How to arrange a Shared Lives placement in Northamptonshire

Step by step

1. Check who Shared Lives is for

   Shared Lives is for adults with an eligible long-term social care need under the Care Act 2014. North Northamptonshire describes it for adults aged 16 and over; West Northamptonshire for adults aged 18 to 65. It supports people with learning or physical disabilities, autism and others, and can be full-time live-in, respite/short breaks or day support.

2. Contact the right council's Shared Lives team

   For North Northamptonshire, email sharedlives@northnorthants.gov.uk or phone 01536 535685. For West Northamptonshire, phone 01604 526129 or email sharedlives@westnorthants.gov.uk. If you are not sure which council covers you, it is based on where the disabled adult lives (North Northants covers Corby, Kettering, Wellingborough, East Northants; West Northants covers Northampton, Daventry, South Northants/Towcester).

3. Get a needs assessment or referral

   A social care professional usually needs to refer you, or you can make a self-referral to be assessed. The council checks that Shared Lives suits your needs and that you are eligible for funded support under the Care Act 2014.

4. Have your home visit and support plan agreed

   The Shared Lives team will arrange to visit, confirm your care and support needs, and agree an individual care and support plan. They will explain what happens next and how they match your preferences to a suitable carer.

5. Be matched and introduced to a carer

   A careful matching process pairs you with a suitable approved carer who can meet your needs and treat you as part of their family. In West Northamptonshire there is an introductory meeting with a potential carer before any placement, so you can see if it feels right.

6. Start your placement and review it

   Once matched, your placement begins (full-time, respite or day support as agreed). Your support plan should be reviewed so it keeps meeting your needs. If it is not working, tell the Shared Lives team so they can help. You can also get independent support from the national charity Shared Lives Plus.