Shared Lives Service

What is Shared Lives?

Most of us think that home, family and friends are the most important things in life and this is also the case for people with support needs. East Lothian's Shared Lives service provides this for people who may otherwise live much more isolated and lonely lives. Shared Lives arrangements range from offering support for a few hours a week (day support), to overnights stays (short breaks) or providing a long term home (long term). Shared Lives Carers are self-employed and receive a fee for their work. Shared Lives is run by East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership and is registered with the Care Inspectorate.

Who uses Shared Lives?

Shared Lives supports people who:

• are over 16 and have a specific support need that may be because of a learning disability, physical disability, sensory impairment, autism and/or mental health
• are older, 
• are living with dementia

The matching process and choice is key. We carefully match people using the service to carers and both parties have a choice. This is fundamental to the success of the service.

Could you be a Shared Lives Carer?

Working as a Shared Lives Carer can be flexible so it can fit in with your life and your availability. We are looking for people (families or individuals) who:

• are from all walks of life and backgrounds, no qualifications are needed
• have personal qualities such as patience, flexibility and compassion
• are good communicators
• are willing to work on a self-employed basis
• want to support people to realise their potential have a spare room (for short breaks and long term support).

We are particularly looking for people who can provide either day support  in your local community or short breaks. Day support includes for example: sharing hobbies such as craft or gardening  or doing activities together such as an exercise class or walking. Short Break carers have someone to stay in their own home for an agreed length of time - this could be a weekend or for up to few weeks.

Read more case studies from Shared Lives carers and families

Application process

• complete an application form
• give the names of referees
• undergo a PVG and criminal records check
• meet regularly with one of the Shared Lives Co-ordinators to assess your suitability.

Carers receive ongoing training and support from our Shared Lives Coordinators who work within the Health and Social Care Standards and the Scottish Social Services Council Codes of Practice. The service is registered with and regulated by the Care Inspectorate.

Ready to take the next step?

Download an enquiry pack