How do I become a Shared Lives Carer?
The Shared Lives application process takes about 2-3 months to complete. You will have the opportunity to ask lots of questions and will be fully supported throughout the process.
This is the only step you'll take alone but once you have, you'll find support through the rest of the application process and beyond. The first step is to call us or complete the enquiry form.
Visit from the Shared Lives workers and Scheme Manager to plan the start of the assessment. There will be the opportunity to learn more about the scheme and the assessment process as well as ask any questions.
We will visit you at your home to check that it could provide a safe environment for an individual to be cared for.
After you have completed your application form the Shared Lives worker will use the information to contact your referees and complete the form for your Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) check.
You will be supported through the pre-approval training programme, to help support this, your shared lives worker will visit you to discuss the training and we will make support materials available to you. Much of our training will be completed online and we can support you to access and complete this.
We will support you to prepare fully for your panel interview. You will be invited to attend a meeting of the Shared Lives Panel who review your full assessment report and consider your suitability to be a Shared Lives carer. If you have progressed this far through the process, we are confident most people, at this stage, will be approved. Most people find this a really positive process and it is designed to be a friendly and encouraging atmosphere.
Once the panel has approved your application, you are now a Shared Lives carer. At this stage, we will begin the matching process - finding a match that suits both you and the individual looking for support.
The support does not stop here. Now that you are a Shared Lives carer you will enjoy regular support and encouragement from your supervisor throughout your career as a Shared Lives carer. We will develop service specific training and support with arranging benefits and anything else you need support with.
