How can Shared Lives help you

How the Shared Lives service works

Shared Lives can provide you with different options of support based on your circumstances. Options include:

• Day support: where you can visit your Shared Lives Carer during the day to enjoy various activities such as baking, arts and crafts or walks in the park.
• Overnight support: where you can visit your Shared Lives Carer and stay overnight for a few nights or in a regular arrangement. This could be an ideal option for when you need a break from your main care provider, or if you would like to take it step by step in your Shared Lives journey.  
• Live in support: where you move into your Carer’s home and share in their life completely. 

Be in control of your care

We take time to understand your care and support needs, interests, hobbies, and goals. Based on this, we match you with a compatible, highly skilled Shared Lives Carer. You’ll have the chance to meet and spend time with them before making any decisions.

Our 4 step process:

• understand your needs
• find out your living expectations
• match you with a Carer who’s right for you
• get you settled in

Your Shared Lives carer

The Shared Lives Carer that we match you with, go through an assessment process before they are approved as Shared Lives Carers.  

Some of the checks we carry out are:

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked, referenced, and carefully assessed and are reviewed annually.  
• thorough assessment process, including checks on their home, vehicles, employment, and health. 
• all carers are regularly supervised and trained according to the standards covered in the care certificate. 

We have a diverse group of carers; from various backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures, and religions, who we are able to match you with.

How to get referred to Shared Lives Barnet

Shared Lives supports individuals aged 16 and over with a care and support need. To start using the Shared Lives service, a referral needs to be made.

1. Contact Social Care Direct to discuss how Shared Lives could work for you
2. Your needs and level of support will be assessed by a social worker, who will then refer you to us.

Find out more information on the assessment process and the Care act assessment.