Tower Hamlets Council’s Shared Lives service has been rated ‘Good’ following its first inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
Shared Lives matches adults with a learning disability with carefully approved carers, who welcome them into their homes and family life. This approach helps people live more independently, form lasting relationships, and remain connected to their communities.
The CQC praised the scheme and Shared Lives carers for treating people with “kindness, compassion, and respect”, and for its safe, effective, caring and well-led service delivery.
The report highlighted the personal and family-like relationships between Shared Lives carers and the people they support, stating that “the provider and shared lives carers were exceptional in how they listened to and understood people’s needs, views and wishes”.
Inspectors noted the scheme’s commitment to person-centred care, with “people being supported to make decisions and participate in daily life”. They added that the service had strong safeguarding practices, and a culture of continuous improvement.
The report also highlighted “strong evidence of integrated working” with health professionals, proactive safeguarding, and creative approaches to capturing service user feedback.
Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said:
“This rating is a testament to the compassion and dedication of our Shared Lives carers and staff. Tower Hamlets is committed to delivering care that empowers individuals and strengthens our communities.
“I’m proud that our Shared Lives scheme reflects the values of dignity, inclusion and respect that we hold dear.”
Cllr Sabina Akhtar, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, said:
“Shared Lives in a shining example of how care can be delivered in a way that feels like home. This ‘Good’ rating from CQC confirms what we already know – that our carers go above and beyond to support autistic people and people with a learning disability to live fulfilling, independent lives.
“We will continue to build on this success and ensure every resident receives the quality of care they deserve.”
For more information about Shared Lives, visit www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/shared-lives
To read the full report, visit Tower Hamlets Shared Lives Scheme - Care Quality Commission
Posted on Wednesday 27th August 2025