Date published: March 10, 2026
New report makes strong case for Shared Lives as a life-changing option for young care experienced people in England
Shared Lives Plus has today published a report setting out the strategic, social and financial case for expanding and growing Shared Lives in England as an option for young people leaving care. Sophie Hargreaves, Senior Analyst at Shared Lives Plus brings together national data, financial analysis and real-life experiences to demonstrate a compelling case for investment into this area of Shared Lives.
The report highlights the growing challenges care experienced people in England face and responds directly to growing pressures facing commissioners.
Against the backdrop of rising demands and costs, the report highlights Shared Lives as a powerful, relationship-based model of support that offers stability, belonging and a genuine home environment. Outcomes for young people in Shared Lives are shown to be strong, particularly for those who transition directly from foster care or children’s residential settings.
“The thing that helped me the most is knowing that I have people I can rely on and people that I can trust. That’s the most important thing that has changed my life with Shared Lives.”
The report focuses on:
- Evidence of why Shared Lives is well suited to supporting care-experienced young people from age 16
- Real stories from Shared Lives schemes already supporting care leavers
- Cost comparisons with foster care, supported accommodation, supported living and residential care, showing Shared Lives can cost significantly lower
- Analysis of preventative benefits linked to mental health, housing and education
The report also explores how Shared Lives can support local priorities, including keeping young people within their local area, and offering flexible, relationship-based support for those not ready for independent living.
“This report brings together existing research and data in one place, giving Local Authorities a clear evidence base to help grow Shared Lives support for young people leaving care. It has been developed as part of the Young People Leaving Care programme, which continues to expand and deliver positive outcomes.”
With 96% of Shared Lives schemes rated good or outstanding by the CQC, the report positions Shared Lives as a high-quality, regulated model that can be scaled locally and nationally with the right backing and investment.
Shared Lives Plus encourages local areas to use the report as a practical resource to:
- Review existing care leaver pathways
- Test Shared Lives for care leavers as an alternative to higher-cost provision, where appropriate
- Inform local strategy and financial planning
Contact our consultancy team to find out more about how we can support you to grow or diversify your Shared Lives schemes for young care experienced people. Find out more about the Shared Lives for young people leaving care programme.
