Becoming a shared lives carer

Being a shared lives carer is very rewarding. Our carers support people to lead full and positive lives.

Who can be a carer?

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to become a carer.

We are looking for people who:

• wish to share their home, family and community life with another person
• have an interest in supporting people to live full lives, make their own choices and have new experiences
• have time to offer to someone who needs support in areas of their life
• have a stable home environment
• have  sensitivity and warmth
• can make a commitment

Various types of placement are available to suit your lifestyle from long-term placements to short-term and emergency placements. Our about the scheme section provides further details.

You don’t need to have any experience of supporting people to apply to become a carer, however many people who apply do have some experience either from their work or personal lives. We provide a comprehensive induction programme as well as offering regular training courses and ongoing support. The most important attribute we look in our carers is a genuine wish to provide positive support and share aspects of their lives with other people.

Fees

Carers are paid a fee for all placements they provide. These vary depending on the type of placement that you provide.

How to apply

If you feel that you have the skills and ability to become an adult placement carer, please contact us.

The assessment process

When you apply, we will allocate you to a Scheme Worker who will arrange to visit you and talk you through the process. If you wish to proceed, the same Scheme Worker will take you through the assessment process.