More paid carers needed to support adults with care and support needs

Leeds City Council is on the lookout to recruit more Shared Lives carers to support adults with a range of care needs.

People who are interested in finding out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer are being invited to attend a drop-in information session on Thursday 29 March, any time between 11am and 2pm at Enterprise House, 12 St Paul’s Street, Leeds LS1 2LE.

Shared Lives is an alternative approach to traditional residential respite and day services, in which trained Shared Lives carers provide an opportunity for short breaks and day support in their own homes.

A Shared Lives carer may provide various types of care to adults, including people with physical or sensory impairments; adults with learning disabilities; older people – perhaps with a level of dementia; and people experiencing mental ill health. Shared Lives also looks to offer support for people transitioning from children’s to adult services; and to cover in emergencies, if a carer is ill; in hospital; or for other domestic crises.

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply to become a Shared Lives carer. Previous experience is not necessary as comprehensive training and support is provided. However, it is important that the carer has a desire to help people and a commitment and positive approach to supporting vulnerable adults.

Being a Shared Lives carer is a paid-for (not voluntary) role and carers are recruited by Leeds City Council on a self-employed basis and will need to register with Her Majesty’s Revenues and Customs (HMRC). Carers can work flexibly and part-time to suit their circumstances.

Councillor Rebecca Charlwood, executive member for adults and health said:

"We are looking for people to become part of our Shared Lives community. These are extraordinary people who are happy to share their homes and their family lives, providing care and supporting adults with a variety of needs. It is a rewarding position which really makes a difference and provides an invaluable break for family carers. This is vital work in our compassionate city.”

The Shared Lives service is regulated by the Care Quality Commission.

For more information about becoming a Shared Lives carer people can call 0113 378 5410, or email shared.lives@leeds.gov.uk, or visit the drop in session on Thursday 29 March.