If you are looking for affordable accommodation in London and have a genuine interest in helping older people or people with disabilities, then becoming a homesharer could be right up your street.

Homesharers come from all walks of life and from many different backgrounds. Many have jobs in public sector work, for example in health and social services or education, but homesharers are also students, lawyers, chefs, people in the media, secretaries and more.

There are no special requirements, but you must be mature in your outlook and able to commit to providing a certain amount of practical support to the householder you are matched with. In return you are provided with your own room in the householder’s home and a share of the home's facilities.

What you get out of it

Homesharing can be particularly beneficial to those working or studying in a new area and can offer:

• Inexpensive housing – typically you can save around £200–£350 a month compared with typical London rental costs.
• Companionship – this can be invaluable if you are starting out on your own in a new area.
• The chance to live in a comfortable, homely environment with access to home facilities.

What to expect

The assistance and companionship you provide as a homesharer is typically spread across weekday evenings and a little at the weekend. It may involve helping prepare meals, sharing meals, light housework and shopping. We do not ask you to help with personal care.

During the day you continue with your own affairs, whether this is working or studying. You then return to be present in the home overnight – this gives the householder valuable added security and peace of mind.

How we set up your homeshare

• Once you have contacted us to let us know you are interested in becoming a homesharer our friendly team will talk to you by phone to find out your expectations and requirements.
  
  
• If we think that Homeshare will suit you, you will be invited for a face to face interview with the team.
  
  
• We also carry out other selection procedures, including a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check and personally checking the references you provide us with. These checks are necessary to protect the interests of the householders.
  
  
• Once all checks are completed to everyone’s satisfaction, we will arrange to introduce you to a potential householder.

All being well it generally takes about a month to arrange a match. We will take into consideration your preferred area although we cannot guarantee to find you a place in a specific area.

Ongoing support

What sets us apart from other similar schemes is our commitment to you. Once we have placed you in your homeshare we will be constantly available to provide support, information and practical help. We are always on the end of the phone and you will never be left feeling on your own.

If your homeshare comes to an end

As a valued volunteer, when one placement comes to an end we will be happy to find you another if you wish to continue homesharing.