If you’re looking for a way to make a difference in someone’s life, discover how you could become a Shared Lives carer this Shared Lives Week, 15 to 21 June.
Shared Lives matches adults with support needs with approved carers, helping them live as part of a household and community.
Knowsley Shared Lives is now recruiting carers to provide flexible, home-based support for adults in the borough.
Where can I find out more?
This year’s theme is ‘Shout About Shared Lives – care worth talking about’ and the Shared Lives team will be doing just that as they get out and about across the borough. Come along, have a chat with the team and find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer. They will be at:
Kirkby Town Centre (near the tree on Newton Gardens), Tuesday 16 June, 10am-2pm
Huyton Town Centre (outside Home and Bargain), Wednesday 17 June, 10am-2pm
Prescot Town Centre (outside the former Halifax Bank), Thursday 18 June, 10am-2pm
The team will explain that there are lots of ways you can get involved with the Shared Lives scheme. You can offer a permanent home to someone, or short break support to give permanent carers a break. Carers will receive payment, training and 24/7 support.
Both families and individuals of any age can get involved with Shared Lives – which offers a great opportunity for anyone seeking a new challenge, or maybe approaching retirement.
Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care Cllr Del Arnall said:
“Shared Lives is a wonderful scheme which offers people the chance to live ordinary, fulfilling lives as part of a family and community.
“It can be transformative for those who may never have had the chance to experience that sense of belonging before.
“Shared Lives carers play such an important role in making this happen. It’s a unique and deeply rewarding way to support others, and we’d warmly welcome anyone interested to find out more.”
The Shared Lives Service is part of Together We Care – Knowsley Council’s in-house services providing support for adults with complex care and support needs.
Find out more about Shared Lives
To mark Shared Lives Week, Shared Lives Plus — the UK membership charity for schemes and carers — is hosting a free ‘Shout About Shared Lives’ webinar on Thursday 18 June, 2pm to 3pm, giving people the chance to find out more about this rewarding role.
You can sign up here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Every Shared Lives arrangement is carefully selected. Local schemes introduce people based on shared values, personalities, and lifestyle – not just care needs. Matches are made in a similar format you’d take when choosing a housemate, partner or friend. That’s why Shared Lives often leads to long-term, life-changing relationships.
What makes Shared Lives different is the matching and preparation process:
- Shared values and lifestyle: Matches are based on mutual interests, routines, and personalities.
- Gradual introductions: People spend time together, including overnight stays, before making any decisions.
- Choice and control: No one is placed. Every arrangement is mutual, and everyone has a say.
Shared Lives is increasingly appealing to people looking for more meaningful work, greater flexibility, and a way to make a difference. And it works:
- 90% of Shared Lives carers stay in their role year-on-year
- 96% of services are rated good or outstanding
- It is consistently highlighted as one of the UK’s safest, most highly rated forms of regulated adult social care
If you’re interested in getting involved in Shared Lives, contact 0151 443 2060 or email knowsleysharedlives@knowsley.gov.uk or find out more on the council’s website.