October 13, 2023

North Wales couple convert 12-bedroom home to become Shared Lives carers

Former Secretary of State for Wales and MP for Clwyd West, David Jones, paid a special visit to the home of PSS Shared Lives carers Tim and Sam. Found in the heart of Ruthin, North Wales, their five-acre, 12-bedroom house has become a haven for three individuals with additional needs.   

The visit shed light on the Shared Lives caregiving model, but also drew attention to its cost-effectiveness. Shared Lives could save local authorities hundreds of thousands of pounds every year. 

director of operations, Harriet Michael-Phillips, Ben, Tim and Moz with MP David Jones

Shared Lives is a bit like fostering but designed for adults with support needs. PSS Shared Lives matches specially trained carers with someone who needs support, and they all live together in the carer’s family home. 

Tim and Sam support Scott, Moz and Ben, who each have their own additional needs.  

Tim said: ‘In contrast to care homes or supported living, you have the freedom to try things out, experiment, and tailor care approaches until you discover what works best for them. It’s entirely personalised and tailored to their specific needs, which is why it’s so effective.’  

David Jones has been MP for Clwyd West since 2005.  

David said: ‘Shared Lives delivers care that is personalised, not institutionalised. It should be more widely known and should be a model that is adopted far more widely by local authorities. It’s also very cost-effective, which in the economic climate is another important consideration’.  

Harriet Michael-Phillips is Director of Operations for PSS Shared Lives and also attended. Harriet said: ‘Shared Lives offers a unique and effective approach to care and support. It’s about creating a true sense of belonging and individualised support within a family setting. Our visit today shows the value of Shared Lives, both financially and in addressing the needs of people with support needs.’ 

Shared Lives making big savings for social care 

An independent review conducted on the Shared Lives model has revealed that Shared Lives could save from £8,000 to £30,000 per person every year. This is in relation to people with a learning disability and depends on the level of care provided. 

To find out more about Shared Lives care or to enquire about becoming a carer go to: www.sharedlivescarers.com