A DUNFERMLINE couple who started caring to support two former Lynebank Hospital patients were thanked for their efforts this week.

Les and Ethel Foy have been carers for Shared Life Fife for 30 years.
Ethel was a staff nurse at the hospital before the couple decided to support two patients so they were able to move out of the hospital and back into the community.

Since then, she and Les have provided a home for many adults – particularly those with learning disabilities.

Their caring nature has obviously rubbed off as two of their daughters are now following in their parents’ footsteps and are carers with Shared Life Fife.

And their grandson provides regular day support to help individuals to access their local community.

The couple’s efforts were marked with a celebration at their home at which Ann Fernie, previous manager of Shared Lives Fife, presented them with a bouquet of flowers and a certificate in recognition of their long service.

The couple said they felt “pleased and privileged” to have done the job for so long.

“It’s great seeing first-hand the difference that the work has had on people’s lives and watching them grow as people,” they said. “Coming into a home environment allows them to become more independent and enables them to connect with the community.”

Suzanne McGuinness, team manager of Shared Lives Fife, said Ethel and Les had had a significant impact on many people’s lives.

“They have shown dedication to improving the lives of others and providing care and support for those in need,” she added.

“Shared Lives would like to thank and recognise Ethel and Les for their dedication and service.”