Adult social care
Walsall Shared Lives service rated 'Good' in all areas by Care Quality Commission
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Walsall Council's Shared Lives service has been rated 'good' across all five areas assessed by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), recognising the high-quality of support provided to people with learning disabilities and autism living within family homes across the borough.
The inspection took place between 30 June and 2 July 2026, and a report published on 8 July 2026 found the service to be ‘good’ overall, with good ratings for being safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
Shared Lives is a community-based service that recruits, trains and supports self-employed carers who welcome people into their own homes, providing long-term placements, short breaks, respite care and day support. At the time of the inspection, the service was supporting 20 people in long-term placements who received personalised support.
“ We are delighted that our Shared Lives Service has been rated Good in all five areas by the Care Quality Commission. This report recognises the dedication of our Shared Lives carers and staff, who work every day to support people to live fulfilling, independent lives as part of a family and community.
Shared Lives offers a unique alternative to traditional care, enabling people to build meaningful relationships, develop their independence and feel part of family life while receiving the support they need. I would like to thank everyone involved in delivering this service for their commitment and compassion. “
Inspectors highlighted that people, carers and relatives were happy with all aspects of the service and felt safe with the support they received. The report noted that people were treated with kindness and respect, while carers and staff had the skills and training needed to provide safe and effective support.
The CQC found that care was assessed, planned for and reviewed, with people and those important to them involved in decisions about their support. Inspectors also reported that medicines were managed safely, risks were appropriately monitored and there were effective systems in place to oversee the quality of the service.
Shared Lives carers open their homes and to people with care and support needs, or who are transitioning from children’s services into adulthood. The council is encouraging local residents who are interested in making a difference to find out more about becoming a Shared Lives carer.
For more information about Walsall’s shared lives scheme, please visit: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/help-live-home/shared-lives-scheme
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