How to become a Shared Lives carer

Find out about the different schemes you can apply for to provide a home for vulnerable people and support them to live more fulfilled lives in our community.

Types of Shared Lives schemes

We need people in Croydon with one or more spare bedrooms to rent to vulnerable people and support them to live more fulfilled lives in our community. 

To apply, you'll need to complete the application form for the Shared Lives scheme.

How you can provide support

The Shared Lives scheme allows you to become a main carer or an additional carer to a vulnerable adult or family who is in need.

The needs of each individual is assessed by a care manager or care coordinator.

Main Carer

Supporting adults with learning disabilities, physical disabilities or mental health needs.

 Start now

 

Additional carer

If a main carer nominates you as part of their application, you will receive an email inviting you to fill out an application form. If you haven’t received this, please email sharedlivesteam@croydon.gov.uk.

You will support the main carer by:

  • providing personal care, such as washing and dressing
  • providing additional emotional support
  • giving money management advice
  • accompanying the person to extra medical and other appointments
  • you will help provide a consistent, quality service and care to the individual or family the main carer is providing for.

Types of care you can offer

You can apply to offer:

  • short term care
  • long term care
  • respite care

Benefits of becoming a carer

There are many benefits of becoming a carer:

  • it's positive and rewarding work
  • makes a difference to a vulnerable person's life in Croydon
  • it's flexible work to suit the person you're caring for and your commitments
  • you'll be self-employed as a care professional, with flexible working and a regular income
  • you'll also receive training and support from us

This is an established scheme with an Outstanding rating from the Care Quality Commission. 

Get support from our social care team

Our social care team can help people decide if they should move into a Shared Lives home.

If you're having trouble living independently, get in touch with us for advice and support.