Date published: May 18, 2026
Partnership working to stimulate Shared Lives growth
Shared Lives Plus has released the second report in a three report series sharing insights from new research exploring how ten schemes across the UK have achieved significant growth. Partnership working to stimulate growth: What we learnt from schemes brings together best practice insights gathered over the past two years from Shared Lives schemes that have significantly increased the number of people they support. The report focuses on three key areas that contribute to sustainable growth: joined-up working with local leaders, effective partnerships across services, and building strong understanding of Shared Lives among social workers.
The report forms part of Shared Lives Plus’ wider work examining the “six building blocks” previously identified in guidance developed with Partners in Care and Health that underpin successful Shared Lives development. It highlights how schemes are aligning with local priorities, building relationships across councils and health services, and embedding Shared Lives into local social care pathways.
Among the findings:
- 60% of surveyed schemes received additional investment after developing clear business cases demonstrating the value and cost benefits of Shared Lives.
- 80% of schemes had developed partnerships with children’s services.
- 80% regularly presented to social work teams to improve awareness and referrals.
- 40% of schemes had introduced a “Shared Lives first” approach to ensure Shared Lives is considered before alternative forms of support.
The report also showcases examples of successful local partnership working, including work with Herefordshire Council, where Shared Lives Plus supported the development of a new vision, strategy and implementation roadmap for the local scheme.
“At a higher level we are now much more visible with strategic colleagues… Shared Lives is part of the transformation agenda and is much better known across social work teams.”
“Shared Lives Plus coming in was timely and gave a kick start to transformation, showing the art of the possible and providing an evidence base for us to build on.”
The report also highlights how schemes that build strong relationships with directors of adult social care, commissioners, housing teams, NHS partners and social workers are better placed to grow sustainably and improve outcomes for people who draw on support.
Behind every piece of best practice was a team determined to provide outstanding support to people in their scheme. By sharing these insights with the wider sector, we hope this learning will not stay hidden and will contribute to the continued growth of Shared Lives across the UK.
To find out more about how Shared Lives Plus supports local areas through the ARF and our consultancy offer, visit our consultancy support page.
Ready to discuss how we can help you establish, grow, or diversify Shared Lives? Email us at consultancy@sharedlivesplus.org.uk
