Telford carers service 'good' say inspectors

Telford & Wrekin Council's Shared Lives scheme places adults who need help to live independently with a carer who welcomes them into their home and helps them develop skills to live independently.

Councillor Paul Watling, cabinet member for Children’s and Adult’s Early Help & Support, said: "We are extremely proud of the Shared Lives service and of the staff who deliver it.

"We are also very grateful to our Shared Lives Carers themselves, who help to shape the service we offer so that it’s the very best it can be."

Currently 104 vulnerable adults are placed with Shared Lives carers across the borough of Telford & Wrekin.

The inspection took place on April 26, and May 3, found that the service was, caring, safe, responsive, effective and well-led in the report published on June 7.

When talking about their Shared Lives Carer, one service user said: "They are fab. I really like living with them."

Another service user said, "I would recommend that everyone spends time living within a Shared Lives scheme. It allows you to be part of a family that helps and guides you through life."

Many others spoke with gratitude of the support they had received to become more independent.

The report also noted that several Shared Lives Carers were receiving first class support from Telford & Wrekin Council’s Shared Lives Team to carry out their jobs.

One carer said: "I have a named staff member who I can turn to at any time I need advice or guidance. However, I know I can always just contact the office at any time and there is always someone there to support me."

Another carer said: “We look at any additional support or training I may need. I find this very helpful and supportive."

Telford & Wrekin Council is always on the lookout for more Shared Lives Carers.

To find out more, visit the Shared Lives website.