Housing options and care homes

Shared Lives scheme

The Shared Lives scheme supports people aged 18 and over who have care and support needs. It provides accommodation and support, or regular stays or visits, with an approved Shared Lives Host. Helping people gain the skills and confidence they need to live independent lives.

The scheme matches the person needing care and support to a compatible Shared Lives Host.

Read more about the scheme in our Essex Shared Lives introduction guide (PDF, 696.49kB).

Become a Shared Lives Host

To be a Shared Lives Host you must:

• have a suitable spare bedroom
• be willing to support adults with care and support needs, such as learning disabilities and autism
• be comfortable using the internet, email and Microsoft Office

To apply, complete our application form (docx, 61.16kB) and email it to essex.sharedlives@essex.gov.uk. A member of the team will review your application and get back to you about next steps.

Contact us

If you have any questions that are not covered by the content on this page or in our Essex Shared Lives introduction guide (PDF, 696.49kB), contact us by:

• email: essex.sharedlives@essex.gov.uk
• phone: 0333 103 8071

We are available Monday to Thursday between 9am to 5pm, and on Fridays between 9am to 4:30pm