Could you care for a vulnerable adult in your home?
What do Shared Lives carers do?
- Some Shared Lives carers offer respite care, meaning they are able to provide short-term support, for example at weekends or a few days at a time.
-
Others decide to have people living with them on a long-term basis.
We are always looking for carers of both types in Lewisham.
Who can become a Shared Lives carer?
All kinds of people can become Shared Lives carers, for example:
- couples or single people
- anyone over the age of 21
- families with or without children
- homeowners or tenants
You should have a desire to help people with additional needs to be as independent as possible in a family environment.
You must live in the borough and have at least one spare bedroom in your home.
What you get as a carer
Support
-
training
-
careful matching of the person with you and your family
-
regular support from the Shared Lives coordinator
-
regular support meetings with other carers
-
access to other services and professionals in Lewisham
-
access to support from Shared Lives Plus, the national organisation.
Pay
-
You will be paid a weekly fee and will be self-employed. This means you will be responsible for making your own national insurance and tax payments.
-
You will also benefit from tax concessions.
-
Although you are paid, our carers feel that the scheme is more of a lifestyle choice than a job.
Becoming a carer
-
Becoming a Shared Lives carer is an in-depth process, similar to becoming a foster carer. It includes a very detailed assessment, police check and references.
-
Shared Lives is monitored by the Care Quality Commission, who ensure that care is provided to a high standard.
Register your interest
If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer, please fill in the online form and we will contact you.