Shared Lives scheme has made a difference in Lancashire

Shared Lives matches adults with disabilities, mental health needs and older people, with carers and families who can provide support in their home.

Care Knowledge, an organisation which supports the professional development of social care staff, has recognised the quality of the county council’s service. Shared Lives was featured in a report on services rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission. It was used as an example of a care service that fits in with the principles of the 2014 Care Act.

This news comes as the number of people being supported by Shared Lives in Lancashire has now passed the 380 mark.

County Coun Graham Gooch, cabinet member for adult services, said: “I’m pleased that our Shared Lives scheme has once again received national recognition.

“The idea is that people who need support live with Shared Lives Carers and their families.

“Placements vary in length from emergency support and short break respite care, to longer term living arrangements.

“Our Shared Lives Team matches people with carers who are best placed to support them with their individual needs. Lancashire’s Shared Lives Service is already the largest in the country. The fact 383 people now use the service is great news as research shows this is one of the best care options available. We are currently looking to recruit new carers to help us expand the service further this year.”

The county council aims to recruit carers to support a further 50 people in Shared Lives placements over the next three years.

Visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/sharedlives for more information.