Lives get better when they are shared.
For over 30 years, Kent Shared Lives has transformed lives across the county, supporting more than 150 wonderful carers who provide nurturing, family-style homes for adults with learning disabilities, autism, dementia, mental health conditions, and physical or sensory disabilities.
In this paid and rewarding role, Shared Lives carers offer either short-breaks or a full-time home, similar to fostering, but for people over the age of 18 who want to live as independently as possible. The goal is to create a nurturing, family-style environment that supports independence and personal growth.
Vanessa Childs, KCC Kent Shared Lives Registered Manager, said:
“Our mission is to match as many adults with carers who can provide a home-based, person-centred approach to their support and change as many lives as possible”.
Nicky Ray, KCC Kent Shared Lives Recruitment and Marketing Officer explains:
“Shared Lives is changing lives, and with more carers we could change many more.
“Carers come from all walks of life—retirees, families, working professionals—but they all share the desire to make a difference.
“It’s flexible, you work from home, offering a great work/life balance, you receive significant tax breaks and you’re never alone—we’re with you every step of the way.”
The strength of Shared Lives lies in its flexibility. Every arrangement is tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the Adult, creating a unique and empowering support system built on trust, respect, and shared living.
Deb Cheeseman is a Shared Lives carer for Duncan
One such success story is Deb Cheeseman from Faversham, who stepped up when Duncan’s supported living arrangement was closing, opening her home and providing him stability and a strong sense of belonging.
Deb made her application to support Duncan from her own home, and following Kent Shared Lives’ initial visit, it was clear this would be a fantastic outcome for all.
“Anyone with the right values and attitude can become a Shared Lives Carer. The matching process is crucial to ensure everyone is happy,” Deb explains. “Duncan has truly become part of our big family and is living his best life.”
When asked what Deb would say to anyone thinking about applying, she replied“just do it!”.
“Our carers often tell us that being a Shared Lives carer is one of the most rewarding things they have ever done”
Diane Morton, Cabinet Member for Adults Social care and Public Health, emphasized the impact of Shared Lives:
“I’m extremely proud of our Kent Shared Lives service which has an overall Good rating from the Care Quality Commission, with an Outstanding rating under the category Well-led.
“It is so important that the people we care for feel safe, happy and that they belong. The Kent Shared Lives service provides a vital real ‘family home’ alternative to supported living or residential care where people can develop lifetime relationships and family bonds to help them truly flourish.
“Our carers often tell us that being a Shared Lives carer is one of the most rewarding things they have ever done. If you have the energy and space in your life and home and would like to make a genuine difference to someone in need, we’d love to hear from you.
“I would encourage anyone who has a spare room and has considered caring as a career to get in touch and KCC will provide support every step of the way.
“My sincerest thanks go to all our existing Shared Lives carers for the wonderful and selfless work they continue to do in our communities”.
To find out more visit: The benefits of Shared Lives - Jobs & Careers - Kent County Council
To request an information pack, you can:
- register your interest online
- call us on 03000 41 24 00
- email us at sharedlives@kent.gov.uk.
