Could you support a vulnerable adult and look after them in your own home?
The Shared Lives scheme is looking for more people to become carers, providing adults who find it hard to live independently with a chance to receive support and also share aspects of their carer’s life with them.
The project helps adults with a range of needs, including learning disabilities and mental health issues, who will live in a spare room in their carer’s house.
Typically, a carer will involve the person in their family life, enjoying things like meals and social activities together.
Shared Lives is looking for people in Barking and Dagenham who may be interested in becoming carers, with anyone interested invited to attend a free information event later this month.
The scheme will be offered in the borough in partnership with Grace Eyre, a charity that supports people with learning difficulties.
Miranda Keast, the charity’s business and development director, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Barking and Dagenham and offer new, rewarding care opportunities to residents in the borough who can support people with extra needs to live fulfilling lives as part of their local communities.”
Cllr Maureen Worby, cabinet member for social care and health integration, added: “We’re a borough full of people who care about those around them and look out for each other, so this is a wonderful opportunity for someone who is interested in making a real difference to a vulnerable person’s life.
“We’re delighted to be working with Grace Eyre to offer the Shared Lives scheme in Barking and Dagenham, so that more people can gain the confidence and skills they need to live independently.”
Carers will receive full training and up to £600 per week, and will be vetted before being matched with a vulnerable adult.
The drop-in information event will take place at Barking Town Hall between 6.30pm and 8pm on Thursday, November 29.
If you are unable to attend but would like to find out more about the scheme, email sharedliveslondon@grace-eyre.org
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