Payment, support and training for Shared Lives carers

If you decide to become a Shared Lives Carer, you won't be alone.

We provide excellent support through our Shared Lives Team. This service is rated as Outstanding by the CQC (Care Quality Commission).

You'll get as much support as you need from the point you decide to make an enquiry. This will continue throughout the application and assessment process.

You'll be able to contact our Shared Lives support workers whenever you need them.

Payment

You'll be paid a generous allowance as a Shared Lives Carer ranging from £26,000 to £33,800 a year (£400-£650 a week). It is paid monthly. That's an income of between £500 and £650 per week.

This amount varies according to how much care is required and the needs of the person you support.

The allowance includes a contribution towards food and utility bills.

There are special tax rules for some Shared Lives carers. An amount of what you'll receive is exempt from tax.

Other incentives

You'll be able to work from home, fitting duties around your family commitments.

You get up to six weeks paid respite (for long-term carers) to give you time off from your caring role.

There are other benefits such as qualifying for the Blue Light discount card find out more on the Blue Light card website. 

Support

We'll support you as a Shared Lives carer by providing:

  • advice whenever you need it by calling or emailing us
  • routine visits where we'll have a chat about how things are going
  • regular newsletters providing important information
  • events where you can catch up with other Shared Lives Carers from your area
  • a carers handbook full of advice, hints and tips.
  • Information on how to join Shared Lives Plus

Shared Lives Plus is a national organisation offering guidance and advice regarding Shared Lives. Visit the Shared Lives Plus website for more information.

Training

We give you all the training you'll need to fulfil your role as a Shared Lives Carer.

You don't need to have any specialist qualifications or experience.

There are mandatory training courses which you'll need to complete including:

  • Shared Lives induction
  • safeguarding adults training
  • first aid
  • positive behavioural support (PBS)
  • medication management
  • information governance
  • moving and handling

You'll need to complete refresher training on these topics from time to time.

There are lots of other courses available to help you develop new skills.

These will help you grow in your role as a Shared Lives Carer. They are also great for your personal development.

We'll provide you with all the information you need about training if you become a carer.