A new scheme in Penrith, Cumbria will give vulnerable adults the chance to be cared for in a home environment. The Adult Placement Scheme, which is the first of its kind in Cumbria, will mean that approved carers will be able to share their home with someone in need.

Previously older people and adults with learning difficulties, physical disabilities or mental health problems received care in day centres or residential homes. Now they will be able to receive day support, short breaks and long-term placements in a home environment.

Adults and their families who choose the new scheme will have their care needs assessed by Cumbria Adult Social Care before being matched with a suitable Adult Placement Scheme carer.

County councillor Oliver Pearson, the cabinet member responsible for adult social care, says the scheme will be of great benefit. He said: “This service provides a flexible package of care to people in both long and short-term placements.”

Jill Stannard, Cumbria County Council’s director of adult social care, said: “Both the families and the loved ones they care for need this type of flexible support. Great care is taken in matching each service user with the most appropriate carer.”

The scheme will offer a variety of different options including long-term placements where a person will move into a carer’s home and live there as part of the family, short-term placements for up to six months and respite placements offering regular short breaks.

The scheme is organised by Cumbria Adult Social Care in partnership with the national charity Avalon.