A lifting block and a method of using it for supporting a load from a first lifting device or sharing the load between the first lifting device and a second lifting device, particularly for use on a vessel and deep water applications, are disclosed. The lifting block, with at least one sheave, has first and second connection elements associated with it. In one arrangement (single fall) a lifting wire or rope is fed around the sheave and terminated in an end stop which also provides the first connection element. When the first lifting device is operated alone, the end stop rests on the block. When the second connection element, secured to the lifting wire or rope of a second lifting device, is joined to the first connection element the load is snared between the two lifting devices which can then be operated in unison to position the load at a required, deeper position.