The Royal Borough of Greenwich is encouraging more residents to discover Shared Lives, a warm and person-centred service that matches adults with care and support needs with approved carers, helping them to live more independently by becoming part of a carer’s life and community.
Shared Lives isn’t just about support, it’s about connection, belonging, and giving people the chance to live their life, their way. The council is calling on caring, compassionate local people to consider becoming Shared Lives carers. You don’t need a background in care, just a spare room, patience, kindness and the willingness to share your home and your life with someone who needs support.
Already rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission, Royal Greenwich Shared Lives offers a friendly, flexible alternative to traditional care, matching adults with trained carers who open their homes and share everyday life with them.
The service supports adults with a wide range of needs to live safely and confidently in a home setting, including people with learning disabilities, physical impairments, mental health conditions, dementia, or those recovering after hospital.
Depending on what someone needs, carers can offer:
- A long-term home
- Regular day support
- Short breaks or respite
- Help with daily living, personal care, hobbies, and community activities
As a Shared Lives carer, you would receive:
- A competitive allowance
- Council Tax exemption (conditions apply)
- Fully funded training and ongoing support
- The joy of making a genuine difference every day
We recently filmed a visit with Sandra, one of our Shared Lives carers, and Colin, who she supports. Their story highlights the strong bonds, laughter, and confidence that Shared Lives can build for both individuals. The video features Councillor Mariam Lolavar speaking to Sandra and Colin about how the service has transformed their lives.
Councillor Mariam Lolavar, Cabinet Member for Health, Adult Social Care and Borough of Sanctuary said:
“Shared Lives is one of the warmest forms of care you’ll ever come across. It’s about opening your home and opening your heart, offering friendship, stability and a sense of belonging.
“I’ve seen first-hand how life-changing these relationships are. Sandra and Colin’s story shows the power of matching the right people together, and the huge impact this service can have on someone’s confidence and wellbeing.
“I’d encourage anyone who has the time, patience and space to think about becoming a Shared Lives carer. You won’t just be helping someone else; it will enrich your life too.”
Councillor Anthony Okereke, Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich said:
“Shared Lives reflects the very best of who we are as a community in Greenwich – compassionate, inclusive and committed to supporting one another. This service gives adults with care needs the chance to live full, rich, independent lives in home surrounded by people who truly care about them.
“We are proud to offer Shared Lives and proud of the carers who make this incredible model of support possible. I hope more local people will come forward to join the scheme and help us open even more hearts and homes across the borough.”
Whether you’re looking for support for yourself or a loved one, or you’re interested in becoming a Shared Lives carer, we’re here to help you explore your options.