Essex Shared Lives scheme host CQC Chief Inspector of Adult Social Care

During the visit, Chris Badger went to a Shared Lives household, followed by a collaborative session as Essex County Council’s County Hall meeting with young care experienced people supported in Shared Lives, Shared Lives carers, scheme staff, and leaders from across adult social care, children’s care and Shared Lives Plus.

The visit provided an opportunity to see first-hand how young people leaving care have successfully moved into Shared Lives, promoting what good social care looks like – relationships, belonging, and community connection that help people live life their way as they start adulthood. Shared Lives schemes bring people who need support together with Shared Lives carers to share homes, lives, and community connections, so everyone has the chance to live where they feel they belong.

Shared Lives for young people leaving care can provide consistency and long-term relationships at a time when many young people experience significant change. Carers support young people with everyday life skills such as managing education or employment, budgeting and building social connections, while offering emotional support and guidance.

This approach helps young people leaving care to move forward at their own pace, reducing isolation and promoting positive outcomes as they prepare for more independent living.

The visit reflects the CQC’s continued focus on understanding how adult social care services deliver safe, effective and compassionate support, and how Shared Lives and other community-based services can help improve outcomes for people across England.

Find out more about the Shared Lives for young people leaving care programme.