Could you be a Shared Lives carer? Your questions answered

Have you ever thought about using your home and your time to help someone live more independently

Shared Lives is a council-run, CQC regulated service in Wirral that matches carers with adults who need a bit of support. Instead of care happening in a service or residential setting, it takes place in a real home, through everyday life, shared routines and relationships.

It’s flexible, fully supported, and open to people from all walks of life. If you’ve got a spare room and want to make a difference, it could be something you’ve never considered, but might be right for you.

We spoke to our Shared Lives team to answer some of the most common questions they hear from local residents.

What is Shared Lives?

In practice, Shared Lives is about supporting someone in a way that feels natural and part of everyday life.
That could mean sharing meals, going out together, helping someone build confidence, or simply being therefor support when it’s needed.

Every arrangement is slightly different, but the focus is always the same, helping someone feel part of a home and live as independently as possible.

Who could I support?

Shared Lives supports adults aged 16 and over with a wide range of needs.

This includes:

• people with learning disabilities
• autistic people
• those with mental health needs
• individuals with physical disabilities
• those living with dementia

It can also support people going through big life changes, such as moving on from foster care or needing extra support as a parent.

The aim is simple: to help people live independently as part of a home and community.

What kind of support would I give?

There’s no single way to be a Shared Lives carer.

Some people offer long-term support, where someone lives with them. Others offer short breaks, day support or short-term help to build independence.

The type of support you offer depends on what works for you.

Do I need experience?

You don’t need to have worked in care before or have any care experience. What matters most is your life experience and your willingness to support someone.

You’ll receive full training and ongoing support, and you’ll have a dedicated officer guiding you through everything.

Who can become a Shared Lives carer?

You don’t need to fit a set mould.

Shared Lives carers come from all walks of life. Some have cared for others before, while others are completely new to it. What they share is a willingness to support someone and a home they can share.

The main things you’ll need are:

• a spare room
• a stable home
• and the ability to offer time, patience and support

Families come in all shapes and sizes, and Shared Lives reflects that.

Is there financial support?

Yes, Shared Lives carers are paid for the support they provide.

Payments depend on the type of support. For example, long-term carers currently receive around £600+ per week per person, while day support is paid from £40.35 per half day.

The team will talk this through clearly, so you understand how it works before you commit.

What support will I get?

You won’t be on your own.

Shared Lives carers are supported throughout, from the first enquiry to long after they’re approved.

You’ll have:
•    a dedicated placement officer
•    training before you start
•    regular support and check-ins
•    someone to contact if you need advice

How does the process work?

It starts with a conversation.

You’ll have an informal chat with the team to find out if it’s right for you. If you decide to go ahead, you’ll be supported through checks, training and an approval panel.

This isn’t a test — it’s just a chance for people to get to know you.

Once approved, you’ll be matched with someone who suits your home and lifestyle. This process is done carefully, so it feels right for everyone.

Interested in finding out more?

If you’re curious about becoming a Shared Lives carer, the first step is simply to get in touch.

There’s no pressure, just a chance to ask questions and see if it feels right for you.

Email sharedlives@wirral.gov.uk to get started, or head to wirral.gov.uk/sharedlives for more information.