What is homesharing?
As they get older, many people who live alone want company or extra practical help around the home. Some, struggling by themselves, may feel forced to give up their independence and move into sheltered accommodation.

Homesharing offers another option. The idea is beautifully simple – the householder provides a bedroom and shared facilities free of charge to a reliable younger adult, usually over the age of 35. In exchange, this person will sleep in the home and carry out agreed household tasks.

The homesharer gets a low cost, rent-free room with no bills in a comfortable and safe home-from-home environment. They are happy to give the householder 10 hours of their time each week outside of their normal working hours.

Homesharing is about friendship, mutual respect and support. The costs are minimal. The true benefit of homesharing is security and independence for both householder and sharer.

What do we do?
We meet householders in order to identify their specific needs and preferences, and to determine the suitability of homesharing. We ask them about the kind of help they want, about the accommodation they are offering, and about the kind of person they would prefer to have sharing their home.

We interview potential homesharers by telephone initially, then meet them for an in-depth, face-to-face interview. We ask about their circumstances and requirements. We then take up verbal and written references before introducing them to a householder. The match is based on needs/abilities, personality, and social interests

After being introduced, both parties have time to think about whether or not they would be happy living in the same home. If they decide to share, we draw up a written agreement so that each is clear about what to expect from the other.

We monitor the match to ensure that any problems are dealt with promptly, and to give support to both parties.

Older people willing to share their home in exchange for some help and companionship.

If you live in the Bath area and would like to explore the possibility of homesharing further, please call 01225 22 00 85 for an informal and confidential chat to find out if homesharing could be the solution you are looking for.

Alternatively you can email us at enquiries@homesharewest.org