The Homeshare scheme is a simple way for people to help each other out – it matches people who need help at home with those who need somewhere to live and can help in return.
Someone who has a spare room but needs help with everyday living can provide accommodation for a person who needs somewhere to live but might not be able to afford it, in exchange for up to 10 hours of help per week, with things like cooking and cleaning.
Homeshare calls these roles ‘householders' and ‘homesharers' – and our Homeshare Coordinator carefully matches the two. As part of the process, we make background checks and interview both parties.
Homesharing is about friendship, mutual respect and support. The costs are minimal, and both parties gain security and independence.
Homesharers will not have to provide personal care such as help with getting washed and dressed.
Are you a householder?
The householder can be anyone who needs practical support in order to stay living safely and independently at home – such as an older person, or someone with a physical or learning disability.
Are you a homesharer?
Homesharers can be anyone who needs to save money, is looking for companionship or a safe home environment, or simply travelling. For example, you could be:
- a student, new to leaving home and wanting a safe environment
- a mature student looking for an affordable way to study
- relocating from another area, perhaps temporarily
- new to this country and want to find your feet before getting your own home.
Enquiries and how to register
If you think you'd like to join the Homeshare scheme, and add your name to our list of potential matches, please simply let us know and we'll take it from there:
Background to the scheme
There are other Homeshare schemes around the UK, and new schemes benefit from the good practice guides which have been developed. These are published by NAAPS, and we are grateful for their advice and support in setting up the scheme here.
East Sussex County Council