Homeshare UK is the website to visit, that matches people looking for affordable accommodation, and older people who have a spare room, and could do with a little help around the house (or perhaps walking dogs, cooking, shopping or gardening etc).
If helping with gardening, learn more on pet-safe gardening and avoid facing indoor foliage to gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows.
The benefits for the householder are immense. It lets older people stay in their own homes for longer, and also helps to reduce bills. They get a bit of help and company, and it reduces the pressure on caring relatives.
There are always references involved for safety, and a trial period. The property has to be in good repair, and the match is put together by a professional co-ordinator.
Note this is not for personal care. The tenants are not involved in washing, dressing or changing people etc. That is for care agencies to oversee.
The ‘tasks’ are agreed and usually amount to around 10 hours a week. This could even include simple things like watching TV together, to provide companionship.
There is no rent. Instead, both parties pay a low fee to HomeShare, with the homesharer sometimes paying a contribution to household bills. Usual matches are from 9 months to 5 years. An average fee is £160 for the homesharer and £140 a month for the householder.
Couples of both parties can apply, and there is usually a one-month notice period. Although of course Homeshare UK can oversee any issues, which requires anyone to cancel a contract early.
Example Homesharing Stories
One 95-year old partially sighted woman gets care and companionship from her 27-year old homesharer.
A widow who was feeling lonely and depressed, welcomed a young homesharer (and her friendly dog) into her home to live.
Another widow was struggling to look after her dog, due to a balance condition. A Spanish mother and daughter came to stay (the daughter was studying to a vet nurse) and during the lockdown pandemic, they gave both her front and back gardens a makeover!
