Our Services

Shared Lives

Shared Lives currently supports people with learning disabilities to lead fulfilling and active lives. Southend Shared Lives carers share their home and community life with individuals, ranging from a few hours a week, to long–term live-in arrangements.

At this Service:

We carefully match the Shared Lives carer with the person requiring support to make sure the arrangement works for everyone. Shared Lives carers need to be flexible, patient, and practical, with an approach that is centred on the person they are supporting. Commitment, motivation, and enthusiasm are more important than formal caring qualifications as training is provided by the scheme. Our Shared Lives carers are passionate and dedicated about the support they provide, and this is why Shared Lives is such a successful form of care in the community. By offering time and encouragement, carers can develop long-term, rewarding relationships with the person. ‘Pairing, Sharing and Caring’.

Contact Details

Civic Centre
Victoria Avenue
Southend-on-Sea
SS2 6ER

Registered Manager: Jennie Andrews
Telephone: 01702 534282
Email: sharedlives@southendcare.co.uk

Shared Lives

The team

Jennie Andrews

Jennie Andrews

CQC Registered Manager

Jennie has been part of the Shared Lives service since it began in 2005 and was involved in developing and establishing the scheme. She has worked in learning disability services for over 24 years and lives in the Southend area.

“it’s more than a job it’s a way of life”

Shared Lives Carer

“I love my job and get so much out of the time I spend with people”

Shared Lives Carer

“The Southend Shared Lives Service is a fundamental part of the support available in Southend for adults with LD to access for respite, long term placements and day support. It’s an ever-growing service, attracting a wide variety of new carers”

Social Worker

“it’s as cosy as toastie”

Shared Lives Service User