: “This is tremendous news.

“Our Shared Lives service was recognised as outstanding previously. The team has worked hard to maintain this excellent standard, but has actually improved the service again as we achieved outstanding in all five areas covered by the inspection.

“Well done to the team and all our Shared Lives carers for all their hard work. They should be very proud of their achievements.”

Read more: The P-Town Podcast launches

Now the county council is highlighting Janet and her story.

Her carer Alison has been diagnosed with a serious illness and they can no longer live together.

They’ve lived together in the Preston, South Ribble, area for the last 15 years, with Alison supporting Janet.

Janet is 55 and lives with her dog Bailey.

Alison said: “Janet and I get along really well together. We both get such a lot out of Shared Lives and I’ve really enjoyed being her carer over the years.

“However, I’ve recently been diagnosed with a serious illness and although I am still well enough to look after her at the moment, I won’t be able to continue as a Shared Lives carer.

“I’m absolutely heartbroken, but determined to make sure Janet gets the support and the home she needs when I become unwell.

“If you think you could be a Shared Lives care and welcome Janet and Bailey into your home, please get in touch with our team.”

Shared Lives manager Mike Schofield said: “Alison has done an absolutely fantastic job caring for Janet and it’s very sad that she cannot continue in her role.

“We’re appealing for someone, preferably someone from the South Ribble or Preston area, to come forward and support Janet and provide a home for Janet and her small dog Bailey.

“Janet has learning disabilities, which means she needs support around the house with daily living. She will also need support getting out and about, having days out and going on holiday.

“As a Shared Lives carer, you will get all the support you need from our team and a package to ensure all your carers expenses are covered.

“We want you to get in touch as soon as possible if you think you can provide a home for Janet and Bailey.”

If you would like to be a Shared Lives Carer for Janet, call 01772531326 or email sharedlives@lancashire.gov.uk.

Read more: Preston’s female creatives are putting ‘community ahead of competition’