This Shared Lives Week (23 – 27 June) the team from Knowsley’s Shared Lives Service is asking ‘Could you share your home to change someone’s life?’
Knowsley’s Shared Lives Service recruits carers to provide home-based care for adults who have long-term support needs – but want to live in the community.
There are lots of ways people can get involved with the Shared Lives scheme. They can offer a permanent home to someone, or short break support to give permanent carers a break. Recruits 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.
Where can I find out more?
During Shared Lives Week the team will be holding roadshows across Knowsley when you can chat to the team and find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer. They will be at:
Kirkby Town Centre (near the tree on Newtown Gardens), Tuesday, 24 June, 10am – 2pm.
Huyton Village, (near Iceland and the bus station), Thursday, 26 June, 10am – 2pm.
Prescot – (the corner of Leyland Street and Eccleston Street): Friday 27 June, 10am – 2pm.
Knowsley’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care Cllr Del Arnall said: “For many adults placed with carers, this will be their first experience of being part of a loving family and having the independence to live a fulfilling life in their local community.
“Becoming a Shared Lives carer is incredibly rewarding as you know you are making a difference to the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents. I’d encourage anyone who is interested to get in touch, and we will support you every step of the way.”
If you’re interested in getting involved in Shared Lives, contact 0151 443 2060. Find out more.
The Shared Lives Service is part of Knowsley Council’s Adult Provider Services – the council’s in house provider of services for adults needing additional support.
More about Shared Lives Week
Shared Lives Plus, the UK membership charity for Shared Lives schemes and Shared Lives carers, is using Shared Lives week 2025 to tackle the myth that people supported through Shared Lives are strangers.
This year’s theme continues the successful #WeAreSharedLives campaign, highlighting how Shared Lives carers and the people they support form strong, lasting relationships, made possible through a careful and person-centred matching process.
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
Interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer?
Visit www.startyoursharedlife.today to learn more.