Homeshare organisations bring together people with spare rooms with people who are happy to chat and lend a hand around the house in return for affordable, sociable accommodation. Together, Householders and Homesharers share home life, time, skills and experience.

It’s given me a new perspective on life and even though I hate to admit it I do need a bit of extra help round the house – I’m not getting any younger!

Householder, London

As a householder, you could need a bit of help around the house or garden, a lift to the shops or just someone to have a meal with and chat to. Homesharers might be new to a city, or studying and looking for a safe and affordable home.

Homeshare with Wendy has been a transformation decision for me. It has enhanced my independence and gave me the opportunity to live in a city that I didn’t think I’d be able to stay in after graduating.

Homesharer, Oxford

Each Homeshare match has the back up of their local Homeshare organisation, which selects and approves them and individually matches their interests, lifestyle and hobbies. Security and household checks are completed and ongoing support provided to both people in the match.

Homesharing is not a rental service so a Homesharer doesn’t pay rent. Instead household bills are split fairly. The Homesharer and Householder will both pay a fee to their local Homeshare organisation to cover the costs of their service and support.

Real Homeshare Story

Anne, 79, a single woman, has a large, comfortable home. She welcomed Julia, 51 to her home over three years ago, they get on really well together as housemates.

Anne’s health is variable, and since February she has been in a care home, recovering strength after a spell in hospital. Her solicitor holds Power of Attorney.

In March, very heavy rainfall caused serious flooding to the house, just as Anne was due to leave the care home. Anne’s friend and Julia dealt with the insurer and tradespeople whilst keeping the solicitor and Anne informed of progress. Anne was very frustrated at being unable to leave the care home. Eventually, after much lobbying by Julia, the solicitor agreed to support Anne’s wish to move to a hotel with a 24 hour carer in an adjoining room, until she could go home.

The house is nearly ready for Anne’s return. She has decided to keep live-in care, though is adamant Julia continues to Homeshare for as long as she wants. Throughout, Julia acted with discretion, professionalism, and deep concern for Anne’s welfare. At

times this has been overwhelming. Throughout, the Homeshare Co-ordinator gave Julia emotional support and guidance to enable Anne’s return home.

They are all looking forward to a big celebration soon!

(Names have been changed.)

Every Homeshare organisation is a member of Homeshare UK, the UK network for Homeshare, supported by Shared Lives Plus, the UK network for shared living.

All of the organisations in our network carefully vet, match and oversee each unique Homeshare arrangement and work within the Homeshare UK Good Practice Guide and Quality Assurance Framework.

Homeshare UK is a vibrant network of likeminded individuals who are passionate about delivering Homeshare in a safe and effective way. We also help anyone who wants to start a Homeshare service with bespoke advice, training and consultancy. We are partners with Homeshare International, supporting a network of professionals worldwide.

Homeshare UK also host Homeshare International the global network for Homeshare practitioners. We draw on expertise and share learning and best practice with experts all over the world.

Find out more about Homeshare at the Homeshare UK website or contact our friendly team:

0151 227 3499

contact@homeshareuk.org

www.homeshareuk.org

HomeshareUKNetwork

@Homeshare_UK

Registered Charity Number (England and Wales): 1095562

Registered Charity Number (Scotland): SC042743

These photos represent real Homeshare connections.

Below: Flo and Alex sharing a cup of tea

To the right: Javeria with Doreen for her 80th birthday celebrattions