This isn’t just work — it’s a mission. And I’m proud of It.

Every day, I get to witness something powerful — older people who’ve been in need of companionship and friendship for far too long, suddenly light up again because someone took the time to sit with them, share a meal, or simply be there.

I’ve seen firsthand the quiet toll that loneliness takes — not just on someone’s emotional wellbeing, but on their confidence, their daily routines, their sense of purpose. It’s something many of us don’t notice until it’s someone we love. Until a parent, grandparent, or neighbour begins to withdraw, slowly losing their spark. And it’s not rare. It’s not even unusual. In the UK today, over 1.4 million older people say they feel lonely often. That’s not just a sad statistic — that’s real people, in our communities, behind closed doors, day after day.

Often, families who were worrying from a distance finally breathe easier knowing their loved one isn’t alone. Young people struggling to afford safe accommodation finally feel like they belong somewhere. I’ve built something that’s changing lives. That’s the Homeshare model working — and it’s working because I’ve poured everything I’ve got into making it happen.

I started Homeshare North East because I wanted to create more than just a service. I wanted to build a movement — one that reconnects generations, reimagines how we live and support one another, and restores something that has quietly slipped away in modern life: everyday companionship.

Intergenerational living is not a new idea. For generations, families and communities lived together, supported one another, and shared skills, stories, and meals across age groups. Somewhere along the way, that shifted. But I believe it’s something we can bring back — in a way that fits today’s world.

I’ve built this service from the ground up.
I’ve matched people who’ve become like family.
I’ve worked with GPs, carers, community leaders, and everyday families who were at a loss for what to do next.

And every time someone tells me:

• “My Mum hasn’t smiled like this in months.”

• “We feel so reassured knowing someone is in the house with Dad.”

• “It’s not just about the support — it’s the companionship that’s made all the difference.”
  

It’s real, human connection. It’s purpose. It’s security. It’s life changing.

Through Homeshare North East, I’ve given older people back something priceless:

• Confidence in their own home.

• A sense of purpose, routine, and belonging.

• Someone to share a cup of tea, a TV show, or a laugh with.
  

Homeshare gives older people the chance to stay in the home they love, while welcoming someone into their life who brings warmth, conversation, and a helping hand. It also gives younger people an affordable place to live and a chance to learn from someone with years of experience and wisdom. It’s a beautiful exchange — built on trust, respect, and mutual benefit.

“Ellie has been a breath of fresh air for my Mum. She’s like a member of our family now.”
That’s what this is about. Real human connection. Real impact.

And it’s not just families seeing it.
GPs, social prescribers, Age UK leaders, council heads — they’re all paying attention.
Because this works.

If you know someone living alone who deserves more than loneliness…
If you want to help an older loved one feel safer, happier, and less isolated…
Or if you just want to be part of something that brings light back into people’s lives…

To me, nobody deserves to feel forgotten. Nobody should feel like their best years are behind them or that they have nothing left to give. And nobody — of any age — should feel completely alone.

That’s why I do what I do. And it’s why I’ll keep shouting about Homeshare from the rooftops — because I’ve seen the difference it makes, and I know how many people are still waiting for that kind of connection.

I’m here. Homeshare North East is here.

We’re creating community, connection, and care — one home at a time.

A home is more than just four walls… it’s the people inside it.