Shared Lives Week 2025

This Shared Lives Week (23-27 June 2025), Southampton City Council is asking residents if they could open their homes to someone who needs support

Shared Lives is a scheme run by Southampton City Council. Individuals and families provide care in their home for up to three people with disabilities, aged over 18. Shared Lives carers are carefully matched with the person they will care for.

Shared Lives carers can provide help with:

• Daily tasks such as dressing and meal preparation
• Learning new skills that could lead to the individuals working towards living independently
• Building new friendships and social networks
• Budgeting
• Medication administration (in some cases)
• Personal care (in some cases)

To become a Shared Lives carer, you must be over 18 years of age. You do not need specific qualifications. You only need the right values, commitment, and a spare bedroom. Training and a support network are provided to all Shared Lives carers.

Carole Roberts, Shared Lives Team Manager, said: “Shared Lives Week might only take place once a year, but our Shared Lives carers provide support throughout the year. I’d like to thank our carers for all they do and encourage residents to consider whether they could become carers too. If you can offer flexible but regular support, whether that be for a few hours a week during the day or short breaks or live-in arrangements, we'd love to hear from you. With more carers, we can offer more people in Southampton support to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.”

Shared Lives carers receive payment and benefit from the many perks of being self-employed. The theme for Shared Lives Week 2025 is #WeAreSharedLives.

Lisa has been a Shared Lives carer over the last three years. She said: “There is 100% support from the Shared Lives team, and our Designated Shared Lives Officer is amazing. 10 out of 10! She is there if I need any advice. It is so rewarding being a Shared Lives carer, as you see people grow in confidence. The people who I care for have become part of my family. I love being a Shared Lives carer and would encourage anyone who is thinking about becoming one to go for it.”

Councillor Marie Finn, Cabinet Member for Adults & Health at Southampton City Council, said: “I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of our Shared Lives carers for all they do. Thank you also to the Shared Lives team who ensure that our carers are supported each step of the way. I’d encourage people to visit our website to find out more. Shared Lives carers help people to live a happy and secure life.”

Find out more about Shared Lives.