A Paid Role: Shared Lives Carer Pay & Benefits

Becoming a Shared Lives carer is a paid, self‑employed role that allows you to support adults in a home‑based setting while earning a reliable income.

Shared Lives Carers are paid a weekly fee to support someone living with them long term, as well as a contribution toward rent and household costs, such as food, electricity, gas and water.

Shared Lives pay varies depending on the support needs of the person you’re supporting and the type of arrangement you offer

How Shared Lives Carer Pay Works

• Shared Lives Carers are paid a weekly fee when someone lives with them long‑term and receive contributions towards rent and household costs such as food, electricity, gas, and water.
• Weekly payments vary depending on the type of support you provide, how many people you support, and their level of need.
• For example, long‑term placements might range from around £420 up to £673 per week per person (subject to assessment), while short breaks might attract £79 to £139 per night.

Shared Lives Carer Self‑Employment & Tax Relief

• Shared Lives Carers are self-employed – they are not employees of the scheme. More about this is explained when you go through our application process.
• A special form of tax relief, Qualifying Care Relief, is available to people who provide Shared Lives care.

What Influences How Much You Earn?

• • Support needs: Higher need levels typically attract higher fees.
  • Type of Placement: Long‑term vs short‑term vs respite.
  • Number of people supported: More placements can mean a higher total weekly income.
  • Local funding arrangements: Some local authorities pay different bands based on region.