Shared Lives provides care and support to vulnerable adults. The scheme recruits, trains and assesses individuals and families who can provide support within their own homes to people who need some form of support and assistance.
We work in partnership with social workers and care managers to identify people who would benefit from this type of service and to assist social workers in supporting their service users to move into a Shared Lives placement.
Who is the scheme for?
The scheme is for vulnerable adults and younger adults who live in the London Borough of Bromley, meet the eligibility criteria to access our services and need support to live independently. This includes
- people who have a diagnosed learning disability
- people with mental health needs
- people with general or complex disabilities
How does the scheme work?
Support is provided in the homes of our approved Shared Lives carers. We can provide day support, long term, short term or respite/ short break placements. It provides an alternative choice to traditional residential care for people who require support and enables the individual to share in family and community life, promoting independent living.
We also provide the opportunity for vulnerable adults to have daytime activities based in our approved carers homes.
Shared Lives officers carry out an assessment of all potential carer/s. This includes their skills, abilities, experience, background and that their property is up to standard. Medical, police and other checks are carried out on every potential carer. The assessment is then presented to an independent panel for approval. Once approved the carer has a named officer who will visit every 8-12 weeks and will also have access to support groups and ongoing training.
Before a vulnerable adult is placed, a matching panel is held and the individual is given the opportunity to discuss potential carers. Once placed the carer will receive a weekly payment for providing support/care and a home to the individual. We provide supervision and support to carers on how to share their homes and time with a vulnerable adult.
How much does it cost?
There is a charge to use this service. The amount depends on financial circumstances and ability to pay.
Further information
The scheme is registered with the CQC (Care Quality commission) and adheres to current legislation. View our latest inspection report
You can find out more about the scheme in the service users guide (PDF - 3.8 MB) and more about becoming a carer, alternatively please contact the team.