MORE carers are needed to support adults with learning disabilities within the family home.

Twelve adults in the Ealing borough with mild to moderate learning difficulties are currently benefiting from at-home placements as part of the Ealing Shared Lives scheme.

Half live with families full-time as an alternative to living in a care home, while the rest use the scheme for overnight or short term respite care or support in the community.

The philosophy behind Shared Lives is that the cared-for person becomes part of the family.

Councillor Hitesh Tailor, cabinet member for health and adults services, said all matches since the scheme began 22 years ago had been a success.

She said: “Everyone involved in Shared Lives says what a profound and positive difference it has made to their lives. 

"The alternative for most of the adults that use the scheme is a residential care home, so they appreciate the extra choice and independence that they get from being part of a family. 

"And carers consistently tell us how much they personally and emotionally benefit from sharing their homes in this way."

Shared Lives carers who provide long term residential support are paid between £342.54 and £449.65 a week, and short term care is paid on a daily or hourly rate.

No special qualifications are needed and carers receive regular support and training from Ealing Council. 

Coun Tailor said: "I would encourage anyone who is interested in finding out more to get in touch with our team.”

To find out more, visit www.ealing.gov.uk/sharedlives or call 020 8825 5436.