Supportmatch Homeshare connects older adults needing affordable live-in support (the Householder) with professionals seeking cost-effective accommodation (the Homesharer).
They provide companionship and practical support, enhancing quality of life.
Cornwall Council have partnered with Supportmatch Homeshare, to support people to find an affordable home, and help older people maintain their independence.
Homeshare is about people helping each other and creating meaningful relationships.
What is the exchange between the two parties?
- The Householder offers a spare room and shared use of household facilities (e.g., bathroom, kitchen).
- The Homesharer provides 10 hours of light housework and general support per week such as cooking and laundry. There is an additional 5 hours of companionship, and overnight presence for added reassurance. (There is no personal care involved)
Who can it help?
For Homesharers - this scheme could help a person who
- is single, (although we can occasionally accept couples)
- needed to find a home,
- Is physically and mentally able to be a Homesharer,
- has some spare time to offer to help with household tasks, and
- could consider sharing a home with someone needing practical support and companionship.
For Householders - it could help a person who:
- has a spare room
- is still independent but starting to struggle with daily household tasks
- does not have overnight care needs, and either
- does not require help with personal care, or
- has a care package in place but experiences gaps in support (e.g., carers only provide personal care, leaving household tasks, shopping, and companionship unaddressed).
Tasks the Homesharer assist with
- light cleaning and tidying up
- meal preparation and cooking on some days
- shopping
- administrative tasks
- attending appointments and handling general household needs (e.g., making phone calls)
- overnight presence for reassurance
Homesharers do not provide:
- personal care (e.g., washing, dressing, toileting)
- medical care (e.g., administering medication, handling medical needs)
- regular overnight care (except in emergency situations)
If you’d like to find out more
- Supportmatch, phone 02036 336 066 or email: Info@supportmatch.co.uk
- Read the answers to Homeshare's frequently asked questions
See our match success stories
- Homeshare Sylvia and Shivani's story
- Homeshare Julia, Dave and Chloe's story
- Homeshare Kevin and Jacks story
Supportmatch can provide more information and answer any questions. Feel free to include a family member or friend in any conversations.
Fees
There are some fees payable to Supportmatch Homeshare to take part in this scheme.
- £150/m for the Householders, payable to Supportmatch Homeshare
- £190/m for the Homesharer, payable to Supportmatch Homeshare
Householders could use a Direct Payment to cover the cost of their fee, and use the support to supplement their current care plan.