Home carers wanted for ‘Shared Lives’ scheme in Brighton and Hove

Home carers are being recruited to offer a spare room and provide support for adults with social care needs in Brighton and Hove.

The scheme – known as Shared Lives – is run locally by Brighton and Hove City Council.

Elly Sargeant and Roy

The council said that it was “a life-changing job you can do in your own home”, adding: “Some carers do it full-time, others on a short breaks or sessional basis.

“Churchill Square Shopping Centre is supporting the Shared Lives scheme.

“The centre is helping to mark the national Shared Lives Week by playing host to an information stall on Wednesday 21 June from 10.30am to 3.30pm.

“Members of the Shared Lives team will on hand to talk to you about the scheme and what it can offer you, and answer your questions.”

Shared Lives used to be known as adult placement, with all kinds of people able to take part – couples, singles, people with children or without, home owners or tenants.

The council said: “The main things you need are a spare room and a desire to help people with extra needs to be as independent as possible in a homely environment.

“An approved carer can support up to three adults at a time.

“Full training and support are provided. You are paid based on the needs of each person you support. Being a Shared Lives carer can be a rewarding alternative to a ‘normal’ 9-5 job.”

Shared Lives carer Elly Sargeant has been supporting Roy, who has autism, for the past three years. The pair have taken part in a video to promote the scheme.

Elly said: “I wanted a job that I could do living at home, not going to an office every day. When you’ve got children that’s nice.

“I think Roy gets a lot out of it. We have a lot of fun. He likes to dance, he likes to garden. He enjoys the food here and we encourage him to be as independent as possible.

“I get a lot out of it. It’s the most rewarding thing ever. It’s not like a job – it’s just like having another member of the family who joins in with stuff.”

“If you’re thinking of becoming a Shared Lives carer, I’d say go for it! It’s wonderful. It’s a way of life.”

Roy said: “I have a very good time here. I do the garden and sometimes help out with housework.

“I read my books in the evening and watch TV and have a beer some nights. So it’s a very nice place to live.”

The council added: “If you’d like to know more about the council’s Shared Lives scheme, please call 01273 295550 for a friendly chat.”

For more information, email info.sharedlives@brighton-hove.gov.uk or visit www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/sharedlives.