Devon charity appeals for new carers as Shared Lives week celebrates community impact

A Devon-based charity is urging local residents to open their homes and hearts to people in need of care and support as part of a national campaign celebrating life-changing community support.

Shared Lives South West, based in Kingsteignton, has launched a call for more carers during Shared Lives Week (June 23–27), an annual event that highlights the positive difference carers make across the UK. The charity has been operating for over 20 years, helping adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental health conditions, and age-related illnesses like dementia to live full and independent lives.

The organisation currently supports nearly 500 people across Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset and is actively seeking more individuals and families to become Shared Lives Carers. The role involves welcoming someone into your home either full-time or for short breaks, in a paid position similar to adult fostering.

“Our mission is to match individuals with carers who can provide a home-based, person-centred approach,” said Rose Gapper, Shared Lives Team Leader. “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, and you’re never alone; we’re with you every step of the way.”

Each arrangement is tailored to suit both the carer and the person receiving support, with the focus on shared living in a safe, nurturing, and empowering environment.

Nick Higgins, a Shared Lives Carer from Sidmouth for over 15 years, shared his experience supporting Kevin and others through short breaks: “Anyone who has the right values and attitude can become a Shared Lives Carer and it’s so flexible,” said Nick. “There’s no typical day. One man I support needs help with his health, so I check in with how he’s doing and pick him up from work. The other goes to a day placement and enjoys being outdoors, especially in the garden.

“We love eating together and talking about what’s going on that day and in the world. We also enjoy walking the dogs and are busy in our village community. It focuses on what the person’s needs are and how that fits in with the day. We aren’t driven by the clock and the people who live with us become part of our big family.”

The charity works in partnership with Devon County Council, which contracts its services and supports its ongoing mission. Cllr Richard Keeling, Devon County Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “We are delighted to support Shared Lives South West and the work that its carers do to support people with learning disabilities, autism, dementia or who have difficulties related to mental health or older age.

“The service provides a real 'family home' alternative to supported living or residential care. I would like to encourage people who have a spare room, and who would like to make a real difference to someone's life – to help them live their best life – to consider becoming a Shared Lives South West Carer.”

For more information about becoming a Shared Lives Carer, visit www.sharedlivessw.org.uk or call 01626 360170.

Shared Lives Week runs from June 23 to 27, celebrating the vital role of carers and the communities they help create.