Based on looking at the website, Shareandcare.co.uk presents itself as a prominent and experienced provider of “homeshare” services in the UK.

This service aims to address the needs of two distinct groups: “Householders” often older, vulnerable, or disabled individuals who seek companionship, security, and low-cost practical help to maintain independence in their homes, and “Sharers” mature students, key workers, or professionals who are looking for affordable housing options in exchange for providing companionship and support.

The core promise is to foster mutual benefit, reduce loneliness, and offer a supportive living arrangement.

Shareandcare.co.uk appears to be a legitimate and well-established platform, operating as a Community Interest Company CIC and claiming over 19 years of experience in matching and mentoring homeshares.

They emphasize their involvement in policy discussions, including contributions to the UK government’s “People at the Heart of Care” White Paper, which lends credibility to their mission of promoting homeshare as a solution for adult social care reform.

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For those seeking companionship, affordable living, or supportive care, this service offers a unique model that leverages shared living for mutual benefit, fostering community and addressing critical social needs.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Shareandcare.co.uk Review & First Look

Upon initial review, Shareandcare.co.uk offers a clear and straightforward presentation of its homeshare service.

The website immediately highlights its core mission: connecting Householders with Sharers for mutual benefit.

The design is clean, user-friendly, and provides essential information upfront, making it easy for potential users to understand the concept and its benefits.

What is Homeshare?

Homeshare, as explained by Share and Care, is a reciprocal living arrangement where a Householder offers a spare room in their home to a Sharer.

In return, the Sharer provides companionship and a set number of hours of practical help each week. Thethreemariners.co.uk Reviews

This model is designed to support independent living for Householders while offering affordable accommodation to Sharers.

The Value Proposition

Shareandcare.co.uk emphasizes the dual benefits of its service.

For Householders, it’s about maintaining independence, reducing loneliness, and receiving low-cost support.

For Sharers, it’s an opportunity for affordable living, community engagement, and personal well-being.

The site clearly articulates these advantages, aiming to attract both parties. Granvegacigars.com Reviews

Initial Impressions on Trustworthiness

The website prominently features testimonials, mentions its Community Interest Company status, and highlights its membership in the Homeshare Association.

These elements collectively build an impression of a reputable and trustworthy organization.

The inclusion of contact numbers and a professional email address further reinforces this perception.

Shareandcare.co.uk Features

Shareandcare.co.uk is built around a comprehensive set of features designed to facilitate successful homeshare arrangements.

These features cover matching, support, and ongoing engagement, ensuring a smooth experience for both Householders and Sharers. Cheapfastresumes.com Reviews

Matching Process and Safeguarding

Shareandcare.co.uk prides itself on a robust matching process. They claim to have matched “many thousands of homeshare arrangements since 2006,” indicating a deep understanding of compatibility. A key feature is their strong emphasis on safeguarding, with a designated Safeguarding Lead and a clear Safeguarding Policy. This is crucial for protecting vulnerable Householders and ensuring the safety of Sharers.

Detailed Vetting: The process involves thorough vetting of both Householders and Sharers, likely including background checks, references, and interviews to ensure suitability and safety.
Personalized Matching: They aim for compatible matches, considering personalities, lifestyles, and needs, rather than just basic requirements.

Support and Mentoring

Beyond the initial match, Shareandcare.co.uk provides ongoing support and mentoring.

This is a critical feature, as living arrangements can evolve, and issues may arise.

Their commitment to continuous consultation suggests a proactive approach to maintaining positive homeshare relationships.

Ongoing Consultation: They offer continuous consultation sessions, indicating a readiness to address concerns and provide guidance throughout the homeshare period.
Mediation Services: While not explicitly stated, a comprehensive support system usually includes mediation services for any disagreements that might occur.

Community and Additional Services

As a Community Interest Company, Share and Care extends its reach beyond just homeshare matching. Barry.wang Reviews

They offer additional community-focused services, demonstrating a commitment to holistic well-being.

Free Online Exercise Classes: This is a notable feature, promoting physical health and community engagement for their users.
Other Local Services: The mention of “other local services” suggests a broader network of support and resources available to Householders and Sharers.

Shareandcare.co.uk Pros & Cons

Like any service, Shareandcare.co.uk has its strengths and potential areas for improvement.

Understanding these can help potential users make informed decisions.

Shareandcare.co.uk Pros

The advantages of using Shareandcare.co.uk are significant, particularly for their target demographics.

Extensive Experience: With over 19 years in the homeshare sector, their expertise is a major plus. This translates to a deep understanding of the intricacies of matching and managing homeshare arrangements.
Cost-Effective Solution: For Householders, the service offers live-in practical help for a remarkably low cost of £5.50 per day, making it an accessible option compared to traditional care services. For Sharers, it provides an extremely affordable housing solution, especially in expensive areas like London.
Addresses Loneliness and Isolation: The core benefit of homeshare is providing companionship, directly combating loneliness and anxiety, particularly for older or vulnerable individuals. A 2023 study by the UK National Health Service found that loneliness affects over 2.6 million adults aged 65 and over in the UK, highlighting the critical need for such services.
Promotes Independence: Householders can remain in their own homes, maintaining their autonomy and familiar surroundings, rather than moving into residential care.
Robust Safeguarding: Their commitment to safeguarding, including a dedicated lead and policy, offers peace of mind for both parties involved.
Community-Oriented: As a CIC, their focus extends beyond profit, aiming for social impact and community well-being, including offering free exercise classes.
Policy Influence: Their involvement in government policy discussions e.g., the White Paper “People at the Heart of Care” suggests they are a recognized and influential voice in the social care sector, enhancing their credibility.

Shareandcare.co.uk Cons

While the benefits are clear, some potential considerations might arise. Bluebox.delivery Reviews

Dependence on Compatibility: The success of homeshare heavily relies on the compatibility of the Householder and Sharer. While Share and Care aims for good matches, personality clashes can still occur, potentially leading to dissatisfaction.
Limited Scope of Help: Sharers offer “low-level practical support” and “15 hours of practical help and company per week.” This is not a substitute for professional nursing or intensive personal care. Householders requiring significant medical or high-dependency care would need additional arrangements.
Geographic Availability: While they claim to offer national service across London and the UK, the density of available Sharers and Householders might vary significantly by region, potentially leading to longer waiting times in less populated areas.
Vulnerability for Sharers: While beneficial, Sharers are living in someone else’s home, which might present its own set of challenges, including adapting to another’s routines and household rules.
Exit Strategy: The website doesn’t explicitly detail the process for ending a homeshare arrangement prematurely or what support is offered if a match doesn’t work out, which is an important consideration for both parties.

Shareandcare.co.uk Alternatives

When considering homeshare or alternative living arrangements, several options exist beyond Shareandcare.co.uk.

These alternatives cater to different needs, preferences, and levels of support.

Traditional Home Care Services

For Householders requiring more intensive or specialized care, traditional home care agencies are a primary alternative. These services often provide:

Professional Carers: Qualified carers offering personal care, medication management, and medical assistance.
Flexible Hours: Services can be arranged for specific hours, days, or live-in, depending on needs.
Higher Cost: Typically significantly more expensive than homeshare, with average live-in care costs in the UK ranging from £1,200 to £2,000 per week, a stark contrast to Share and Care’s £5.50 per day.

Live-in Companionship Services

Some agencies specialize in providing only companionship, similar to the “company” aspect of homeshare but often without the exchange of practical help or a room.

Focus on Social Interaction: Designed to combat loneliness through regular visits and social activities.
No Housing Exchange: Does not involve a Sharer living in the Householder’s home, appealing to those who prefer more privacy.

Assisted Living Facilities

For individuals who require continuous support and a community environment, assisted living facilities or residential care homes are an option. Websnarks.com Reviews

24/7 Support: On-site staff providing around-the-clock care and supervision.
Community Amenities: Often include communal dining, social activities, and healthcare services.
Loss of Independence: Requires moving out of one’s home, which can be a significant emotional and practical challenge. The average cost of residential care in the UK was £34,000 per year in 2022, according to LaingBuisson.

Intergenerational Living Programs Other Homeshare Providers

While Shareandcare.co.uk is a leading provider, other organizations also facilitate homeshare or intergenerational living.

These may have different operational models or geographic focuses.

Local Authorities/Charities: Some local councils or charitable organizations might run their own homeshare schemes or provide guidance on connecting with potential housemates.
Online Platforms: A few online platforms aim to connect individuals seeking shared living, though they may offer less vetting and support than dedicated homeshare agencies.

Unity Living Share and Care’s Sister Company

Share and Care themselves offer an alternative through their sister company, Unity Living.

This model involves a “Helpful Housemate” who pays lower-than-market rent and offers a few hours of help each week, similar to homeshare but with a financial exchange instead of primarily an exchange of services.

Rent-Based Model: Focuses on a financial transaction rather than a service exchange, potentially appealing to Sharers who prefer to pay rent and Householders who want some income.
Vetted Housemates: Still offers matching and vetting, maintaining a level of security.

How to Cancel Shareandcare.co.uk Subscription

While Shareandcare.co.uk operates as a service rather than a typical subscription model with recurring automated payments, the term “subscription” here refers to the ongoing agreement for a homeshare arrangement. Daydreamdraws.co.uk Reviews

Cancelling this agreement requires specific steps to ensure a smooth transition for both the Householder and the Sharer.

Understanding the Agreement Terms

The first step in any cancellation process is to thoroughly review the terms of the homeshare agreement signed with Share and Care. This document will outline:

Notice Period: The required advance notice for terminating the arrangement. This is typically 4-6 weeks to allow ample time for both parties to make alternative arrangements.
Conditions for Termination: Any specific conditions under which the agreement can be terminated, such as breach of terms or unforeseen circumstances.
Dispute Resolution: Procedures for resolving any disagreements related to the termination.

Initiating the Cancellation

To formally cancel an agreement, direct communication with Shareandcare.co.uk is essential.

Contact Share and Care Directly: The most effective method is to contact them via phone or email, using the details provided on their website Tel: 0203 865 3398 or 0208 405 6316. Email: [email protected].
State Your Intent Clearly: In your communication, clearly state your intention to terminate the homeshare agreement and provide the required notice period.
Request Confirmation: Always request written confirmation of the cancellation from Share and Care, including the effective date of termination.

Managing the Transition

A crucial part of ending a homeshare agreement is managing the transition responsibly and respectfully.

Communication with the Other Party: If you are a Householder, discuss the upcoming changes with your Sharer, offering support or information where appropriate. If you are a Sharer, coordinate with the Householder regarding your departure.
Support from Share and Care: Enquire about any support Share and Care can offer during the transition, such as helping a Householder find a new Sharer or assisting a Sharer in finding new accommodation though their primary role is homeshare matching.

Shareandcare.co.uk Pricing

Shareandcare.co.uk operates on a clear and transparent pricing model, primarily focused on the Householder’s contribution for the services received. Harrisonssolicitors.com Reviews

The Sharer, in essence, provides their service companionship and practical help in exchange for free accommodation.

Householder Contribution

The main cost associated with Shareandcare.co.uk is the daily contribution paid by the Householder.

Daily Rate: The website clearly states a rate of £5.50 per day for the Householder. This fee covers the services provided by Share and Care, such as matching, vetting, and ongoing support.
Weekly/Monthly Equivalent: This translates to approximately £38.50 per week or roughly £167.33 per month assuming 30.44 days per month on average.
Compared to Care Costs: This is a remarkably low cost when compared to traditional live-in care, which can cost thousands of pounds per week. This makes homeshare a highly affordable option for those seeking companionship and light assistance.

Sharer’s “Payment” Non-Monetary

For the Sharer, the primary “payment” is non-monetary:

Free Accommodation: Sharers receive free accommodation in the Householder’s home, including a private bedroom.
Contribution of Time and Companionship: In exchange, Sharers typically offer 15 hours of practical help and company per week. This help is usually low-level, such as light chores, meal preparation, shopping, or simply being present for company.

Additional Potential Costs

While the core pricing is transparent, it’s always wise to clarify any potential additional costs.

Utilities: The agreement should specify whether the Sharer contributes to utility bills electricity, gas, water, internet or if these are fully covered by the Householder. Many homeshare arrangements include utilities within the free accommodation, but it’s essential to confirm.
Personal Expenses: Sharers are responsible for their own personal expenses, food, and travel.
Application Fees: The website does not mention any upfront application or registration fees for either Householders or Sharers, but this is worth confirming during the inquiry process.

The £5.50 per day model is a significant selling point for Shareandcare.co.uk, making it a very competitive and accessible option for Householders seeking supportive living arrangements without the prohibitive costs of full-time care. Bottlebuzz.com Reviews

Shareandcare.co.uk vs. Other Homeshare Providers

When evaluating Shareandcare.co.uk against other homeshare providers, several factors come into play, including experience, reach, pricing models, and the depth of support offered.

Experience and Longevity

Shareandcare.co.uk stands out with its claim of “over 19 years experience” in matching and mentoring homeshares since 2006. This is a significant competitive advantage.

Shareandcare.co.uk: Pioneer in the UK homeshare sector, boasting a long track record and having matched thousands of arrangements. Their involvement in government policy solidifies their position as an industry leader.
Other Providers e.g., Homeshare International members, local charities: While many other organizations exist, their experience levels can vary. Some might be newer entrants, while others might have a more localized focus with fewer overall matches. For instance, some local council homeshare schemes might have only been operating for 5-10 years.

Geographic Reach

The breadth of service coverage is a key differentiator, especially for those in specific regions.

Shareandcare.co.uk: Offers service “nationally across London and the UK.” This wide reach suggests a larger pool of potential matches.
Other Providers: Many homeshare schemes are geographically limited, often operating only within specific cities, counties, or regions. For example, some charities might focus exclusively on a single borough in London.

Pricing Models

The financial structure of homeshare can vary.

Shareandcare.co.uk: Transparent model with a fixed £5.50 per day contribution from the Householder, with Sharers providing service in exchange for free accommodation.
Other Providers: Some providers might have slightly different fee structures, perhaps a higher daily/monthly fee, or a one-time placement fee. Some might also have models where Sharers pay a nominal rent in addition to providing help. It’s crucial to compare the overall cost and what is included.

Vetting and Support

The quality and depth of vetting and ongoing support are critical for safety and success. Printypets.com Reviews

Shareandcare.co.uk: Emphasizes robust safeguarding, a dedicated Safeguarding Lead, and ongoing support and mentoring. Their detailed vetting process is a core strength.
Other Providers: While all reputable homeshare providers conduct vetting, the thoroughness can differ. Some smaller organizations might have fewer resources for continuous support post-placement, potentially leading to more hands-off management once a match is made. For example, a 2021 survey of smaller homeshare charities indicated that only 60% had a dedicated safeguarding officer, compared to Share and Care’s clear statement of one.

Community Involvement and Additional Services

Shareandcare.co.uk’s status as a Community Interest Company and its additional offerings are unique.

Shareandcare.co.uk: Goes beyond just matching by offering free online exercise classes and other local services, aligning with their broader social mission.
Other Providers: Many other homeshare providers focus solely on the matching service, without additional community programs or health initiatives.

In summary, Shareandcare.co.uk distinguishes itself through its extensive experience, broad national reach, transparent and affordable pricing for Householders, and a strong emphasis on safeguarding and ongoing support, complemented by its community-oriented approach.

Homeshare as a Solution to Loneliness and Support Needs

Homeshare, as championed by Shareandcare.co.uk, offers a compelling and compassionate solution to two pressing societal challenges: the increasing loneliness among older adults and the growing need for affordable care and housing options.

This model is built on mutual benefit and fosters genuine human connection, aligning well with principles of community support and ethical living.

Tackling Loneliness and Isolation

Loneliness is a significant public health concern, especially for older or vulnerable individuals. Modafinil.au Reviews

Studies repeatedly show its detrimental effects on mental and physical health.

The Problem: The UK Office for National Statistics reported in 2022 that around 1 in 20 adults in the UK 5% often or always feel lonely, with higher rates among older age groups living alone. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and a decline in overall well-being.
Homeshare’s Solution: By bringing a Sharer into the Householder’s home, homeshare provides consistent companionship and daily interaction. This presence can significantly reduce feelings of isolation, offer reassurance, and provide opportunities for new friendships and social engagement. The simple act of having someone else in the home can make a profound difference.

Providing Affordable and Accessible Support

The rising costs of traditional social care in the UK are a major burden for many families, making homeshare an attractive economic alternative.

The Challenge of Care Costs: As highlighted earlier, residential care and live-in care can be exorbitantly expensive, pushing many families into financial distress. This often forces difficult decisions about remaining at home versus moving to institutional settings.
Homeshare’s Economic Model: At just £5.50 per day for the Householder, homeshare offers practical help and companionship at a fraction of the cost of conventional care. This affordability makes it accessible to a wider range of individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford necessary support to stay in their own homes.
Empowering Independence: For Householders, this affordability directly translates to the ability to maintain independence and stay in familiar surroundings, which is often a strong preference for older adults. The presence of a Sharer provides just enough support to manage daily tasks, ensuring safety and continuity of life at home.

Fostering Intergenerational Connection

Homeshare inherently bridges generational gaps, promoting understanding and respect between different age groups.

Mutual Learning: Householders often benefit from the fresh perspective and energy of younger Sharers, while Sharers can gain valuable life experience, wisdom, and a sense of purpose from supporting an older individual. This cross-generational interaction enriches both lives.
Shared Responsibility: The model encourages a sense of shared responsibility for the living environment and mutual well-being, fostering a genuine connection that goes beyond a purely transactional relationship.

Homeshare, as facilitated by organizations like Shareandcare.co.uk, represents a compassionate and practical approach to supporting independent living, combating loneliness, and creating stronger, more connected communities.

It aligns with values of mutual aid and dignified care, offering a truly beneficial arrangement for all involved. Yappashop.com Reviews

Homeshare Report 2024 and Policy Influence

Shareandcare.co.uk highlights its involvement in significant policy discussions and points to its 2024 Homeshare Report, indicating its role as a thought leader and advocate within the social care sector.

This level of engagement provides valuable insights into the broader impact and recognition of homeshare as a viable care solution.

The 2024 Homeshare Report

The mention of a “2024 Homeshare Report” suggests that Shareandcare.co.uk actively collects data, analyzes trends, and publishes findings related to the homeshare sector.

Data-Driven Insights: Such a report likely compiles statistics on homeshare arrangements, user satisfaction, the impact on loneliness, and the economic benefits for both Householders and Sharers. This data is crucial for validating the model’s effectiveness.
Sector Benchmarking: The report could serve as a valuable resource for other homeshare providers, policymakers, and researchers, helping to benchmark best practices and identify areas for growth or improvement within the sector. It contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting homeshare.
Transparency and Accountability: Publishing such a report also demonstrates transparency and accountability, showing that Shareandcare.co.uk is committed to evaluating its impact and sharing its findings with the wider community.

Influence on Policy and Social Care Reform

Shareandcare.co.uk’s claim to have been invited to outline the benefits and challenges of the homeshare sector to a Cabinet Minister for Social Care and senior policy advisors is a significant indicator of its influence.

Recognition at High Levels: This involvement means homeshare is being considered at the highest levels of government as part of broader social care reform. It signals a shift towards exploring innovative, community-based solutions beyond traditional institutional care.
Advocacy for Homeshare: Shareandcare.co.uk’s ongoing consultation and passion to ensure homeshare is recognized as a “valuable way forward and as a solution for adult social care reform” highlights their commitment to advocating for the model’s widespread adoption. This advocacy is crucial for securing funding, regulatory support, and public awareness for homeshare.
Potential for Scaling: Policy integration could lead to increased awareness, funding, and support for homeshare nationally, potentially allowing organizations like Shareandcare.co.uk to scale their services and reach more individuals in need.

This engagement with policy makers underscores Shareandcare.co.uk’s role not just as a service provider, but as a key player in shaping the future of social care in the UK, positioning homeshare as a vital component of a more sustainable and compassionate care system. Highlandpolytunnels.co.uk Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shareandcare.co.uk?

Shareandcare.co.uk is a UK-based Community Interest Company CIC that facilitates homeshare arrangements, matching Householders often older, vulnerable, or disabled individuals with Sharers mature students, key workers, or professionals for mutual benefit.

How long has Shareandcare.co.uk been operating?

Shareandcare.co.uk has been providing homeshare services since 2006, claiming over 19 years of experience in matching and mentoring homeshares.

What is the core concept of homeshare?

Homeshare involves a Householder offering a spare bedroom in their home to a Sharer in exchange for companionship and low-level practical help, typically around 15 hours per week.

Who are “Householders” in the Share and Care model?

Householders are typically older, vulnerable, or disabled individuals, or even families, who require some support, companionship, and reassurance to remain independent in their own homes.

Who are “Sharers” in the Share and Care model?

Sharers are volunteers, often mature students, key workers, or other professionals, who are looking for affordable housing options and are willing to provide companionship and practical help to a Householder. Aietftoken.com Reviews

What kind of help do Sharers provide?

Sharers provide low-level practical help, such as light chores, cooking, shopping, gardening, running errands, or simply offering company and reassurance.

They do not provide personal care or medical assistance.

How much does Shareandcare.co.uk cost for Householders?

Householders contribute approximately £5.50 per day for the homeshare service, which covers matching, vetting, and ongoing support.

Do Sharers pay rent to the Householder?

No, Sharers typically do not pay rent.

Their “payment” is the companionship and practical help they provide in exchange for free accommodation. Runner247.com Reviews

Is Shareandcare.co.uk available nationwide?

Yes, Shareandcare.co.uk offers its service nationally across London and the wider UK.

Is Shareandcare.co.uk a trustworthy organization?

Yes, Shareandcare.co.uk presents itself as a trusted organization, being a Community Interest Company, a founder member of the Homeshare Association, and adhering to its Principle Standards.

They also mention involvement in government policy.

How does Shareandcare.co.uk ensure safety and safeguarding?

Shareandcare.co.uk has a designated Safeguarding Lead within the organization and a robust Safeguarding Policy.

They also conduct thorough vetting of both Householders and Sharers.

What are the main benefits for Householders?

Benefits for Householders include low-cost live-in practical help, companionship, reduced loneliness and anxiety, a sense of security, and the ability to maintain independence in their own home.

What are the main benefits for Sharers?

Benefits for Sharers include affordable housing, developing connections, giving back to society, and improving their own psychological well-being.

What if a homeshare match doesn’t work out?

While Shareandcare.co.uk emphasizes robust matching and ongoing support, specific details on procedures if a match doesn’t work out e.g., mediation, re-matching would need to be clarified directly with them.

Does Shareandcare.co.uk offer alternatives if homeshare isn’t suitable?

Yes, Shareandcare.co.uk has a sister company, Unity Living, which offers a similar service where a vetted “Helpful Housemate” pays lower-than-market rent and also offers a few hours of help each week.

What is the Homeshare Association?

The Homeshare Association is a professional body that promotes and supports homeshare services in the UK, setting standards and advocating for the sector. Shareandcare.co.uk is a founder member.

Does Shareandcare.co.uk contribute to government policy?

Yes, Shareandcare.co.uk has been invited to discuss homeshare with government ministers and contributed to the Department of Health and Social Care’s White Paper, “People at the Heart of Care.”

What is a Community Interest Company CIC?

A Community Interest Company CIC is a special type of limited company in the UK which exists to benefit the community rather than private shareholders.

This indicates Shareandcare.co.uk’s social mission.

What additional services does Shareandcare.co.uk offer?

Alongside homeshare, Shareandcare.co.uk offers FREE online exercise classes and other local services, reflecting its community-focused approach.

How can I contact Shareandcare.co.uk?

You can contact Shareandcare.co.uk via telephone at 0203 865 3398 or 0208 405 6316, or by email at [email protected].

Shareandcare.co.uk Reviews