What the scheme offers Carers

What can the scheme offer you?

• Initial assessment and presentation to panel
• Introduction to prospective scheme users
• Support in ensuring regular payments are made throughout the duration of a placement
• Regular support through routine visits
• Advice via telephone
• Support in accessing other services
• Ongoing training
• Opportunity to network with other Shared Lives Carers
• Information sharing
• Participation in regular reviews

Respite

As a Shared Lives Carer you would be entitled to up to 6 weeks respite (break from accommodating and supporting the scheme user) per year.  The scheme aims to recruit sufficient Shared Lives Respite Carers to provide this service.  All respite should be planned in agreeemnt with your Shared Lives Worker.

If for any reason you are unable to provide care to the person yourself, e.g. family crisis, hospital admission, you should contact your Shared Lives Worker immediately.  In the event of an emergency, if you are unable to contact the Shared Lives Worker you should contact the Social Carers Emergency Duty Team.

You may be able to identify a Support Worker from within your current family or social network.  This person may be able to provide you with short periods of respite for example to enable you to go out for the evening, or to attend appointments.  Any person taking on this role must be approved by the Shared Lives Scheme, they would be required to provide references, undertake an enhanced CRB check and go through a modified assessment process.

What should I do next to become a Shared Lives Carer?

Practical Considerations and Financial Matters

If, having read through the information on this website you feel you have the necessary qualities and accommodation to become a Shared Lives Carer and you wish to proceed with an application or, if you would like more information please contact us and we will be happy to talk through the application process and answer any questions you have.