Imagine welcoming someone into your home, offering them kindness, support, and a sense of belonging while making a positive difference in their life.
That’s the heart of the Westmorland and Furness Shared Lives Scheme — a truly rewarding initiative where people can open their homes to support adults with care needs, helping them live as independently as possible in a safe and nurturing environment.
Shared Lives can work as an alternative to traditional care or provide respite for unpaid carers out in the community.
Unlike traditional forms of care, Shared Lives is about building genuine relationships. Whether it’s a person with a learning disability, an older individual, or someone in need of companionship and additional support, you’re not just providing care — you’re offering a home, friendship, and the opportunity for a richer, more fulfilling life.
As a Shared Lives carer, you become part of a life-changing journey, helping others thrive while being part of a close-knit community.
Joining Shared Lives isn’t just about helping someone — it’s about personal growth, forming lasting connections, and enriching your own life.
Many carers say the relationships they’ve built through the scheme are among the most meaningful experiences of their lives.
We have many success stories from people who have been supported by the Shared Lives scheme, including supporting someone to go on their first holiday with his brother for the first time, another securing a volunteer job in their dream setting and another who finished their first year of university with the support of their dedicated carer.
The unique support of Shared Lives enables both the carer and person being supported to work together to goals and ambitions. It’s an incredibly rewarding position to be in.
For carers, the role can be flexible and can fit around your lifestyle. Whether you want to offer short-term respite care, day support, or long-term arrangements, the scheme allows you to tailor your involvement to your capacity and interests.
Full training and ongoing support are provided, ensuring you have the skills and confidence to make a real difference. Plus, financial allowances are offered to acknowledge your dedication.
By becoming a Shared Lives carer in Westmorland and Furness, you can contribute to a more inclusive community, where everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity, independence, and respect. If you’re someone who values compassion, warmth, and connection, this could be the perfect role for you.
If you are interested in the scheme, either to support a loved one or yourself, you can contact the Adult Social Care team who will complete an assessment of your needs: https://www.westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/adult-social-care/assessing-your-needs
