People in Salford encouraged to become a carer and change lives during Shared Lives Week 2025

Carers are being sought to help make a real difference to Salford adults’ lives during Shared Lives Week 2025 (23 to 27 June).

National Shared Lives Week shines a light on the incredible work of Shared Lives carers and the life-changing impact of the support they offer. It’s led by Shared Lives Plus.

Shared Lives is a way of providing support to people where carers are invited into people’s homes rather than being supported through other services (a bit like fostering, but for adults). 

The Shared Lives programme connects individuals needing support with families and caregivers who provide a home and care.

This service plays a crucial role in improving the lives of autistic adults, people with learning disabilities and dementia, offering them a safe and nurturing environment within the homes of skilled carers.

People using the service are supported to have maximum choice and control over their lives. 
The service actively encourages individuals to pursue their interests and engage in meaningful activities within their local communities.

Lead Member for Adult Social Care and Health Councillor John Merry said: “Many people haven’t heard of Shared Lives carers and we want to highlight all the great work they do and give them the recognition they deserve. It helps us prevent health and social care issues through providing the connection and relationship so people can get the care they need where they need it.

“We want to support and celebrate our Shared Lives carers every step of the way. We would like to encourage more people to become Shared Lives carers – Shared Lives Week is the perfect time to learn more. People, can be a carer on a number of levels from full time live in care, to respite care to sessional work.”

An occupational therapist has said about the service: “I thought it was truly heartwarming to learn there is a service that treats people as individuals with very different needs and wishes and that there is a group of professional carers who really respect that and are willing to help."

A drop-in session is being held for current carers, the people they support, and anyone interested in finding out more about the scheme, at Valley Community Centre, 7 to 9 Dorning Road, Swinton, M26 5UX on 26 June, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

The Salford Shared Lives Carers (SLC) service was recognised last year as an “exemplary care provider” in a Care Quality Commission inspection.

The good rating in all categories demonstrates the high level of care and support the dedicated team provides to individuals across the city.

Find out more on the council website about the Salford Shared Lives scheme and read carers experiences.