Published on Friday 11 September 2020
The Shared Lives scheme offers help to vulnerable adults in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on a long or short-term basis enabling them to live in a home setting and providing them with the support they need.
Shared Lives carers offer support to adults with a physical or learning disability, mental health need, older people or those who had previously been in care offering a break to families and carers.
Shared Lives carers help with daily tasks from personal care and accessing health services, to making decisions and learning new skills, enabling individuals to live a full life in the community. The scheme enables vulnerable adults to be a part of the community with the benefit of living with a carer who is there to help meet their needs.
Councillor Lesley Dedman, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Health, BCP Council said:
"Shared lives is a wonderful scheme which supports the needs of the individual in a sympathetic home setting where they can become part of the household. The family members of the individual have the reassurance of knowing that the person is being treated well and respectfully - shared lives carers work with the family with regard to all aspects of the individual’s life."
Julie Fellows, Shared Live manager said:
"Shared Lives carers provide so much for vulnerable adults who would benefit from their help in a supportive environment. We would encourage anyone considering becoming a carer, or who would like to find out more, to contact our Shared Lives team. We can offer new carers training, support and regular updates to ensure they are comfortable and confident in their responsibilities. The responsibilities of looking after a vulnerable adult cannot be taken lightly but the benefits far outweigh any negatives."
Jackie and Phil Hubble from Bournemouth have been Shared Lives Carers for over ten years. They care for three vulnerable young adults in addition to their own children who also have specific needs.
Phil and Jackie said:
"We are passionate about the Shared Lives scheme. The benefits to the individual are huge. It’s very rewarding, not just for the people coming into your life, but for us as carers, too, by sharing part of their lives and supporting them.
"I would say to anyone who is considering becoming a Shared Lives carer, it’s a very rewarding job, but it does change the way you live your life – it’s a lifestyle change. You have to be the right person, but if you are, it can be incredibly rewarding – not just for yourself, but for the people you are looking after."
Shared Care placements can be long-term, short-term, respite or day support and the level of care required depends on the needs of the individual. Carers are carefully matched with the adult to ensure the placement best suits everyone involved. Shared Lives Carers receive full training, ongoing support and payment.
The Shared Lives scheme contributes to BCP Council’s priority for fulfilled lives helping people lead active, healthy and independent lives, adding years to life and life to years.
For more information email shared.lives@ bcpcouncil.gov.uk