THE first batch of carers have completed induction training as part of the assessment process to join an innovative shared lives scheme.

Seven sets of carers from across Dudley borough spent time learning about duty of care, safeguarding, communication skills and record keeping as part of the Camphill Village Trust-based initiative.

The not-for-profit charity, which is based in Stourbridge, is launching the scheme which involves people being paid to care for adults who may be vulnerable or have a disability.

Carers are matched to support the person from their own home where they will help develop their skills so they can lead an ‘ordinary independent life’.

Nick and Helen Chater, from Norton, said: “We saw the advert in the Cockleshell Pottery Café over the summer and, as already experienced foster carers, we thought it would be a really inventive way to work with an older client group, whilst giving something back to the community.

“It was a comprehensive course and covered all we needed to know, it’s put our minds at ease and now we’re raring to go.

“It was nice to meet with all the other shared lives carers who were a great bunch of people and just as excited as we are to be part of such a worthy scheme.”

Carers taking part in the scheme, who must be over the age of 18 and have a spare bedroom, will be paid between £400 and £600 per week depending on the level of support they provide, as well as receive significant tax breaks.

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the CVT shared lives scheme and becoming a carer should call 01384 597264 or visit www.cvt.org.uk/sharedlives.

Kate Morgan, CVT’s registered manager, added: “We really have grown over the last few months and once the assessment reports are completed on the carers, they will be presented to an independent panel to approve their status.

“That’s when the work really begins and we start matching people who need support, to the households we have recruited.

“We really are starting to raise the profile of the scheme in the area and local MP Margot James has arranged to visit us on Friday as she has a background in mental health services.”