Become a Shared Lives carer

The application process

What the process involves

There are five stages in the Shared Lives application process. The whole process usually takes around three months, and you will have a dedicated coordinator to support you at every stage.

You do not need to be an expert or have experience before you start. The process is designed to help you learn more about the role, ask questions and decide whether Shared Lives caring is right for you.

Step 1: Initial enquiry and eligibility check

When you select Enquire, you begin Stage 1 of the process.

You will:

complete a short eligibility check
create an online account

This first stage only takes a few minutes.

After you submit your details, we will email you with information on how to book an information event.

Everyone attends an information event before moving on to the next stage.

Step 2: Assessment

After the information event, we will visit your home to check that it is safe and suitable.

We will also carry out:

reference checks
a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
right-to-work checks

Your coordinator will guide you through this stage and explain what’s involved.

Step 3: Training

You will receive full training to help you feel confident in the role. You do not need any prior knowledge before starting the training.

Initial training includes:

first aid
safeguarding
Mental Capacity Act
Oliver McGowan training (supporting people with learning disabilities and autism)
medication management
finance
Care Certificate

We also provide regular refresher training to help you keep your knowledge and skills up to date.