Sharing Magazine Vol 38

Sharing

Vol 38 Aug 2022

Magazine for the shared living network

Page 3

Page 10

Page 15

Nominations for Your voice chair open now

Cost of living increases find a way through together

Set up an independent carer group

Nominate yourself by Friday 2 September

How to work with your scheme and local authority

"Talking with others has really helped us all."

Richard and Josh from West Sussex enjoying cocktails on holiday in Spain, featured in our Shared Lives week media coverage

www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk

0151 227 3499

Sharing magazine - May 2022

Content2

Welcome

1

Introducing Rebecca Day

2

Your voice chair nominations open!

3

Book your workshops at UK conference 2022

4

Our work for you

9

Cost of living

10

Universal Credit

12

Carer's Allowance

13

Champion's corner

14

Start a carer support group

15

Celebrating the best of Shared Lives week 2022

18

Why we love Shared Lives

20

A new Ambassador for Wales

21

Welcome

Contents

Welcome

Who are householders?

Ewan King Shared Lives Plus Often older people Chief or people who need Executive informal support to continue living in their own home.

Firstly hello!

They may have support needs or may have become isolated anxiousyou about I’m looking forward toor meeting at our living alone.

UK conference and Your Voice meetings in the Autumn. I’m really excited about joining A person that enjoys passing on their skills as chief executive as I’ve known about the and experience to enrich the lives of those enormous impactwith Shared Lives Plus and that Homeshare them. members have had for several years. From my previous role at the Social Care Institute for Excellence, I remember with fondness developing a video about a young man, Kurtis, who told us how much he loved his Shared Make match to deeply enable an Livesacarers - it was inspiring.

older person to live longer at Despite homethe severe challenges facing our social care sector and the cost of living crisis, I am Each Homeshare match is bespoke and optimistic about the future Shared agreed on a case-by-case basis. of Your localLives, as well as Homeshare UK and a Family

by Family.

Homeshare provider can make unique Building on the so far, there match between the success person you’ve got are great in mind, and a homesharer whomore has the opportunities ahead to help people know rightabout interests and skills to support them.

Shared Lives and strengthen your arm as Shared Lives carers. Read about the work Once a match made, you will have carers and is our amazing team are already peace of mind that the person you’re doing to raise awareness of your work supporting has the best support possible through setting carer groups up on page 15. for them as an individual.

We’ve got a fantastic line up at our conference “It’s given me a new in October, including the Minister for Care and Mental Health Gillian There are over perspective onKeegan! life and 10 workshops specifically for carers, as well even I hatefortoeveryone at as thethough legendary celebration the at this Takea a look admit it years I doawards! need bitand book your place, page 4. of extra help round the house – I’m not getting I know my colleagues have been hearing from schemes and Shared Lives carers about the any younger!” impact of rising bills, especially with more Householder - London

Who are homesharers?

to come in the next few months, and you can read about how we’re finding a way through it together on page 10.

Typically, younger people – creating an intergenerational match.

In the last six months, our team have established new relationships in the Professional students looking for an Department of Work andorPensions (DWP) alternative to halls student housing. and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) enabled them tocannot clarify Keywhich publichave service workers who financial directly affect your affordpolicies housingthat where they work. income and raise awareness of Shared Lives A person that is read happy toguidance give their on time nationally.

You can our to support the needs of older people.

Carers’ Allowance (page 13) and Universal Credit on page 12 to make sure you’re getting all the income you’re able to. Don’t forget our benefits helplines are available – see back cover for details.

I also loved seeing how members celebrated Shared Lives week – if you need a pick me up – this is the one, page 18, and don’t miss another incredible Key facts:story of Jonathon, Anne and Lawrence, from Derry!

No personal care is involved, only practical support and To end with a bit about me.

I grew up in companionship is provided.

Edinburgh, but have lived in England since I was 17. I All also spent some time in school Homeshare participants are in vetted, and matches are based America. I have three young children – Noah, on interests, hobbies.

Ben and Bella, who arelifestyle a bit ofand a handful but The Homeshare is supported and are still pretty cute! I am bit of a fan of Korean carefully monitored by a local Dramas – otherwise known as K-dramas – Homeshare organisation. which you can watch on Netflix. They have lovely stories and are often beautifully filmed!

Homesharing is not a rental service, so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

I hope to meet many of you soon. If you The householder and homesharer need anything, please gettointheir touch with both pay a fee local membership@sharedlivesplus.org.uk Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their ongoing service and monitoring support. The Enjoy Sharing and I hope see you soon, homesharer will to contribute to the householder towards utility bills.

Ewan Chief Executive, Shared Lives Plus 1

Rebecca Day Membership and engagement officer

Introducing Rebecca Day

Hi there,

2

My name is Rebecca Day, and I’ll be working with the membership team with our lovely carer champions, Helen and Steve, who are on our helpline taking your calls about anything to do with Shared Lives. We’ll be making sure you have high quality advice either from us, or our partners, and gathering groups of carers to support each other – as you so often do.

You can read more about that on the next page.

I’ve wanted to work for Shared Lives Plus for ages, I know a couple of people who’ve worked here in the past, and they told me what a great organisation it is. After uni I started working for a charity based in London working with disabled young people and supporting their families. Fast forward a few years, and I’ve had experience working in safeguarding within the local authority and with a number of national charities as a coordinator, trainer and mediator, so I’m looking forward to bringing some of that to support you too.

At home, I’m a mum of a boy and a girl and they are the shining achievement of my life. We’ve recently moved into the sticks, after 10 years in central Manchester, though neither my husband or I are originally from the rainy city. Until I bought my own house, I had never stayed anywhere for more than two years. So when people ask me where my accent is from, there is no good answer. We’ve got a one year old Golden retriever, and she came all the way from South Wales where we have family, her name is ‘Aur’, which is Welsh for ‘gold’ and almost impossible to say if you’re English!

I love a good bit of hard graft in the garden and I was born in the Lake district, so I try and get up there to swim in Windemere as often as possible.

If I was going on Mastermind, my subject would be 90’s supermodels and who they were dating. I love to laugh, especially at my own jokes.

My most annoying attribute would be playing devil’s advocate. At work, I think this is really important, we often stand by our first impressions and I think we often need to look at things from another perspective.

I’m really delighted to be here to help you all have the best experience of membership that I can.

If you’d like to contact the carer support team, email membership@ sharedlivesplus.org.uk or ring 0151 227 3499 and Lisa or Jackie will arrange a call back.

Your voice chair nominations open!

SECTION TITLE

Nominate yourself to chair Your voice Who are forum and become a trustee. The householders? deadline is Friday 2 September.

forum meetingsWho to liaise with carers, are give and receive feedback, and work homesharers? with the Shared Lives Plus team to set the agenda and topics for future meetings.

We have held our new Your voice forums three times this year, to Often older people or people who need Typically, younger people – creating offer an opportunity for Shared The chair of the forum will also sit informal support to continue living in their an intergenerational match.

Lives carers to meet with our senior on the Shared Lives Plus Board of own home. management team. The forums are Professional Trustees students to ensurelooking the carer forvoice an listening communities where we can is heard across the organisation, They may have support needs or may alternative to halls or student housing. listenor toanxious your priorities, including at Board level. Trustees have become isolated about and to talk about the work we’ve been doing.

You required attend four living alone.

Key are public servicetoworkers whoShared cannot housing wheremeetings they work. can find the latest minutes in your afford Lives Plus board a year, A person that enjoys passing on theirnewsletters skills members’ account, and and provide some support to the and experience to enrich the lives of those A person is happy tobased give their time highlights of the main areas of work widerthat organisation, on their that Homeshare in with them. to support the needs of older people.

Sharing magazine. experience and knowledge. Check the website for more information www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk/ about the role. your-voice-forums/

The voluntary role has two aspects, Make a matchchairing to enable an the forum and becoming a older person totrustee live for longer the charity. All expenses are re-imbursed. at home Each Homeshare match is bespoke andmanage the As chair you will agreed on a case-by-case basis.

Your local meetings so they run smoothly Homeshare providerand can to make a unique time; ensuring all carer match between the person you’ve got voices are heard and everyone in mind, and a homesharer who has the has an opportunity to give their right interests and skills to support them. opinion. You will need to be a good listener with good organisational Once a match is made, you will have skills.

Youryou’re Voice runs online so that peace of mind that the person carers frompossible around the UK can attend. supporting has the best support for them as an individual.

We will provide support for the new chair, including providing external training. Richard Jones, who chairs the Shared Lives Plus Board of Trustees, will also co-chair the Your Voice forum for the first year, for support and guidance.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and even though I hate to admit it I do need a bit Theround forum meets every three of extra help the for two hours and you house – I’m months, not getting will need to be available for some planning time before each forum any younger!”

Search keywords: 'becoming a trustee', 'Your Voice chair elections'

Key facts:

Nominate yourself:

No personal care is involved, Fill out your name and a short only practical support and statement on why you want companionship is provided. the role on the website by Friday 2participants September.are All Homeshare vetted, and matches are based on interests, and hobbies.

Meetlifestyle with a trustee to find out The Homeshare is supported andof the more about that element carefullyrole monitored by a local in September.

Homeshare organisation.

Talk with other carers at Homesharing is not a rental service, the Your Voice meeting on so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

Thursday 9 November.

The householder and homesharer Voting 10local November and both pay a fee opens to their closes on Friday 16 Homeshare organisation to December. cover the costs of their ongoing service The newsupport. chair willThe start and and monitoring homesharer will the contribute the on shadow currentto chair householder towards utility bills.

Thursday 26 January.

and some de-briefing afterwards.

You may also be needed between Householder - London

3

Take a look through the following pages for workshops especially for you. It’s online again with events in the mornings and afternoons so you can drop in when you can.

To reserve your place, simply go to: www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk/conference-2022/ and choose from the selection of workshops below. You might not get your first choice if they are over-subscribed, we will do our best, but please book early!

Book your place to meet with Shared Lives carers, schemes and social care leaders.

How to book: Book online at: www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk/ conference-2022/ We have kept the costs to attend as low as we possibly could again this year. You can reserve your place for just £5.00 – don’t miss this annual opportunity to connect with other carers, get practical support on a range of topics.

Conference programme: two days timeline

Book your workshops at UK conference 2022 4

We’re excited that there's a brilliant line up of speakers and over 15 workshops for Shared Lives carers at our UK conference this year.

UK conference 2022

Day 1 - Wednesday 12th October 2022 09.15 - Conference Who opens are

householders?

09.30 - Networking groups:

A chance to meet other Shared Lives carers from across the UK in an informal coffee and chat session run by our carer champions, Often older people or people who need Helen and Steve. informal support to continue living in their own home.

10.00 - Keynote speeches They may have support needs or may Welcome and isolated introduction: Richard Jones, have become or anxious about chair of trustees and Ewan King, our new living alone. chief executive A person that enjoys passing on their skills and experience to enrich the lives of those Interactive discussion: that Homeshare with them.

People with experience of Shared Lives care, Homeshare and Family by Family Gillian Keegan MP, Minister for Care Mental Health.

Makeand a match to enable an

older person to live longer Please submit your questions in advance at to home membership@sharedlivesplus.org.uk Each Homeshare match is bespoke and 11.15 - Break agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare provider can make a unique 11.30 - Roundtable discussion: match between the person you’ve got in mind, and a homesharer who has the Josh MacAlister, chair of the Independent right interests and skills to support them.

Review of Children’s Services Once a Alex match is made, you will have Smith, chief executive, peace of mind that the person you’re The Cares Family supporting has the best support possible for them as an individual.

Day 2 - Thursday 13th October 2022

“It’s given megroups: a new 09.30 - Networking perspective on life and A chance to meet other Shared Lives carers from across the UK I inhate an informal even though to coffee and chat session run by our carer champions, admit it I do need a bit Helen and Steve. of extra help round the 10.00 - Workshop session 2 (choice of 2A-2L) house – I’m not getting 11.00 - Break any younger!”

11.15 - Workshop Householder - Londonsession 3 (choice of 3A-3L)

Who ofare Alison McDowell, Director Adult Social Services, Newcastle City Council homesharers?

Shared Lives Plus Ambassadors Chaired by Ewan King, CEO Shared Lives Plus Typically, younger people – creating Panellists will reflect on what they heard in an intergenerational match. the keynote speeches and discuss the current challenges and opportunities for growing Professional students looking for an alternative to halls orand student housing.

Shared Lives, Homeshare Family by Family in coming years.

Key public service workers who cannot housing where they work.

12.30afford - Lunch that is happy to give their time 13.30A- person Mindfulness to support the needs of older people.

We are offering two lunchtime mindfulness sessions to provide a space to pause and reset mind, body and breath. The sessions are suitable for everyone, including seasoned meditators and complete beginners.

14.00 - Workshop session 1 (choice of 1A – 1M)

15.00 -Key Breakfacts: No personal careAnnual is involved, 15.15 - Shared Lives Plus General

only practical support and Meeting, including an update on Shared Lives companionship is provided.

Plus activity All Homeshare participants are

16.00 - Close vetted, and matches are based

on interests, lifestyle and hobbies.

The Homeshare is supported and carefully monitored by a local Homeshare organisation.

12.15 - Lunch Homesharing is not a rental service, so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

13.30 - Mindfulness

The householder and homesharer

both pay a fee to2022! their local 14.00 - Awards Ceremony

Homeshare organisation to cover costs of their service Come andthe celebrate the bestongoing of Shared Lives, and monitoring support.

The Homeshare and Family by Family from homesharer will contribute to the around the UK. It’s an uplifting celebration of householder towards utility bills. everything you do throughout the year – get your hankies and heart emojis ready!

15.30 - Close 5

Your workshop choices Here's a selection of the workshops designed especially for Shared Lives carers. If you’d like to see the full list of workshops, go on to our webiste Search keywords: 'conference 2022' There are three workshop sessions at different times. When you book online, choose your workshop for each timeslot 1, 2, 3, or the one you really want to attend!

Workshop 1 Wednesday 12 October, at 2:00 - 3:00pm Workshop 2 Thursday 13 October, at 10:00 - 11:00 am Workshop 3 Thursday 13 October, at 11:15 - 12.15 am

Workshop 1 - Wednesday 12 October At 2:00 - 3:00pm 1A and 3A > Public Liability insurance Our partners, Towergate insurance will explain what public liability insurance is, who uses it in general and why Shared Lives carers need it, they will also talk about the differences between Public Liability insurance and household insurance.

Christine will outline the new landlord insurance offer and you can ask specific questions during the session.

1F > Supporting health in Shared Lives This workshop is designed for Shared Lives schemes and Shared Lives carers to think about how they can best support people living in Shared Lives arrangements to access health resources, and to make lifestyle choices that promote wellbeing.

In the workshop we will be discussing: People’s rights when it comes to health, including sexual health Choice of healthcare and provider Disability and health discrimination How to support a happy and healthy lifestyle in Shared Lives, including eating for wellbeing, and looking after body and mind.

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1G > Finances in Shared Lives - issues facing carers and schemes - decision making and financial recording This workshop is about managing money, especially how to support people in Shared Lives with their their benefits and everyday finances for Shared Lives carers / Appointeeships – the different types and their pros and cons. It will also cover financial abuse – how to spot it and take steps to prevent it.

1I > Wellbeing Hour An interactive workshop focusing on a holistic approach to health & wellbeing exploring: Part 1 Understanding wellbeing. We will open our wellbeing workshop by talking about understanding wellbeing and everyday barriers to having a good sense of wellbeing, we will look at how looking after our mind and body can improve quality of life.

Part 2 Let Your Breath Flow - Breathing Exercises that improve health and wellbeing Part 3 Gentle Seated Yoga Class

UK conference 2022

1J > Human Rights for Shared Lives carers Who are and the people they support

1L > Homeshare Drop-In

During this workshop, the British Institute of Human Rights will share knowledge of how human rights apply every day here in the UK.older The workshop support Often people or will people who you needwith information abouttoyour rightsliving and the rights informal support continue in their own home. of people you care about when accessing or working with public services. The workshop They may have needs or may It will will use real life support stories and examples. have become isolated or anxious about be interactive and once delegates have booked living alone. on there will be a chance to put forward your questions for discussion on the day.

A person that enjoys passing on their skills and experience to enrich the lives of those that Homeshare with them.

who wants to ask a question about Homeshare or meet other members of the Homeshare network.

householders?

Who are homesharers?

An informal drop-in session for anyone

Typically, younger people – creating 1M > an Meet our new chief executive intergenerational match. Ewan King Professional students looking for an alternative to halls or student housing.

An informal session where Ewan will share with you his vision for Shared Lives. The Key will public service workers who cannot session also feature a discussion about afford housing where they work. your views of Shared Lives Plus, what our priorities should be and how we can most A person that is happy to give their time effectively support represent interests to support the and needs of olderthe people. of our members.

Workshop 2 - Thursday 13 October At 10:00 - 11:00 am

Make a match to enable an 2D > Family

by Family loss to hope older person to live– from longer at home An exploration through family stories of the impact of loss onisfamily life,and and how Each Homeshare match bespoke strengths based approaches can harness agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local hope instead.

Homeshare provider can make a unique match between the person you’ve got in mind, and a homesharer 2F > Dementia Friends who has the right interests and skills to support them.

Alzheimer’s Society wants everyone Once a match made, you will confident have living with is dementia to feel and peace of mind that the person you’re empowered to do things that they have always supporting has the best support possible been able to do, such as buy their groceries for them as an individual. or get on the bus. The workshop will explain more about what dementia is and what living with the condition is like and about small ways we can all help make the world a better place for people with dementia.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and even though I hate to 2I > Supporting parents with learning disabilities Shared Lives a bit admit it Iindo need ofLearn extra help round the about how and why parents with learning– disabilities are getting supported in house I’m not Shared Lives. We will explore the differences any younger!” between substituted parenting and supported parenting, and look at available resources to Householder - London support parents and schemes.

2J > Medicine optimisation This session will be a presentation and Q and A session covering:

Key facts:

The Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOE) that CQC No personal care is involved, use to look at how providers ensure the only practical support and proper and safe use of medicines companionship is provided.

How to access the CQC medicines All Homeshare participants resources for providers that are are vetted, and matches are based currently available on interests, lifestyle and hobbies.

The Homeshare is supported and How to contact the Medicines carefully monitored Optimisation Team at CQCby a local Homeshare organisation.

2K > Carer networking Homesharing is not a rental service, so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

This is a chance to meet the Shared Lives carer champions and other carers from The householder and homesharer across theboth UK. pay Whya not us from fee join to their localthe comfort ofHomeshare your own home and meet organisation to our cover friendly team and chat withongoing other Shared the costs of their service andEverybody monitoringissupport.

The Lives carers. welcome and we homesharer willfull contribute to the hope this session will be of friendly faces householder towards utility bills. with the chance to discuss current issues and get support and advice.

More workshops on the next page 7

Workshop 3 - Thursday 13 October At 11.15 - 12.15am 3C > Shared Lives carers and tax Intellect Tax advisors Find out: Shared lives carers' responsibilities for registering with HMRC for tax and national insurance purposes How Qualifying Care Relief works and its eligibility criteria How to contract and pay Shared Lives carers so that their self-employed status and their eligibility to claim Qualifying Care Relief are maintained Filling in your Tax return 3G > Independent carer groups - let's connect Independent Shared Lives carer support groups in each scheme can be invaluable in resolving issues and improving services.

In this workshop we will talk about how being part of a support group has helped carers speak collectively through elected representatives or spokespeople. In this way individuals can draw attention to particular issues without feeling vulnerable or exposed.

We will put you in touch with your local independent carer group or give you the tools to start your own, read more on page 15.

3H > A trauma-informed approach Trauma disproportionately impacts people who have health and social care needs. It is important for someone who has experienced trauma to get appropriate support to help

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them move on and feel safe. We will explore how Shared Lives schemes and carers can support people by using the five principles of trauma informed care.

3I > Fire safety in the home A Fire Safety in the Home Workshop specifically aimed at carers 3K > Working with Ambassadors, people with experience of Shared Lives, Homeshare and Family by Family to raise awareness Raising the voice of people with experience of Shared Lives, Homeshare and Family

by Family is central to our approach to raise awareness and create systems which prioritises people drawing on support.

The workshop will cover: Benefits of involving Ambassadors Working with Ambassadors as colleagues How to support Ambassadors to take part, including; speaking opportunities, feedback on working practices/products, media relations, panels, and pay, fees and contracts 3L > Supported Loving – Sex and Relationships Main barrier and Facilitators Brief law discussion Useful links and resources

SECTION Our workTITLE for you

Shared Lives carer member support Shared Lives carer membership has continued to rise this quarter and we Who are Who are would like to welcome our 236 new joiners, we hope you enjoy your magazine.

householders?

homesharers?

We have a carer support team here to provide you with support and advice.

So don’t hesitate to give us a call, even if you just fancy a chat or to let off some steam. We love to hear from you. Steve and Helen our Shared Lives Often older people or champions people whoare need Typically, younger people – creating carer both Shared Lives carers themselves, so they know informal supportonly to continue living in their an intergenerational match. too well the challenges you face. own home.

Professional students looking for an Over the last few months we have taken over 200 calls and provided advice They may have support needson oramay and support wide range of issues alternative including: to halls or student housing. have become isolated or anxious about living alone.

Key public service workers who cannot afford housing where they work.

A person that enjoys passing on their skills and experience to enrich the lives of those A person that is happy to give their time Scheme that Homeshare with them. to support the mediation needs of older people.

Respite Carer groups

Tax an Make a match to enable

Our work for you

older person to live longer at home

Guidance

Support Insurance

Legal support

Allegations

Each Homeshare match is bespoke and Blue Light Key cards facts: agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare provider can make a unique No personal care is involved, match between the person you’ve got only practical support and in mind, and a homesharer who has the companionship is provided.

Theto biggest concern right interests and skills support them. for you all is, of course, the rising cost of living and the impact on Shared Lives households. We talk about this on page 10 and do All Homeshare participants are visit outwill webpages Once a match is made, you have for information on this subject. vetted, and matches are based peace of mind that the person you’re Searchpossible keywords: 'cost of living' on interests, lifestyle and hobbies. supporting has the best support The Homeshare is supported and for them as an individual.

We have had six situations where the carer and scheme relationship were carefully monitored by a local in crisis and close to breakdown and with our careful intervention Homeshare organisation.and mediation, we were able to ensure that the issues were resolved, and the arrangement saved. Always get in touch if you think there is isnot anything weservice, can Homesharing a rental do to help where conflicts occur and remember no problem is toopay small. so athat homesharer doesn’t rent.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and The householder and homesharer even thoughShopping I hatediscounts to both pay a fee to their local admit it I doYour need a bit Homeshare organisation to cover membership offers much more than the the costs of their ongoing service of extra help round the helpline – there are shopping discounts where you and monitoring support. The can save on your weekly shopping as well as one-off homesharer will contribute to the house – I’m purchases, not getting so don’t forget to check your membership householder towards utility bills. account on our website to access the codes. Log on any younger!”

%

www.sharedlivesplus.org.uk and click on the yellow Householder - London log in button at the top of the page.

9

We have heard from many Shared Lives carer members who are worried about rising costs across the country. We have also been hearing from Shared Lives schemes who are concerned about how the rising cost of living will impact their Shared Lives carers.

Shared Lives Plus has had both general enquiries about weekly contributions, and more specific questions around the cost-of-living grant that many people supported by Shared Lives will receive.

Some carers have asked us why the government is giving out one-off grants to people receiving benefits. It appears that the government has decided not to increase benefits in line with inflation. Instead, they have introduced this oneoff lump sum to ease the current crisis without increasing benefits in the long term. The total grant is £650 paid in two lump sums, one in July and another in the autumn. It will be paid to those receiving low-income benefits or tax credits, including many people supported in Shared Lives.

Cost of living

Can the one-off grant be shared?

10

It is understandable that Shared Lives carers, who are struggling with increased costs, have asked us if all or a part of this payment could be passed on to them. The Shared Lives carers we have spoken to felt that this would contribute to the shared cost of running a household and increased cost of living for those they support.

Shared Lives Plus would always advise against Shared Lives carers making private financial arrangements with the people they support. For example, this is also what we advise Shared Lives carers regarding the one-off winter fuel payment.

To ask the person you support directly for a contribution would leave you open to an accusation of financial abuse and a potential safeguarding enquiry. We have taken legal advice on this issue, and our legal advisors have explained that “if the [Shared Lives] carer requests that the money be transferred to them, it could appear that they are taking advantage of the [supported person].”

Cost of living

Who are What are the other options? householders?

Who are homesharers?

In theory, Shared Lives carers should receive three different payments, which we call the “citizen’s model” of payment. You can find more out about the payment model in the money section of the guidance – ‘Funding Shared Often older people or people who need Typically, younger people – creating Lives arrangements’ (log in to the membership area and go the guidance informal support to continue living in their an intergenerational match. section). The three payments are: own home.

Professional students looking for an A food and utilities payment (also known as and lodgings), which They may have support needs or may alternative to board halls or student housing. a person’s Universal Credit (UC) or Employment Support have become isolated or comes anxiousfrom about Allowance (ESA) or private finances if they self-fund living alone.

Key public service workers who cannot afford housing where they work.

Room rent, which is usually paid for by housing benefit or Local Housing A person that enjoys passing on their skills Allowance (LHA), or if the person living in Shared Lives is ineligible, and experience to enrich the lives of those A person that is happy to give their time they will need to pay this themselves that Homeshare with them. to support the needs of older people.

A payment for care and support which is paid from the local authority, health authority, a personal budget, or someone self-funding Shared Lives Plus is encouraging schemes and local authorities, where to secure an increased weekly contribution towards food and Make a match topossible enable an utilities from the person being supported. The two grant payments older person to live longer totalling £650 should be paid into the bank account where the person being at home supported receives their UC or ESA. This should mean that the overall benefits they receive for the year will increase by £650. On this basis, it may Each Homeshare match be is bespoke possibleand for the Shared Lives scheme ask whoever sets the weekly rate Keytofacts: agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local for food and utilities to raise this, reflecting the supported person’s overall Homeshare provider can make a unique No personal care is involved, increased benefits income. This would effectively distribute the £650 over match between the person you’ve got only practical support and 52 weeks. in mind, and a homesharer who has the companionship is provided. right interests and skills to support them.

This may not be an option for everyone and would have to be looked at on a All Homeshare participants are case-by-case Once a match is made, you will have basis. For example, some schemes are contractually obliged vetted, and matches are based peace of mind that the person you’re to pre-determined rates of food and utilities over a set a period. In addition, on interests, lifestyle and hobbies. supporting has the best support possible it may be inappropriate to raise the weekly set rate where the supported The Homeshare is supported and for them as an individual. person already receives lower amounts carefully of benefits, for example monitored by a where local the person is under 25 years old.

Homeshare organisation.

“It’s given meBeyond a new the grant, Shared Lives schemesHomesharing have also talked about is nottoaus rental service, so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent. wanting to support Shared Lives carers to respond to the cost of living perspective on life and by securing uplifts to care and support payments. Shared Lives Plus householder and this homesharer even though Ihas hate toheard from several schemesThe already who have achieved and is both pay a fee to their local supporting many schemes who are attempting to secure uplifts. You can admit it I do need a bit Homeshare organisation to cover read more about this on our news pages on our website. the costs of their ongoing service of extra help round the and monitoring support. The As we go to print, we have also updated our website with some cost-of-living homesharer will contribute to the house – I’m not getting advice for Shared Lives carers and this ishouseholder where you will also find a full list of towards utility bills. any younger!”the qualifying benefits, as well as more information about how they are paid.

Please do ring our carer support team who understand the pressures you Householder - London face and can signpost you to our partners, depending on what you want.

11

Universal Credit in Shared Lives arrangements The Universal Credit benefits system was first introduced in the UK in 2014 but has only recently been rolled out across the four nations.

We are hearing from an increasing number of Shared Lives carers and schemes about the challenges they are facing with Universal Credit.

This includes whether Shared Lives carers are eligible to claim it, and whether people supported should claim Housing Benefit or the housing component of Universal Credit.

Universal Credit

Shared Lives carers

12

In theory, anyone can claim Universal Credit, including people who are supported by Shared Lives, and Shared Lives carers. However, whether a person will receive any benefit payments will depend on their circumstances, as assessed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Shared Lives carers can claim Universal Credit but are only likely to receive any money if they earn below a certain level.

As a Shared Lives carer, when applying for Universal Credit, you should declare all aspects of your income. This includes care and support payments, food and utility contributions, and housing contributions made by the person you support. You should make clear that the care and support payments are counted as income, and separate to housing, food, and utilities which are not considered as income by the DWP. For more information see

our “Universal Credit” guidance available in your members account on our website.

Universal Credit or Housing Benefit?

There has been some confusion as to whether people supported

by Shared Lives should claim the housing element of Universal Credit, or Housing Benefit. This uncertainty has come about because although most new claims for benefits should be for Universal Credit, DWP guidelines make exceptions for those living in “exempt” or “specified” accommodation, meaning that they can claim Housing Benefit instead.

From looking at existing case law in Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Shared Lives Plus believes it is highly unlikely that Shared Lives households would be considered exempt or specified accommodation, and so all new claims for help with housing costs in Shared Lives should be made to Universal Credit, not Housing Benefit.

Shared Lives Plus carer members can find out more about this by reading our guidance document on the members area of our website. For a specific query about Universal Credit, Shared Lives carer members can call the specialist advisers Jackson Lees on 0151 601 9935. This includes how to apply and how to navigate changes in financial or housing circumstances.

Introducing Rebecca Day

Who are Who are Formal response from householders? homesharers? government secured

Carer's Allowance

Recently we have Often older people or people who secured need a formal from Department informal supportresponse to continue living in their of Work own home. and Pensions (DWP) to answer your questions about Carer’s Allowance.

They may have support needs or may have become isolated or anxious aboutmeeting with At a Cuppa for Carers living alone. our tax advisors Intellect, Shared Lives carers told us that that it was A person that enjoys passing on their skills a priority to establish whether they and experience to enrich the lives of those apply for and be eligible to that Homeshare could with them. receive Carer’s Allowance. In the past few months, Shared Lives Plus has been working with Intellect as well as our other partners, such as Jackson Lees Welfare Benefits Make a matchAdvisors, to enable an the Low-Income Tax older person toReform live Group, longer Jobcentre Plus and revenuebenefits.org to try and find at home out where Shared Lives carers Each Homeshare match is bespoke and stand on Carer’s Allowance. agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare providerRecently, can makewe a unique met with the policy match between the person you’ve got leads for Carer’s Allowance at the in mind, and a homesharer who has the Department of Work and Pensions right interests and skills to support them.

(DWP) to find out once and for all whether Shared Lives carers Once a match is made, you will have canperson claim Carer’s peace of mind that the you’re Allowance.

Carer’s Allowance supporting has the best support possibleis a benefit for people who are giving regular and for them as an individual. substantial care to disabled people in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It is most often given to people who provide unpaid care, such as those who look after close relatives.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and even though I hate to admit it I doAsneed a bitwith Shared Lives well as working carers, our tax the advisors Intellect of extra help round work with foster carers, which has house – I’m been notthegetting source of some confusion.

Carer’s Allowance regulations state any younger!” that foster carer’s incomes are not counted as earnings regarding this Householder - London

benefit, meaning that–they can Typically, younger people creating claim Carer’s Allowance. an intergenerational match. Based on this knowledge, Intellect advised Professional students looking for apply an some carers that they could alternative to halls or student housing. for Carer’s Allowance and deduct the threshold figure for Qualifying Care Key public service workers who cannot Relief (QCR) from their earnings. In afford housing where they work. practice this would reduce the carer’s earnings to the point that they could A person that is happy to give their time be awarded money. to support the needs of older people.

However, the policy leads at the DWP have confirmed that HMRCs Qualifying Care Relief regulations should not be read across to benefits such as Carer’s Allowance. Shared Lives carers are not explicitly mentioned in the Carer’s Allowance regulations. The policy leads at the DWP told us that that whilst Shared Key facts: Lives carers can apply for Carer’s Allowance, it is unlikely they would No personal care is involved, beonly eligible.

Thissupport is because practical andincome from being a Shared Lives Carer companionship is provided. is treated as earnings for Carer’s All Homeshare participants are Allowance purposes. vetted, and matches are based on interests, lifestyle and hobbies.

The Homeshare supported and Who would beiseligible for carefully monitored by a local Carer’s Allowance?

Homeshare organisation.

ToHomesharing be eligible, aiscarer care not amust rental service, for person for 35pay hours soaadisabled homesharer doesn’t rent. or more per week. At the same time, their incomeand from caring The householder homesharer both pay fee to their localthan should notaamount to more Homeshare to cover £132 per week,organisation otherwise they would the costs of their ongoing service exceed the current earnings limit in and monitoring Carer’s Allowance.support. The homesharer will contribute to the householder towards utility bills.

We hope that this clarifies this issue for you and confirms our existing guidance.

13

Steve Collis

Hello to my fellow carers, I hope the summer so far is going well and that the earlier heatwave didn’t cause too much distress to you and those you care for. Since I last wrote to you so many things have changed, none more than the cost-of-living crisis and the looming winter fuel bills. I have spoken to many of you, who are genuinely concerned about your futures and your ability to continue caring. The team here at Shared Lives Plus is doing lots of things behind the scenes about this and I know there will be mentions of this on other pages.

Champion's corner

On a brighter note I have been immersed in my garden which gives me essential time to escape from the pressures of everyday life. I would encourage you all if you can to spend at least an hour a day in the outside and if you have a garden grow something as this gives you a sense of achievement.

14

Along with Helen my colleague, I would like to continue to reassure you that we both represent you all at all levels of Shared Lives Plus and we are still as passionate today in this role as we were three and a half years ago. We are both carers of more than 25 years and share your concerns. I am still humbled by some of the chats I have with carers and always impressed with the dedication and rofessionalism even in these really hard times. Helen and I are dealing with carer issues all the time and do our utmost to support you through the hard times, please call us as we can help……..that’s what we are here for………..YOU. Have a great rest of the summer, Steve

Helen Piscioneri

I was away on holiday from Shared Lives Plus when the magazine went to print, but Steve has said it all. Keep in touch and don't ever hesitate to ring us.

For support or advice, call the Shared Lives Plus carer helpline on 0151 227 3499 or email membership@sharedlivesplus.org.uk

SECTION Why not start TITLEa carer support group?

Here at Shared lives Plus, we believe that independent carer support groups in your local scheme, can be invaluable in resolving issues, improving the service, resource and information sharing. We’d like to show you how being a part of Who are Who are a support group has helped Shared Lives carers speak collectively through an householders? homesharers? elected spokesperson and how, in this way our carers have the opportunity to draw attention to particular issues, without feeling vulnerable.

So what is an independent

What do you want from

Start a carer support group

Often older people or people who need Typically, younger people – creating informal supportCarer to continue living in their an intergenerational group? your group? match. own home.

The simple answer is, whatever When you first meet, try and Professional students looking for decide an They may have support needs alternative or student housing. you want it to or be.may At its best, it is what it to is halls you would like to achieve, have become isolated or anxious about a place, whether that be in a cafe create a purpose; this could be a place living alone.

Key to public service workersand whosignpost cannot (depending on how close by you all share information afford housing where they work. live) or in a zoom meeting room, useful services in your area. Maybe A person that enjoys passing on their skills where our carers can speak openly you’d like to be a campaign group? and experience to enrich the lives of those A person that is happy to give their time and honestly about concerns, and Perhaps your group will just be a that Homeshare with them. to support the needs of older people. know that they will receive support, place to make friends and combat the understanding and friendship. It can isolation so many of us have struggled be as formal or informal as you would with over the past few years. like to make it.

Make a match to enable an Lets get started! older person to live longer at home 1. Chair/facilitator/coordinator?

How a group choose to organise Each Homeshare match themselves is bespoke and can vary, but it’s a agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local good idea for someone to take on Homeshare provider can make a unique the job of chairing the meetings. match between the person you’ve got Perhaps have an initial getting in mind, and a homesharer who has the you session and then right interests and skills to to know support them. nominate candidates, in this way, eachwill member Once a match is made, you have will feel they have peace of mind that the person you’re some ownership of the group. supporting has the best support possible for them as an individual.

2. Take notes These don’t have to be very detailed, but it’s always good to have a framework for further discussion if you didn’t get through everything you wanted to talk about and if there are any agreed actions, for example contacting scheme managers, then you will have a note of who and when this took place.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and even though I hate to admit it I do need a bit of extra help round the house – I’m not getting 3. Create a joint aim any younger!”

When you’ve decided what you Householder - London want your group to be, you may

want to turn these into a written statement. If you decide to do this, keep checking in with members Key facts: of the group and make sure that to speak.

Noeveryone personal gets care aischance involved, only practical support and Then as new members join the companionship is use provided. group, you can this as a way to introduce what you do.

All Homeshare participants are vetted, and matches are based 4. Terms of reference on interests, lifestyle and hobbies.

This is just a fancy way of The Homeshare is supported and describing the purpose and carefully monitored by a local structure organisation. of the group. It will Homeshare include your aim, the members, roles (Chair,istreasurer etc.), Homesharing not a rental service, so finances a homesharer pay rent. and alldoesn’t members should agree to them.

The householder and homesharer a fee to their local 5.both Setpay some ground rules Homeshare organisation to cover Ground rules can be a helpful the costs of their ongoing service way of making things run and monitoring support. The smoothly. will They must be to agreed homesharer contribute the to by all members, it can householder towards and utility bills.be a constantly evolving document that can be added to or amended as needed.

15

Sharing magazine - May 2022

All views are equal

Respect confidentiality

Respect each other

Be constructive

Some things to think about Your first meetings don’t have to be huge to mean they’re a success, your group’s success will be measured on whether attendees had fun, and felt coming along was worthwhile and you’re doing what needs to be done.

Grab everyone’s contact details, and ask if it’s okay to share them so you can call each other for advice, or you may want to set up a whats app group so you can keep in touch when you want.

If you’re an outgoing person, put yourself forward, introduce yourself and share a little about yourself, that way less gregarious members of the group will feel welcome to do the same.

Build in time for people to offload, sometimes that’s just what everyone needs!

Remember to share what you’re doing with us, so we can encourage other members around the UK. We’re here to help get you started, and we’ll keep in touch as you go along to help you promote and develop your group.

Email membership@ sharedlivesplus.org.uk or ring 0151 227 3499 to get started.

16

“I hope that when I talk honestly about my experiences, they think “well he can say that, why can’t I?’”

“I tell everyone, report everything to your scheme”

“So many of us have felt so isolated, I know I have.”

“I wouldn’t have known to apply for a water cap if I hadn’t gone along.”

SECTION Why not start TITLEa carer support group?

What can Shared Lives carer reps do to help?

Who are householders?

Raise issues with scheme manager from Shared Lives

Who are homesharers?

carer group Act as a contact for all Shared Lives carers, not just those who turn up Often older people or people who need Typically, younger people – creating Report back to respond to in Shared informal support toand continue living their Lives carers an intergenerational match. ownabout home. progress within the local authority decisionProfessional students looking for an making structures They may have support needs or may alternative to halls or student housing. have become isolated or anxious about What can Shared Lives carers do to help? Key public service workers who cannot living alone. afford housing where they work.

Work that constructively and positively with the group A person enjoys passing on their skills

and experience to enrich the lives of those A person that is happy to give their time Agree with scheme early-on what the relationship is that Homeshare with them. to support the needs of older people. between Shared Lives carer reps/scheme/group Let everyone have a voice Engage with the group – you get out what you put in

Make a match to enable an What can the Shared Lives scheme do to help? older person to live longer at home Respect independence and confidentiality of the group/ Shared Lives carer reps Each Homeshare match is bespoke and Key facts: Keep groups informed changes agreed on a case-by-case basis. of Your local within Homeshare providerthat canmight make affect a unique the scheme them No personal care is involved, match between the person you’ve got only practical support and available to answer in mind,Be and a homesharer whoquestions has the companionship is provided. right interests and skills to support them.

Champion the desirability of Shared Lives carer All Homeshare participants are reps in decision-making structures both within the Once a match is made, you will have vetted, and matches are based andthe within wider structures when they are peace ofScheme mind that person you’re on interests, lifestyle and hobbies. making decisions supporting has the best support possible The Homeshare is supported and for them as an individual. carefully monitored by a local What can Shared Lives Plus do to help?

Homeshare organisation.

“It’s given me a new Communicate/advertise meetings to our members Homesharing is not a rental service, perspective ongrants lifeavailable and from £120 to £500 so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

Provide funding evenFacilitate though I hatewith toother groups (including The householder and homesharer conversations both pay a fee to their local repsit speaking reps) a bit admit I do toneed Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their ongoing service Providehelp early-stage support,the such as independent of extra round and monitoring support. The Chairs/facilitators and sessions to help a group homesharer will contribute to the house – I’m getting identify their not aims, objectives and elect reps householder towards utility bills. any younger!”

Help the Shared Lives carer group and scheme work Householder - London 17

Celebrating the best of Shared Lives week 2022

Sharing magazine - May 2022

18

#SharedLivesWeek2022 was a fantastic celebration of the best of Shared Lives. Up and down the country Shared Lives carers, schemes, and households were busy getting out there and having a good time while raising the profile of Shared Lives.

There were drop-in sessions across the UK, in town halls, parks and libraries.

Load of picnics and day trips for people to get together and have a good time – thankfully with lovely weather!

Wakefield’s main Shared Lives Week event was a Carer’s Coffee Morning at Hemsworth Community Centre where they had a quiz, guess how many sweets in a jar, treasure hunt, countdown raffle and a selfie station. They decorated the event with bunting created by people who live in Shared Lives.

SECTION TITLE Shared Lives week 2022 And even when the Shared Lives community weren’t getting together in big groups, you are were Who still sharing your activities householders? with the world, to give people a glimpse into what a Shared Lives life can look like.

Often older people or people who need informal support to continue living in their own home.

They may have support needs or may have become isolated or anxious about living alone.

A person that enjoys passing on their skills and experience to enrich the lives of those that Homeshare with them.

Who are homesharers?

Typically, younger people – creating an intergenerational match.

Shared Lives Plus got in on the event action ourselves, with a stand at the NHS Professional Expo students an Confederation and looking British for Association alternative to halls or student housing. of Social Workers conference.

Key public service workers who cannot Throughout the day, health and care leaders afford housing where they work. and their teams came and found out about theA opportunities that Shared person that is happy to giveLives theircan time bring first hand from of Lee whopeople. lives in a to support the –needs older Shared Lives arrangement with Shared Lives carer Chris, and from our ambassador Meg.

Schemes also used #SharedLivesWeek2022 to give people a bit more information about

Make a Lives, match to enable an videos, radio interviews, or colleague spotlight profiles.

Shared whether through FAQ older person to live longer at home Each Homeshare match is bespoke and agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare provider can make a unique match between the person you’ve got in mind, and a homesharer who has the right interests and skills to support them.

Of course, while Shared Lives Week may be over for another Once a match is made, you will have peace ofthe mind that person you’re year, work ofthe Shared Lives supporting has the best support continues. And Moray in possible for them as an individual.

Scotland followed up their online Shared Lives Week campaign with an in-person recruitment event.

“It’s given me a new perspective on life and Diane from Moray tells us it was even though I hate to a lovely day with a steady stream of people the event. admit itthroughout I do need a bit of“Much extra help round hilarity was had over the tea and cakes - so good to bring house – I’m not getting people together. Three potential any younger!” carers have already been in

Key facts: No personal care is involved, only practical support and companionship is provided.

Thank you to everyone who took All Homeshare participants are part inand Shared Livesare Week.

Whether vetted, matches based you were hosting event, or on interests, lifestylean and hobbies. sharing a hashtag, it all adds up.

The Homeshare is supported and carefully monitored by a local Homeshare organisation.

Because when we work together to do things, great things can happen.

Homesharing is not a rental service, so homesharer doesn’t Orato put it another way pay – rent.

The homesharer Ourhouseholder Lives getand better both pay a fee to their local when they’re Shared Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their ongoing service and monitoring support. The homesharer will contribute to the householder towards utility bills.

touch for more info.”

Householder - London

See more pictures and videos on our website

19

Why we love Shared Lives 20

Anne and Lawrence Donnelly in their mid seventies, from Derry, Northern Ireland have supported Jonathon, 37, since he was eight years old.

He grew up alongside Anne’s children and grandchildren to give his parents a break from their caring role.

“We love including Jonathon in what we’re doing, whenever he comes to stay with us. We go and watch the horse riding shows which my granddaughter competes in,” Anne says. “He can spot her before the rest of the family!”

“We love taking part in local events like our local Where’s Wally sponsored walk. You’re a tonic to us Jonathon, we can’t imagine our lives without you in it!”

Glenda Barnett, Scheme Manager, Western Health and Social Care Trust, Northern Ireland, adds, “Anne and Lawrence are dedicated and committed to supporting Jonathon for as long as they can and really do provide a home from home experience for Jonathon. We love the fun they have together!”

Ambassador for Wales

Who are Catherine Watchorn householders?

Shared Lives Ambassador for Wales

Who are homesharers?

A new Ambassador for Wales

Often older people or people who need Typically, younger people – creating Livesliving Plusinistheir delighted to welcome a new member to our team informal supportShared to continue an intergenerational match. of Shared Lives Plus Ambassadors. Catherine is our first Ambassador own home.

Professionalour students lookingwork, for an from Wales and is looking forward to supporting development They may have support needs or may alternative to hallsNHS or student housing. promoting Shared Lives to commissioners, politicians, and social have become isolated or anxious about care staff. living alone.

Key public service workers who cannot afford housing they work.

It is vital that people's stories are told first hand, aboutwhere what Shared Lives is A person that enjoys passing on their skills like. Catherine has lived with her Shared Lives carer Liz and Liz’s family and experience to enrich the lives of those A person that is happy to give their time for the last 13 years. that Homeshare with them. to support the needs of older people.

Catherine explained what was important to her, and what she would change about her own Shared Lives arrangement, and the first thing she said was “Don’t change a thing”.

Make a match “In tothis enable anI’d like to tell more people about Shared Lives so that new role, have what I have here with Liz and her family. A lot of people older person toothers livecan longer I speak to have never heard of Shared Lives or don’t understand it.” at home Theisrole will mean Each Homeshare match bespoke and Catherine will work alongside the development team Key facts: at Shared Lives Plus to raise awareness of this unique model of care, agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare providerattending can make meetings a unique and webinars, helping people to understand what No personal care is involved, match between the person got Sharedyou’ve Lives is really like. only practical support and in mind, and a homesharer who has the companionship is provided. right interests and skills to support them.

“I love living with Liz, my Shared Lives carer. Sometimes we do things together or by myself – like gardening, I’veAll got a dog, so taking him for Homeshare participants are Once a match is made, you will have a walk, shopping, going to the beach, just normal I’ve talked to vetted, things. and matches are based peace of mind that the person you’re Welsh Government about Shared Lives. I really like living with Liz, on interests, lifestyle andshe’s hobbies. supporting has the best support possible The Homeshare is supported and careful, funny and always there when I need her.” for them as an individual. carefully monitored by a local Homeshare organisation.

“Shared Lives is perfect, I don’t want it to change. Liz is “It’s given me a new Homesharing is not a rental service, fantastic. I can do the things I enjoy have freedom soand a homesharer doesn’t pay rent. perspective on life and to live the life I choose, not be told I must go to bed at a The householder and homesharer even thoughcertain I hate to time every night, eat at the both same time each day. pay a fee to their local admit it I doThis need a bit is family life and it’s perfect” Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their ongoing service of extra help round the and monitoring support. The - Catherine Watchorn, Shared Lives Ambassador homesharer will contribute to the house – I’m not getting utility bills.

You can listen to Catherine in conversationhouseholder with Sharedtowards Lives Plus Wales any younger!” development manager Kathryn Morgan on the news pages on our website.

Householder - London 21

Sharing magazine - May 2022

Useful phone numbers

Who are householders?

Membership enquiries: UK tax return service:

Who are homesharers?

For legal expenses enquiries

0330 303 1876 NB There is a charge for Shared Lives Plus Office 0151 227 3499 this service To make a claim on your info@sharedlivesplus legal expenses cover: Often older people or people who need Business Services: Typically, younger people – creating Intellect .org.uk ARAG match. informal support to continue livingJane in their an intergenerational Barrett own home.

0117 917 1698 0121 794 2289 Shared Lives Plus Professional students looking for an currently £160 inc. VAT. carer helpline: They may have support needs or may alternative toInsurance: halls or student housing.

0151become 227 3499 have isolated or anxious about BWM Accountants: Key public service Towergate main line living alone. workers who cannot A message will be taken 236they 8603work.

Sue Stephens afford housing0113 where 0151 236 1494 and one ofthat the carer A person enjoyssupport passing on their skills Public liability queries: team will call you and experience toback enrich the livescurrently of those £175 + VAT A person that is happy to give their time that Homeshare with them. to support the needs of older people.

Craig Pinches Mortgage advice: Legal advice: 07515 629473 Mortgage Brain: Katie/Marcus General telephone legal For Household/Travel/ 0800 987 1700 advice on any legal matter, Motor Insurance: including de-approval Benefit Make a advice: match to enable an Christine Howard older person Jackson Lees to live longerJackson Lees 0113 236 8603 0151 541 0240 where you 0151 541 0240 Christine.Howard@ at home will be put through to the towergate.co.uk relevant department Each Homeshare match is bespoke and Key facts: agreed on a case-by-case basis. Your local Homeshare provider can make a unique No personal care is involved, match between the person you’ve got only practical support and in mind, and a homesharer who has the companionship is provided. right interests and skills to support them.

All Homeshare participants are Once a match is made, you will have vetted, and matches are based peace of mind that the person you’re on interests, lifestyle and hobbies.

Find out supporting hasmore the best support possible The Homeshare is supported and for them as an individual. carefully monitored by a local To find out more about anything in this issue, search on Homeshare organisation. sharedlivesplus.org.uk using the suggested search keywords.

“It’s given me a new Search keywords: Sharing 38 perspective on life and evenwww.sharedlivesplus.org.uk though I hate to info@sharedlivesplus.org.uk admit it I do need a bit Lives Plus round the ofShared extra help G04, The Cotton Exchange house – I’m not getting Old Hall Street Liverpool any younger!”

L3 9JR Householder - London 0151 227 3499

Homesharing is not a rental service, so a homesharer doesn’t pay rent.

The householder and homesharer both pay a fee to their local Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their ongoing service and monitoring support. The homesharer will contribute to the Reg utility Charitybills. number householder towards (England and Wales) 1095562 Company number 4511426 Reg Charity number (Scotland) SC042743