A LOCAL couple have told how their life has changed after they shifted to a new career – offering a ‘care at home’ service.

And now more jobs are on offer across Dudley borough and the Black Country area for people attracted by the idea of using their own homes to offer care services, part or full time.

The Shared Lives scheme means people can earn up to £570 a week tax free by opening up their homes and providing care.

People can provide a day session, over-night/short-breaks or offer a permanent home to a diverse range of people who need support - including adults with learning disabilities, autism, mental ill health, sensory impairment, even young adults leaving care, to older people, dementia and those needing short term support following hospital treatment.

In Dudley borough the scheme is operated by the Camphill Village Trust.

The pandemic has seen more and more people seeking a change of direction in life, just like Samantha and Adam Barlow, aged 31, and 38.

“It’s great being paid to support someone in our home, or out in the community. Our lives fit together and it’s fantastic to be able to enrich someone else’s life, whilst also enriching our own. Most important of all, you are providing a loving and supportive environment for someone who needs it.”

“Before becoming Shared Lives Carers, we both worked in catering and hospitality, with a brief time working in community-based care.

“We wanted a career which would fit around our family commitments but also give back to others, with the comfort of working from home.

“The good thing is you don’t need any experience at all – just a caring nature and the commitment to support someone, oh yes, and of course a spare room”

Across the UK, more than 9,000 Shared Lives Carers support around 14,000 adults, through 150 schemes.

Kate Morgan, Registered Manager for the Camphill in Dudley said there were more than 900 Shared Lives Carers across the West Midlands.

“ We have witnessed first-hand how resilient and creative they have been during these uncertain times and continue to support people to live longer, healthier, happier lives.”

To apply, go to: https://www.camphillvillagetrust.org.uk/sharedlives Tel: 01384 441505