Fourteen families have opened their lives to disabled and elderly people following a recruitment drive by Sutton Council to encourage people to become a part of the Shared Lives scheme. Seven new households have been approved and a further ten are in the assessment and the approval process.

The latest enrolment means the borough now has 64 spaces for some of the Sutton’s most isolated and vulnerable people.

Sutton Council’s Shared Lives scheme invites people to support the boroughs most secluded and helpless citizens by giving people the chance to let an elderly or disabled person live with them, stay with them for a short break or just take them for a day trip.

Currently there are 31 vulnerable people in Sutton living with another family as part of the Shared Lives Scheme and 14 others receiving temporary respite but the council is still seeking to recruit more people to take part in the service.

Carshalton resident Mala Dosieah has been a Shared Lives carer for thirty years; she explains how she found out about the Sutton scheme:

“Both me and my husband worked as nurses, we loved being able to help people and make  their lives better, so when one day I read a pamphlet about Shared Lives I was keen to be a part of it.

“It took around six months to complete the process; we received home visits and took part in training to get us fully prepared. The first person we cared for was a lady called Rose. Since then we have looked after so many people that I have lost count.

“The longest person we had stay was Gerald; he was part of our family for 27 years until he recently passed away.

“The Shared Lives Service is so rewarding and has added so much love to our family. It is wonderful that we have been able to share our family life with people who otherwise may have missed out.”

Maya Dosieah, Mala’s daughter grew up with her parents being part of the scheme and has now signed up to be a carer herself, she explains:

“The Shared Lives program meant I grew up with an extended family, it was just like having extra brothers and sisters; I saw for myself how good the scheme was so knew that I wanted to be a carer too.”

Prospective carers do not need any qualifications, just time to spare and room in their home. They will receive regular support from council social service workers and get a three-to-six-month training course. All costs associated with the scheme are covered by the council.

Councillor Colin Steers, Chair of the Adult Services and Health Committee, said:

“We need to recruit people who can offer long-term support and accommodation to a vulnerable adult, but we also want to hear from people who could offer support for shorter periods. We’re keen to recruit people with previous experience, but we offer full training so the personal qualities you bring are more important.”

The Shared Lives Service has been recruiting and supporting paid carers in working with adults with learning disabilities, mental health needs and older people. Carers offer their homes and family life to provide a safe place for people to live, have a short break or engage in day activities.

For further information or to register your interest please contact us on: 020 8770 4358 or Email: