'Foster' homes needed for adults with care needs

Kent County Council's plea comes amid Shared Lives Week

People in Kent are being urged to open their homes to adults who need extra care.

Kent County Council's (KCC) Shared Lives scheme has supported more than 150 carers over 30 years who provide homes for adults with learning disabilities, autism, dementia, mental health conditions, and physical or sensory disabilities.

In the paid role, carers offer either short breaks or a full-time home, similar to fostering, but for people over the age of 18 who want to live as independently as possible.

KCC's plea comes amid Shared Lives Week, which runs until Friday.

"Every arrangement is tailored to meet the needs and preferences of the adult, creating a unique and empowering support system built on trust, respect, and shared living," the council said.

Vanessa Childs, Kent Shared Lives' registered manager, said: "Our mission is to match as many adults with carers who can provide a home-based, person-centred approach to their support and change as many lives as possible."

Diane Morton, KCC's cabinet member for adults social care and public health, said: "The Kent Shared Lives service provides a vital real 'family home' alternative to supported living or residential care where people can develop lifetime relationships and family bonds to help them truly flourish."