Frequently asked questions
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Do I need to be a full time carer?
No. Carers can offer a range of different support, such as day support, short stays, or short breaks, or can choose to provide a full time, long stay placement.
Do I get paid?
Yes. There are different payment rates depending on how much of your time is needed, but it can be between £250 and £400 a week.
What are the accommodation requirements?
You need to have at least one spare bedroom available. You don’t have to be a homeowner, although tenants should ask their landlord’s permission. A member of the team will visit you at your home as part of the application process.
What type of people can be carers? Is it OK to be single, have children, etc?
Anyone over 18 can apply to become a carer regardless of whether you are single, in an older couple, or have children – Shared Lives households come in all shapes and sizes.
Do I need to have experience in caring to apply?
You don’t need any experience in caring or working in a health setting to apply to be a Shared Lives Carer. Our carers have varied skills and experience.
When you are preparing to be a Shared Lives carer you will receive training to help you and your family identify and build upon the skills you already have and develop any new skills you might need. Being a Shared Lives carer is more about your willingness to support and include someone in your home and community life.
Can I have another job at the same time?
Yes, you can have another job – some Shared Lives carers continue to work, and some make Shared Lives their full-time jobs.
Can I choose who I support?
We match Shared Lives households based on the preferences of both carers and Shared Lives users, and together with you, we will consider a number of factors, including your home, family, lifestyle, and anything that you might have in common. We then do a series of introductions carried out over sufficient time to ensure everyone is happy with the arrangement.