Shared Lives Carers are from all walks of life. Some have professional qualifications and a background of working within a health and social care setting, but there are Shared Lives Carers who also have personal experience that they can bring to the role.
Shared Lives Carers are responsible for balancing the needs and lifestyles of everyone in their household. The Shared Lives Carer will understand and respect confidentiality and the rights to privacy of the people they support.
Shared Lives Carers will build positive relationships with the people they are matched with and the important people in their lives. They will work together to support people to be independent in all aspects of day-to-day life.
The Shared Lives Carers will provide a healthy and safe home. They will support people to maintain and develop their independence safely, support people to access community services and facilities, and follow relevant policies and procedures. They will also undertake and maintain the required learning and development needed to be a Carer.
Shared Lives Carers will work in partnership with the Shared Lives Scheme by meeting regularly with the Shared Lives worker, other professionals and people involved within the person’s life.
Role of the Shared Lives Scheme
The Shared Lives Scheme is a team of qualified staff who are employed by West Sussex County Council and are responsible for recruiting, assessing, training, monitoring and supporting the self- employed Shared Lives Carers. The Shared Lives Carers are provided with regular supervision, advice, guidance and are regularly monitored and reviewed.
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