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- Tasks: Share your home and life with an adult needing support, fostering independence.
- Company: Surrey Choices runs a unique Shared Lives Scheme in Surrey, promoting community-based care.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, self-employment benefits, and special tax arrangements.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in someone's life while gaining valuable experience and skills.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just a caring attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Training and ongoing support provided to ensure you succeed as a Shared Lives Carer.
Shared Lives is a national scheme that offers a unique and community-based model of care and support. Surrey Choices run a Shared Lives Scheme in Surrey and the surrounding areas. Shared Lives Carers open their home, family, and community life to sharing it with an adult in need of support. An arrangement can be long-term, where customers live with the Carer, stay for a short break/respite, or have additional daytime support to learn new skills/share hobbies.
It is extraordinary because ordinary people open up their homes to others all over the UK. Living with a Shared Lives family provides our customers with independence in their own community. Carers are matched to their needs and these will be linked with a home that suits them, fully respecting their independence and choice.
Shared Lives works specifically with disabled people, autistic people, older people, those with sensory needs, those with mental health problems, and those with support needs, whatever their age. It provides people with the opportunity to become more independent and to learn new skills in a safe, supportive home environment.
As a Shared Lives Carer, you would share your home with an adult that has been matched with you. Depending on how much time you can commit, this might be a long-term arrangement or a short-term break. You may also just provide occasional respite care, or you may spend one or two days a week with the person you are helping, rather than them living with you.
As a Shared Lives Carer, you will be paid by us depending on the type of care you are offering. You will be self-employed, so you will need to register as self-employed and pay tax and National Insurance contributions yourself. There are special tax arrangements for Shared Lives Carers known as qualifying care relief, and this does not prevent you from working in other employment.
We will give you all the information, training, and support you require to support someone who has particular needs in your home. For more information, please contact Paul Dawson, Registered Manager: Telephone: 01483 806522.
Shared Lives Carer employer: Surrey Choices
Contact Detail:
Surrey Choices Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Shared Lives Carer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Shared Lives model and its values. Understanding the principles of community-based care will help you articulate your passion for supporting individuals in need during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current Shared Lives Carers or join relevant online forums. Engaging with those already in the role can provide valuable insights and tips that can enhance your understanding and preparation for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight any relevant experience in caregiving or community support when discussing your suitability for the role. Sharing personal stories or examples can demonstrate your commitment and ability to connect with individuals who have diverse needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your home environment and how it can accommodate someone in need of support. Showing that you have thought about the practical aspects of being a Shared Lives Carer can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Shared Lives Carer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand what being a Shared Lives Carer entails. Read through the job description carefully and consider how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities outlined.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in care, support, or community work. Emphasise any previous roles where you've demonstrated empathy, patience, and the ability to support individuals with diverse needs.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for helping others and your understanding of the Shared Lives model. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that showcase your suitability for the role and your commitment to fostering independence in others.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, be sure to mention specific skills that are important for a Shared Lives Carer, such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in past situations.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surrey Choices
✨Show Your Empathy
As a Shared Lives Carer, empathy is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've supported others in the past, demonstrating your understanding of their needs and feelings.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Discuss your ability to adapt to different situations and needs. Whether it's providing long-term care or short-term respite, showing that you're flexible will be a big plus.
✨Demonstrate Community Engagement
Talk about your involvement in your community and how you can integrate the person you’ll be caring for into local activities. This shows that you value independence and social inclusion.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready about the role and the support you'll receive. This not only shows your interest but also helps you understand if this is the right fit for you.
