This study examines the experiences of older people with high support needs involved in support based on mutuality and reciprocity. It shares the benefits and outcomes achieved for individuals, families, communities and organisations funding and providing this support. The findings are relevant to the future funding and delivery of long-term care, and the transformation of local services. The report highlights how:
• A typology of mutual support describes the options covered; e.g. Shared Lives, Homeshare, cohousing, time banks, mutually supportive relationships, self-help/peer support networks, mutually supportive communities.
• Over 100 people across the UK shared their experiences of and outcomes achieved by these models.
• Such options work best when they are locally focused, personally delivered and connected to other services and networks.
• Significant change is needed in the way that services are commissioned and delivered so that current options for support are widened to include these models.