Paul told us how his Shared Lives carer role accidentally reunited some old college friends here. We've been talking to Deng about his 'new' old friends and what it means to him.
We hear you've met some old friends through spending time with Paul, your Shared Lives carer - tell us about it.
I first met Joe at Elms Bank College and I met him again when Paul took me round to Joe’s house. I used to go for tea to Joe’s when I lived on my own and going to college and Joe's mum remembered me.
How did you feel when you met Joe again?
Really happy, Joe is a good friend.
What happened when you and Joe had found each other again - did you arrange to call or meet him?
Joe’s mum asked me to stay for tea, he then came to my house for tea. We go out together every two or three weeks with Paul.
What sorts of things do you do together?
We both support Manchester City, so I watch matches in the pub with Paul, Jiva, Paul and Liam.
Do you meet up or chat when you aren't being supported by Shared Lives?
Yes, Joe’s mum and my carer Carol swapped numbers so they can help us arrange meetings by ourselves.
Is friendship important to you? Why?
Yes, because Joe is a good friend. Shared Lives has reunited me with Joe and I've made some new friends through Paul too.
Has Paul or anyone else helped you to be more confident about making arrangements with your friends?
Yes, Carol helped to also arrange things with Joe and I get on with my neighbours too, they will come and watch football with me.
Is there anything else you'd like to share about your 'new old' friends and what they and your carers have helped you to do?
I'm really happy to have friends to support City with!
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