Welcome to Shared Lives Week 2026!

This year’s theme is: Shout about Shared Lives.

Shared Lives is often described as social care’s ‘best kept secret’. This week, we want to change that.

Across the UK, Shared Lives schemes, Shared Lives carers and people supported by Shared Lives will be sharing their stories, events, photos and videos to help more people understand what Shared Lives is and the difference it can make.

We’re starting with Jessie and Henry, who share how they became Shared Lives carers in their twenties while balancing full-time jobs and renovating their first home.

Their story challenges assumptions about who can become a carer and shows how Shared Lives can help young people leaving care build independent lives.

Read their story: Shared Lives Week 2026: “People think carers are older – we’re 27″.

Throughout the week, we’ll be encouraging everyone involved in Shared Lives to take part in our “tell one person” challenge – simply telling one new person about Shared Lives and why it matters, and inviting them to our free national online Shared Lives Week webinar on Thursday 18th June 2-3pm.

The webinar will be hosted by Dr Krish Kandiah OBE, a social entrepreneur, CEO, broadcaster, foster carer and Shared Lives carer. (Pictured right).

Hear from people with lived experience of Shared Lives, Shared Lives carers and family members sharing their experiences and why, if more people knew about Shared Lives, more lives could change.

You can register here: Webinar Registration – Zoom

Across the UK, Shared Lives schemes will be:

• sharing stories and videos
• hosting local events and activities
• meeting with local decision-makers and community groups
• celebrating the people who make Shared Lives possible

Keep an eye on our social media channels throughout the week as we share stories, videos and events from across the UK.

Join the conversation on social media using:

#ShoutAboutSharedLives
#CareWorthTalkingAbout
#SharedLivesWeek2026

This year, Shared Lives Week takes place alongside Learning Disability Week 2026, led by Mencap. Many people who draw on Shared Lives support have a learning disability. The themes of both weeks strongly connect – celebrating people’s lives, challenging assumptions and helping people feel seen, valued and included. Many Shared Lives schemes will be marking both weeks.

Thank you for your support. Here’s to a great Shared Lives Week!