Making Shared Care a Reality: A Resource for Carers, Families and Friends

Many carers tell us that moving the person they are caring for, into a care home can be one of the most difficult stages of the dementia journey. While the move may mark the end of providing day-to-day care at home, it does not mark the end of caring. Family members often continue to play an important role in the life of the person they support and want to remain involved in meaningful and positive ways.

This resource has been developed by tide in response to carers who told us that relationships with care home staff can sometimes feel unclear, challenging, or difficult to navigate. Through research, conversations with carers and care home staff, and learning from six shared care pilot sites, we explored what helps carers and staff work together effectively and what can get in the way.

The result is a practical resource designed to help carers understand shared care, build confidence, and develop positive partnerships with care home staff. The resource recognises the valuable knowledge and experience carers bring, while encouraging communication, mutual understanding, and collaboration.