Recruitment drive for shared lives carers

A recruitment drive is underway for prospective shared lives carers who can offer a home and support to vulnerable adults in the city.

Carers signing up to Bristol Shared Lives Service provide care, support and accommodation to adults with learning difficulties, physical disabilities, mental health problems, older people and other vulnerable adults.

The service has been running successfully in the city since 2004 but is looking to expand to meet demand for new placements.

The service differs from managed care homes as the service user usually lives within the carer’s home. The types of service on offer include:

· Live in support within the carer’s own home
· Medium term live in support within a carer’s home with a planned move on to supported living
· Short break (respite) - care and support is provided on a planned or emergency basis within the carer’s home.
· Outreach - the carer provides care and support in the service user’s home
· Emergency placements - either long or short term

Carers that are taken on by the scheme will receive training, then the ongoing support of a Shared Lives Officer who will visit every six to eight weeks.

Cllr Dr Jon Rogers, Cabinet Member for Care and Health said: “Shared Lives is a very individualised form of care that brings tremendous results and is a highly valued service in the city. Providing a supportive home environment for vulnerable adults and assisting in individuals becoming more independent requires dedication and skill that can be very rewarding and enjoyable for both carers and service users.

“The excellent Shared Lives team are keen to hear from prospective carers and I’d urge anyone interested to find out more.”

Fran Glover became a Bristol Shared Lives carer in the summer of 2010 and now has 3 individuals who live with her on a long term basis. She said: “Being a Shared Lives carer is a very rewarding experience, knowing that you are making a real difference to the individuals’ lives. I am fortunate that we all get on so well with each other. I would recommend the service to anyone interested, I wish in fact that I had signed up years ago.”

If anyone is interested in finding out more on the service please contact 0117 903 1695, or write to Bristol Shared Lives Scheme, Lanercost R.A.C, Southmead, Bristol BS10 6HZ.