Newton Abbot carers help raise awareness of life-changing shared lives support

People across Devon are being encouraged to “tell one person” about Shared Lives this June, as Shared Lives South West joins a national awareness week celebrating one of the UK’s highest-rated forms of social care.

Shared Lives Week 2026 runs from 15 to 21 June and is led by Shared Lives Plus. This year’s theme is “Shout about Shared Lives – care worth talking about.”

Shared Lives South West, based in Kingsteignton, supports almost 500 people across Devon, Cornwall and Somerset through carefully matched Shared Lives arrangements, where people who need support share home and family life with approved Shared Lives Carers. Support can include short breaks or long-term arrangements support for people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, young people leaving care and older people living with dementia.

Every arrangement is built around relationships and matching people based on shared interests, values and lifestyles. People have the opportunity to get to know one another gradually before moving in with their carer or enjoying a break.

Susan and Robert Smith from Newton Abbot have been Shared Lives Carers with Shared Lives South West for more than 13 years and have supported many people to grow in confidence and independence. They currently support Michael, known as Spike, in their home.

“I love seeing someone come out of their shell and become the person they want to be.”

said Susan. Robert added:

“We help people change their lives. We’re here to guide and listen.”

Despite supporting nearly 10,000 people across the UK, Shared Lives remains one of social care’s best kept secrets. Shared Lives South West hopes the campaign will encourage more people to learn about the model and consider becoming a Shared Lives carer.

Dominic Spayne, CEO of Shared Lives South West, said:

“Shared Lives is all about relationships, belonging and helping people live good lives. We see every day the difference the right support can make, not only for the person being supported, but for Carers and families too.”

To find out more about Shared Lives South West or becoming a Shared Lives Carer, visit www.sharedlivessw.org.uk.