Shared Lives Doncaster

Shared Lives is where adults in need of support are welcomed into a registered carer's home, becoming part of their home and sharing their life. People are carefully matched based on shared interests to ensure the person receives the best support suited to them and their needs. This is an alternative to traditional care and can be flexible to suit the person and can include living with the carer full-time, day services or a combination of both.

Shared Lives Offer in Doncaster

We have teamed up with our Commissioned partner Avalon to deliver this pioneering alternative to traditional care here in Doncaster. Avalon are an award winning charity, with over 25 years’ experience delivering personalised care and support to over 700 customers each year. They are based across 9 localities – Doncaster, Harrogate, Northallerton, Scarborough, Skipton, Teesside, West Yorkshire, York and Botton Village – with all services rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission.

A person in need of care will be referred to Avalon via Social Care Teams in Doncaster, where Avalon and the Social Worker will work together to match and place a person that best suits their needs and interests. Avalon are also responsible for recruiting new Carers to increase and expand the offer in Doncaster. Avalon will closely monitor both the Carers and individuals in receipt of their care and report back to the Local Authority on a regular basis. Carers that are recruited are classed as self-employed and the role will be undertaken at their own property.

Who is eligible for Shared Lives?

Adults with a Mental Health need
Adults aged 16 or over transitioning from Childrens Services to Adult Social Care
Adults with a mild learning or physical disability
People who need help to manage their health needs
Adults with Dementia
Veterans
People discharged from Hospital care

Types of support

Day opportunities - the cared-for person will go to a trained carer's home for the day
Short breaks/respite - this offers the opportunity to stay with a family on a regular basis. This works very well for a number of individuals as they can go to a familiar setting, where they have an existing relationship, rather than institutional care
Long term support - support to an individual within a home, enabling them to become a member of the family. Support can include reassurance, a familiar setting, routine, their own space and the ability to build relationships with family members

What are the Benefits for the Carer?

Rewarding Role - Shared Lives carers play a vital role in supporting individuals to live fulfilling lives, often forming strong and lasting bonds.
Flexible Work-Life Balance - flexibility in the type of support provided bespoke to the individual allowing carers to tailor the role to their lifestyle. (e.g. long-term placement, short breaks, or day support)
Financial Benefits - Carers receive a regular fee for the support they provide, and may also be eligible for tax relief on qualifying amounts.
Ongoing Support and Training - Shared Lives schemes provide carers with ongoing support, training, and resources to help them in their role.

What are the Benefits for the person in receipt of care?

Personalized and Flexible Care - Individuals are matched with carers based on compatibility that meets their specific needs and preferences.
Increased Independence and Confidence - Individuals develop new skills, build confidence, and become more independent.
Improved Social Life and Community Engagement - Helps to build relationships with their carer, their family, and the wider community.
Better Wellbeing - Studies have shown that individuals in Shared Lives arrangements report improvements in both their physical and emotional health.
Cost-Effective - More affordable alternative to residential care, with potential cost savings for both the individual and the Local Authority.

How to become a Shared Lives Carer

If you are interested in becoming a Shared Lives Carer please contact Avalon directly either via email doncaster@avalongroup.org.uk or phone (01302) 739178, or alternatively visit their website for more information.

The Registered Manager at Avalon will be able to support you through all stages of the process and answer any questions you may have.