Laura Sharman 14 September 2021

Union calls for 'new deal' for Shared Lives foster carers

Union calls for new deal for Shared Lives foster carers  image

Councils have been urged to provide a 'pay rise' and respite care for Shared Lives foster carers who look after vulnerable adults in their homes.

Trade union Unite said that while some councils are 'excellent' at supporting these carers, many haven’t received an increase in payments or any paid respite care for at least a decade.

It has published a four-point ‘new deal’ for Shared Lives foster carers that includes providing at least £315 a week for care and support, £100 a week to cover the cost of food and utilities expenses, and housing benefit to be paid in full to carers.

The union also said carers should not be ‘victimised’ if they challenge their pay and conditions.

Unite regional officer, Richard Stanforth, said: ‘Many Shared Lives carers cannot take paid or unpaid holiday, as some councils refuse to provide respite care, and many of them have not had a ‘rise’ in more than a decade which is disgraceful considering the soaring cost of living in recent times.

’Most of the people they care for have learning difficulties, but the schemes have expanded the types of people they will host to include people with mental health difficulties and victims of trafficking.

’They are proud to be ‘Shared Lives’ carers, but some employers have victimised and threatened carers for trying to secure better rights. Their biggest fear is that they will lose the people they care for – many of whom have lived with the carers for years and have become much-loved family members.’

Previous research by Social Finance shows that Shared Lives carers save councils £26,000 per year for every person they look after at home compared to being looked after in a care home.

The £37,000 SEND Problem image

The £37,000 SEND Problem

Natalie Kenneison, COO at Imosphere, argues that the real SEND funding crisis isn’t just about budgets - it’s about the systems behind the decisions.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Housing

North West Leicestershire District Council
£64,241 to £74,525 (plus car allowance)
We are currently seeking a new Head of Housing to lead a number of key service areas Leicestershire
Recuriter: North West Leicestershire District Council

Director of People

Bolton Cares
£80,287 – subject to skills and experience
Bolton Cares is on an exciting journey of transformation and growth and we’re looking for a dynamic, people-focused leader to help shape our future. Bolton, Greater Manchester
Recuriter: Bolton Cares

Director of Finance (Strategy) – deputy S151

Nottingham City Council
up to £125k
Nottingham is a bold, vibrant, and exciting Core City at the heart of the UK, alive with potential and ambition. Nottingham, Nottinghamshire
Recuriter: Nottingham City Council

Adult Learning Tutor Maths WMF2142e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235.00 - £36,124.00 (pro rata)
We are looking for an inspirational tutor to deliver maths courses to our learners across Carlisle. Carlisle, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Adult Learning Tutor ESOL English WMF2144e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£35,235 - £36,124 (pro rata)
We are looking for an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual with experience of teaching ESOL. Whitehaven, Cumbria
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council
Linkedin Banner