A Somerset-based charity which supports adults with care and support needs has celebrated its 20th anniversary this month.

Shared Lives South West (SLSW) provides specialised support for individuals with issues such as learning disabilities, autism, mental ill health, dementia and for older people.

Based in Ilminster, the charity operates a model similar to adult fostering and aims to promote the independence of those receiving support.

The charity, boasting an 'Outstanding' rating by the Care Quality Commission, operates across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.

More than 280 SLSW approved carers support 450 people through the scheme.

SLSW CEO Dominic Spayne said: "This anniversary marks a significant milestone for us, and we're thrilled to celebrate it throughout the year.

"We have exciting meet-ups lined up for Shared Lives Week in June, bringing together households, staff and the broader Shared Lives community.

"Our journey has seen remarkable growth and we have evolved to include more services and counties and collaborate closely with local authorities to deliver high quality, person-centered services.

"Our driving force is to create meaningful, positive impacts on the lives of those we support, a commitment we uphold each and every day."