Support for our carer members

Campaigns and advocacy

Now more than ever it is vital that we are a voice for our members. Our campaigns focus on responding to legal changes affecting our members in every part of the UK, as well as ensuring our carers have the resources to do their job and live a fulfilling life.

We are allies of the Disability Poverty Campaign Group (DPCG), a new coalition led by Disability Rights UK and Inclusion London. The purpose of the group is to respond to increasing poverty in the Disabled community.

We are working with government colleagues for changes to how universal credit is being rolled out, including the restriction of housing costs and income. We will continue to promote the rights of Shared Lives carers and the people they support.

Financial and legal advice

Members have access to free mortgage advice. We understand that many mortgage companies don’t understand that our carers are living with someone unrelated who isn’t considered a tenant. Our specialist mortgage advisors from Mortgage Brain are here to help guide you through the process with no obligation, whether you are a first time buyer, moving home or re-mortgaging.

We also offer guidance and tax advice about how to register as self-employed, qualifying for care relief, and how to do an online tax return. If you have a complex arrangement and you need a tax return done for you, we are partnered with BWM Chartered Accountants who understand your Shared Lives role who can help you out.

As members you also have access to free NI and benefits help from BK Plus, who have advisors who are specialised in self-employed carer finances for over 11 years. You can talk to them about; Income Tax, National Insurance and Benefits.

As well as financial advice our membership also gives you the chance to easily seek legal advice through our legal helpline. This advice line can be used as much as you need.

Membership also gives you public liability insurance. This protects Shared Lives carers from claims of alleged negligence that may cause personal injury or property damage. It’s an essential part of your role, and even if your council say they provide it, please make sure it covers Shared Lives. We hope you never have to use, but if you do we have you covered.

Carer support team

Our carer support team is made up of specialist in-house advisors who are there to listen to you and offer practical advice on day-to-day problems you may encounter. They currently support and advise over 600 Shared Lives carers each year.

Best practice

We offer guidance on best practice on topics ranging from universal credit and benefits advice, to specialist advice on different support needs, such as dementia. This guidance can be accessed via the membership area on our website.

Blue Light Card

Blue Light Card is the discount service for the emergency services, NHS, social care sector and armed forces, providing our members with thousands of amazing discounts online and on the high street.

If you would like to speak to the membership or carer support team, please contact us on membership@sharedlivesplus.org.uk