Shared Lives is an alternative to supported living, home care and residential care homes.

It is for people aged over 16 who:

  • have a learning disability
  • have a physical disability
  • have mental health concerns
  • have dementia
  • need care and support because they are an older person
  • would benefit from support to live their lives

We can arrange long-term, short-term, respite or day support. People who are leaving the hospital can also ask for Shared Lives support. You may also get support at short notice.

What support you will get

A Shared Lives carer will support you in their home as part of their family. They can help you to:

  • complete everyday tasks
  • learn new skills
  • become independent
  • take part in social activities or events
  • access the local facilities
  • go out and about
  • make choices
  • achieve your personal outcomes
  • become part of your local community

Get referred to Shared Lives

Your social care worker or health care professionals can refer you to Shared Lives.

We will match you with an approved Shared Lives carer. You can meet your carer and get to know each other before you take their support.

Shared Lives is a model of care where support is provided in the carers home. It enables people with care and support needs to live 'gloriously ordinary lives' centred right in the heart of their communities.

Shared Lives is an alternative to supported living, home care and residential care homes. 
 
We are always looking for more people to become Shared Lives Carers. 

Become a Shared Lives Carer

Find out more about becoming a Share Lives Carer, what’s involved and the support you would receive.
Two people outdoors near a body of water taking a selfie, with one person seated in a wheelchair in the foreground and another person leaning in from behind and giving a thumbs-up, trees and a path visible in the background.

Shared Lives support

Find out more about the support available, who it’s for and how to access it.
Two people sitting at a kitchen table using a laptop together, with one person holding a mug while both look at the screen, kitchen items and a window in the background.

Become a Shared Lives Carer

Find out more about the role, what’s involved and the support you would receive.
Care Quality Commission logo with text, inspected and rated Good.

Dorset Shared Lives Scheme inspection report

Care Quality Commission (CQC) overall rating: Good. Report published: 14 March 2020

Shared Lives Team

Email: [email protected]
Tel: 01305 221393
Full contact details