Barnet Council is joining the national campaign to find people ready for a career change and willing to share their home and life to support people with a learning disability.
The council has joined the UK-wide network Shared Lives Plus, which matches approved carers with people who need support for their social care or health.
People can visit their Shared Lives carer for a few hours during the day, an overnight stay or even move in and become part of the family for many years.
Though no qualifications or experience is necessary, potential Shared Lives carers are assessed and approved, with training available depending on what they need. Once approved, Shared Lives carers are matched with people who have similar interests and a similar lifestyle.
Councillor Sachin Rajput, Chair of the Adults and Safeguarding Committee, said: “We hope this scheme will help hundreds of adults who may otherwise feel isolated and alone. They will become part of a loving family that supports their needs in a friendly and empathetic way.”
Shared Lives carers are paid a generous package payment starting from £470 a week providing live-in support, with substantial tax-free allowances!
Fazna Clifford, service manager, said: “Many people prefer home comforts with the support and company of people you get on with and have chosen to visit or live with. Shared Lives is a personal and flexible way of life – the beauty is that it feels like friendship with professional support and not a service at all. Now we really can choose our families!
“We’re looking for people who are looking for a rewarding change in lifestyle, using their caring skills or experience to help someone else fulfil their potential. Whether you’ve got young children or they’ve flown the nest, if you’ve got a spare room for someone to move in or have an empty house during the day to run some fun activities, we’d love to hear from you.”
If you are interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, please ring 0208 3593576 or email shared.lives@barnet.gov.uk. Find out more at: barnet.gov.uk/sharedlives