Shared Lives Plus - emergency and respite care (UK)
Shared Lives places an adult who needs support into the home of a vetted Shared Lives carer. It runs as a UK-wide network of around 150 local schemes, most council- or NHS-funded. Often the fastest, most personalised alternative to a care home bed.
The short answer. Network of Shared Lives schemes. A vetted Shared Lives carer hosts an adult in their own home, including emergency and short-break placements. Funded mostly by local authorities or the NHS.
Key facts
- Service type. Shared Lives carer hosts the person in their own home. Includes emergency and short-break placements.
- Geography. UK-wide (~150 schemes, England-led)
- Same-week admissions. Case-by-case. Where the local scheme has capacity, match within 72 hours is common.
- Pricing model. Mostly funded by the local commissioner (council or NHS). Self-funded rates set by individual schemes.
- CQC regulation. Schemes are CQC-regulated as a distinct service type.
Recent changes (last 12 months)
Continued expansion of emergency and short-break Shared Lives as an alternative to a care home bed.
Frequently asked
Who is Shared Lives for?
Adults who can live in a family-style setting rather than a care home. Suits people with mild to moderate needs, learning disabilities, mental health needs or older adults who would otherwise be socially isolated.
How is a Shared Lives carer vetted?
DBS checks, training, ongoing supervision by the scheme. Inspected by CQC. Far more involved than a typical lodger arrangement.
Can I request Shared Lives in a crisis?
Yes. Ask the council adult social care duty desk for a Shared Lives emergency match. They will route you to the local scheme. Capacity varies by area.
Last reviewed 2026-06-21. Clinical reviewer pending appointment (target Sep 2026); meanwhile reviewed by the editorial team.