Become a Shared Lives carer

The carer application process

There are five stages in the Shared Lives carer 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 carer role, ask questions and decide whether becoming a Shared Lives carer is right for you.

Step 1: Initial enquiry and eligibility check

When you start your enquiry, 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 must attend 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
  • medication management
  • Mental Capacity Act training
  • Oliver McGowan training (supporting people with learning disabilities and autism)
  • finance
  • Care Certificate

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

Step 4: Approval

Once your assessment and training are complete, your application will be reviewed by the Shared Lives panel.

They will decide whether to approve you as a Shared Lives carer.

Step 5: Matching

If you are approved, we will work with you to find the right match.

We always aim to match people based on:

  • needs and support requirements
  • interests and hobbies
  • personality and lifestyle

Your coordinator will continue to support you and will visit regularly (around every 12 weeks) to see how things are going.

Ongoing support you’ll receive

Shared Lives carers receive ongoing support, including:

  • regular contact from your coordinator
  • social events
  • peer support
  • access to Shared Lives Plus, the UK membership charity for Shared Lives

These networks give you the chance to connect with other carers, share experiences and learn from one another.

Shared Lives Plus

Shared Lives Plus is the UK membership charity for Shared Lives.

You can find more information, including membership fees, on the Shared lives Plus website

Make an enquiry

If you’re interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, you can make an enquiry using our online form.

You’ll be asked a few questions and may need to create an account. This only takes a few minutes.

Begin your Shared Lives carer enquiry

Contact the Shared Lives team

If you have questions about the service or becoming a carer, contact the Shared Lives team.

Phone: 0115 977 2110
Email: sharedlives@nottscc.gov.uk