Scheme membership
The best practice framework
Our best practice framework brings together over 200 resources to support Shared Lives schemes across the UK. It covers every aspect of running a scheme, from recruitment, approval and reviews, to safeguarding and adult protection, matching, complaints, and ending arrangements.
Developed with schemes and informed by regulation, legislation and sector experience, the framework provides practical guidance, templates, and tools you can use in your everyday work. It is not mandatory, but many schemes use it as an example of best practice to review and strengthen their policies and procedures.
Tailored guidance for your scheme, across the UK
Shared Lives schemes operate within different legal and regulatory frameworks across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. We provide nation-specific guidance and expert advice, helping schemes understand what applies where they work and respond to changes as they happen.
Mediation for relationship breakdowns
Strong relationships are at the heart of Shared Lives, but sometimes relationships between a Shared Lives carer and a Shared Lives scheme become difficult.
Where appropriate, Shared Lives Plus offers an independent mediation service to help both parties explore concerns, improve communication, and work towards a positive resolution before problems escalate. Our aim is to preserve good working relationships wherever possible and support schemes to resolve issues fairly and constructively.
You can contact the membership team on 0151 227 3499 or membership@sharedlivesplus.org.uk
