Shared Lives

The 'Shared Lives' service is housing with care support, provided by individuals, couples and families in their own homes who have been approved and trained for that role.

A 'person supported' is carefully matched for compatibility to live with a Shared Lives carer as part of their daily living arrangements within the carer’s home. Shared Lives carers can also provide support either within or outside of the home of the carer.

Wirral’s Shared Lives service is managed by a team in Wirral Council from 1 April 2023 following a transition from PSS.

Who can benefit from Shared Lives?

Shared Lives support enables a wide range of people who need support to live independent lives and have their health and wellbeing promoted, including:

  • adults with learning disabilities
  • adults with autism
  • adults who experience mental health problems
  • people with physical disability
  • people with sensory impairment
  • older people including people with dementia
  • young adults transitioning from Children’s Services

Shared Lives placements can be:

  • long term
  • short term
  • short breaks
  • day support

What has changed from 1 April 2023?

All Shared Lives placements and the management of the Shared Lives carers have transferred as of the 1 April 2023.

Will we have an allocated key worker with a direct line to them?

Yes, a trained key worker will be assigned to ensure regular contact, continuity and support is available to carers with a direct contact number.

Is there a designated office space for Shared Lives?

The Shared Lives team will be based from The Grange, Wallasey.

Is there 24 hour support?

Shared Lives Carers know and understand their role and, depending on the severity of the emergency or crisis, the Shared Lives Carer may need to contact emergency services directly such as:

  • Ambulance
  • Police
  • Fire Services
  • NHS Helpline
  • Mental health crisis team or
  • Emergency Duty Team

All incidents need to be reported to the Registered Manager as soon as possible.

Will the training I have completed with PSS be accepted by Wirral Council or do I need to re-do it?

The core training completed at PSS is transferrable to Wirral Council if the completion date is current.

How will training and support be offered to carers? Will there be changes?

All Shared Lives carers will be expected to complete relevant training courses to support them to carry out the role, similar to those required by PSS. We have a proactive approach to developing knowledge and skills and we will endeavour to make it relevant to the life world of Shared Lives.

We will look to shape mandatory and enhanced training together; any ideas about how you would like training delivered let us know and we will see what we can do.

Will we have to pay for DBS/Shared Lives+?

Yes. The cost of renewing a DBS and membership to Shared Lives Plus will continue to be paid for by carers due to their self-employed status. 

Will I have to apply for a separate DBS check if I work for 2 different Shared Lives services?

No, a single DBS check is adequate - as long as both services have a joint working protocol in place to ensure compliance for this requirement.

What are your plans for the future of the service? 

The council are fully committed to growing the service and, using a network approach to make sustainable links to a model of collaborative practice.

Will council staff and other stakeholders be more aware of Shared Lives?

Yes. It is the council’s intention to promote awareness and to make Shared Lives an integral part of our strategy to a more person centred, community-based approach supporting the individual at the heart.

How can I get in touch with the service? 

If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact us by email at sharedlives@wirral.gov.uk