Transitioning from foster care to Shared Lives Care with Ategi

We deeply appreciate the dedication and commitment it takes to be a foster carer. You've provided children stability, support, and love, and as they grow older, you may wonder, "What's next?" Whether you’re considering supporting a new young adult or continuing to care for someone who has reached 18, there’s a rewarding path waiting for you—becoming a Shared Lives carer.

What is Shared Lives?

Shared Lives is an inspiring program that extends the care and support you’ve been providing as a foster carer into adulthood. Designed for adults with additional needs, Shared Lives helps them live independently while receiving practical and emotional support. As a Shared Lives carer, you can continue making a significant difference in someone's life, helping them transition smoothly from the children’s care system into adulthood.

Why Transition to Shared Lives?

Continuity of care: When a child in foster care reaches the age of 18, they face a significant transition from children's to adult services. Remaining with their foster carers can ease this transition, allowing them to receive continued care and support in a familiar environment. This continuity is crucial for their well-being and stability.


Flexibility: You don’t have to stop fostering to become a Shared Lives carer. This role offers the flexibility to support a new adult while continuing your foster care duties.


Variety of support options: Shared Lives offers diverse ways to provide support. Whether through living together, offering day support, short breaks, or respite care, you can choose the arrangement that best fits your lifestyle and the needs of the person you're supporting.

Steps to transition from foster care to Shared Lives care

Assessment of the foster child: The foster child needs to be assessed by an adult services care manager to determine if they have eligible care and support needs as an adult.

Applying to become a Shared Lives carer: Foster carers need to apply and be assessed and approved as Shared Lives carers. This process can take between 4-6 months and is similar to the foster care approval process.

Timing of the transition: We recommend starting the approval process 6-8 months before the young person turns 18.

Many foster carers have successfully transitioned to Shared Lives carers, continuing their rewarding journey of care. Here are a few stories from our community:

Martin was previously Amy’s foster parent, however, since she turned 18 he decided to join Shared Lives.

“Since Amy joined us it became clear she was the missing piece of the puzzle, she completes us."

- Martin, Shared Lives carer

Want to know more about the benefits of Shared Lives?

Benefits of Shared Lives