How to get started

Homeshare: two women laughing

Make an enquiry

Complete our enquiry form to tell us you are interested in Homeshare.

You can apply as either a Householder or a Homesharer.

Complete the form and a member of our team will be in touch with more information.  

Homeshare enquiry form 

Complete an application

We will ask you to provide information about:

  • your needs and circumstances
  • your interests and lifestyle
  • your daily routine
  • what you are looking for from Homeshare

Referring on behalf of someone else

If you're referring someone else to the scheme, please fill in the form and we'll be in touch:

Homeshare referral form

Assessment and interview

A member of the Homeshare team will carry out an assessment to understand your needs and expectations.

This may include:

  • discussing your interests and lifestyle
  • talking about what support may be appropriate
  • explaining what Homeshare can and cannot provide
  • discussing expectations around shared living

Householders will usually receive a home visit. Homesharers will take part in an interview, either online or in person.

Safeguarding and checks

Before any match is made, we complete a range of checks.

These include:

  • identity checks
  • references
  • risk assessments
  • enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks
  • safeguarding and suitability assessments

Matching

We take time to find the right match.

When matching people, we consider:

  • personality and interests
  • daily routines
  • lifestyle and preferences
  • support needs
  • expectations about shared living

Our priority is finding the right match rather than finding a quick match.

Introduction meeting

If we identify a suitable match, we will arrange an introduction meeting.

This gives everyone an opportunity to get to know each other and ask questions.

Family members can attend if they wish.

Trial period

Most Homeshare arrangements begin with a trial period.

This is usually between 2 and 4 weeks and allows everyone to decide whether the arrangement feels right.

Homeshare agreement

Before the arrangement starts, everyone agrees to a written Homeshare agreement.

The agreement includes:

  • the support to be provided
  • house rules
  • expectations and responsibilities
  • review arrangements
  • notice periods

A Homeshare agreement is not a tenancy agreement or employment contract.

Moving in

Once the agreement is in place, the Homesharer moves in.

The arrangement is based on mutual respect, shared living and agreed support.

Ongoing support

The Homeshare team continues to support both parties throughout the arrangement.

This includes:

  • regular check-ins
  • wellbeing reviews
  • support from a dedicated scheme worker
  • help to resolve any concerns or issues
  • adjustments to the arrangement if circumstances change

Reviewing or ending an arrangement

Some Homeshare arrangements last for a few months, while others continue for many years.

Arrangements can be:

  • extended
  • renewed
  • adjusted
  • ended

The Homeshare team will support everyone throughout the process.

Homeshare journey goes from the first enquiry to ongoing support