Changes to Shared Lives Service deliver fairer support for carers
Monday 19 October 2026
Bridgend County Borough Council is proposing changes to its Shared Lives Service that will create a fairer and more sustainable model for carers while supporting the future growth of this vital community-based service.
Shared Lives offers adults who need care and support the opportunity to live as part of a family household with approved Shared Lives carers, providing a personalised alternative to residential care and supported living.
The proposed changes will introduce a new banded payment system for carers, ensuring that payments better reflect the level of support being provided. The revised approach aims to create greater fairness and consistency across the service, while helping to attract and retain carers in the years ahead.
Importantly, existing carers who would receive less under the new arrangements will be protected through a "no detriment" arrangement, meaning they will continue to receive their current level of payment for up to two years while the new system is implemented.
"Shared Lives carers play an incredibly important role in supporting some of our most vulnerable residents, and it is essential that they are recognised fairly for the care and support they provide.These proposals have been developed to create a more equitable payment structure that better reflects differing levels of support, while providing protection for existing carers during the transition period. The changes will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the service and support our ambition to welcome more Shared Lives carers in the future."
The proposals follow a period of consultation with carers, people supported by the service and other stakeholders. Feedback received during the consultation directly influenced the recommendations, including the decision to introduce transitional protection for existing carers.
The council is also proposing changes to the contribution arrangements paid by people using the service. Any increases would be introduced gradually over a three-year period to help ensure they remain manageable for individuals and families.
Shared Lives is recognised as one of the most cost-effective forms of care and support, while enabling people to live as part of a family and community setting. The council believes the proposed changes will strengthen the service and help meet growing demand in the future.
The recommendations will now be considered by Cabinet on Tuesday 20 October 2026.