How to Become a Shared Lives Carer

A Shared Lives carer offers a unique and fulfilling career in health and social care. This role involves sharing your home and life with an adult who needs support due to disability, age, or health issues.

By becoming a Shared Lives carer, you support individuals in living independently and integrating into the community.

How to Become a Shared Lives Carer

Initial Steps

To become a Shared Lives carer, you need a genuine desire to make a positive difference. The steps to get started include:

1. Initial Enquiry: Contact your local Shared Lives scheme. Most areas in the UK have one.
2. Application Form: Complete an application detailing your skills, experience, and motivation.
3. Home Visit: A scheme officer will visit you to assess your home and discuss your suitability.
4. Assessment Process: This involves a series of interviews and background checks, including an enhanced DBS check.
5. Approval Panel: Once your assessment is complete, your application will be presented to an approval panel.
6. Training: Complete mandatory training provided by the Shared Lives scheme.

Qualifications and Experience

• No Formal Qualifications Required: You don’t need specific qualifications, but previous experience in care or social work is beneficial.
• Training Provided: You will receive training covering personal care, safeguarding, medication management, and first aid.

What It Takes and Skills Needed to Be a Shared Lives Carer

Personal Qualities

• Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of another.
• Patience: Staying calm and patient, especially in challenging situations.
• Commitment: Willingness to commit time and effort to support someone long-term.
• Flexibility: Ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances.

Core Skills

• Communication: Clear and effective communication with the person in your care and their support network.
• Organisation: Managing daily routines, appointments, and necessary paperwork.
• Problem-Solving: Quickly addressing and resolving issues that arise.
• Basic Care Skills: Providing personal care, preparing meals, and managing medication.

What You Will Do: Duties of a Shared Lives Carer

Daily Tasks

• Personal Care: Assisting with bathing, dressing, and other personal hygiene needs.
• Household Tasks: Preparing meals, cleaning, and helping with laundry.
• Medication Management: Ensuring medications are taken as prescribed.
• Social Support: Encouraging participation in social activities and community integration.

Emotional and Psychological Support

• Building Relationships: Developing a trusting, supportive relationship with the individual.
• Emotional Support: Providing a listening ear and emotional comfort.
• Promoting Independence: Encouraging the person to make decisions and be as independent as possible.

The Work Setting for a Shared Lives Carer

Home Environment

• Residential Setting: You will provide care in your own home.
• Homely Atmosphere: Create a welcoming, safe, and comfortable environment.

Community Involvement

• Community Activities: Engage the person in local groups, events, and activities.
• Inclusive Environment: Foster inclusion and active participation in community life.

Expected Pay for a Shared Lives Carer

Payment Structure

• Allowance: Shared Lives carers receive a weekly allowance. This varies by location and the needs of the person in your care.
• Tax-Free Payments: The income you earn is tax-free up to a certain limit.

Typical Earnings

• Range: Earnings generally range from £350 to £600 per week, depending on the level of care provided.

Career Progression Opportunities for a Shared Lives Carer

Expanding Your Role

• Taking On More Individuals: After gaining experience, you may take on more than one individual if your home allows.
• Specialised Training: Participate in additional training for specific needs like dementia care or autism support.

Professional Development

• Career in Social Care: Use your experience to transition into other roles within social care, such as support worker or care coordinator.
• Further Education: Pursue qualifications and certifications in health and social care to enhance your skills and opportunities.

Shared Lives Carer FAQ

What is a Shared Lives carer?

A Shared Lives carer looks after adults with support needs, providing care in a home setting. They share their home and life, helping individuals lead an independent and fulfilling life.

How does Shared Lives differ from traditional care?

Shared Lives focuses on a family-like environment, unlike traditional residential care homes. It’s about integrating into community life and building personal relationships.

Do I need previous care experience?

No formal experience is required, though it is beneficial. What matters most is your commitment, empathy, and willingness to help.

What training will I receive?

You’ll receive comprehensive training covering areas like safeguarding, personal care, medication management, and first aid.

Can I choose who I care for?

Yes, you’ll be matched with a person whose needs and personality fit well with your home and lifestyle. Both parties have the opportunity to agree to the arrangement.

How much will I be paid?

Payments vary, but Shared Lives carers typically earn between £350 to £600 per week. Payments are often tax-free up to a certain limit, depending on your circumstances.

Is my home suitable for Shared Lives care?

Your home will be assessed by the scheme to ensure it meets safety and suitability standards. You must be willing to adapt your home for accessibility if required.

What support will I have?

You’ll receive ongoing support from your local Shared Lives scheme, including regular visits, access to training, and a support network of other carers.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a Shared Lives carer offers a rewarding opportunity to make a significant difference in someone’s life. It requires empathy, commitment, and flexibility. You’ll help individuals live independently while creating a supportive and inclusive home environment. With proper training and support, you can build a fulfilling career in health and social care, with opportunities for personal and professional growth.