Adult placement schemes
Adult placement schemes (APS) are similar to fostering schemes
but for adults rather than children.
These are locally run schemes that place between one to three
adults with care or support needs with an adult placement carer.
They ensure that these adults are able to enjoy an ordinary and
independent life in the community and share in the family life of a
carer.
Around 70% of adults placed into adult placement schemes have
learning difficulties but some may have physical disabilities,
mental health issues, or drug/alcohol problems.
Older people may also be placed with APS carers. For example,
they may stay with a family for a short period when leaving
hospital before returning home.
Adults who are to be placed in a scheme will have their care
needs assessed by a council and then, will have their needs matched
with a suitable APS carer.
All APS carers are approved and checked regularly by
their local APS.
The schemes are varied and may provide a range of different
services such as:
- Long-term accommodation with care or support in the family home
of an adult placement carer
- Short term breaks for the family carer (the unpaid family
member or friend who usually cares for the person using the AP
services) based in or outside of the home of the adult placement
carer. This is also known as sitting services.
- Day care in the home of the adult placement carer
- Befriending and support to someone living in the community