Staying independent shouldn’t mean staying alone
In today’s world, more and more older people in the UK are living alone and for many, it’s not by choice.
9/5/20251 min read


The cost of living is rising. Access to care and support is becoming more stretched. And loneliness? It’s becoming a public health crisis. According to Age UK, over 1.4 million older people often feel lonely, with many going days or even weeks without meaningful conversation.
But what if there was a solution that could ease the pressure, not just on older people, but on families, communities, and services too?
That’s where Homeshare comes in.
At Homeshare North East, we match older adults who have a spare room and would benefit from some extra company and low-level support, with carefully vetted individuals who are looking for affordable accommodation.
In return for a room in the home, the Homesharer offers around 10 hours a week of help - this might include:
Cooking and sharing meals
Light household tasks
Help with shopping or using technology
Most importantly, companionship
It’s not care. It’s not a rental. It’s a mutual arrangement that’s been used successfully across the UK and internationally for over 40 years.
And in a time where social isolation is rising, Homeshare offers something powerful. Connection. Safety. Peace of mind.
Why it matters now
With adult children often living far from their parents, and formal care services stretched thin, Homeshare provides a bridge, giving older people a way to stay in their homes longer, with company and support that feels personal and consistent.
It also helps:
Reduce GP visits and hospital admissions related to isolation and falls
Ease pressure on carers and family members
Offer a truly affordable alternative to more formal care options
Could Homeshare help you or someone you know?
If you’re an older adult living alone, or someone who supports one, whether you’re a family member, a professional, or a concerned friend, we’d love to talk.
Sometimes, all it takes is a shared meal, a helping hand, and someone to say “How was your day?”
That’s what Homeshare brings into the home.