Supporting Independent Living and Community Wellbeing

Local authorities are increasingly focused on preventative approaches that help residents remain independent, safe and supported in their own homes. Challenges such as loneliness, reduced confidence at home and a lack of day-to-day support can often lead to increased demand on services.

Homeshare offers a practical, community-based solution. The UK-wide scheme matches older people who have a spare room with carefully vetted younger people who provide companionship and around 10 hours of light practical help each week, in exchange for affordable accommodation.

This helps older residents remain independent at home, while also creating affordable housing opportunities for younger people. Learn more about how Homeshare works →

Why Local Authorities work with Homeshare

Homeshare supports local authorities in delivering preventative, community-based services that improve wellbeing and reduce pressure on health and social care systems.

It can contribute to:

• reducing loneliness and social isolation
• supporting residents to remain in their own homes
• easing pressure on adult social care services
• providing reassurance to families
• supporting community wellbeing and resilience
• offering alternative housing solutions

Homeshare is not a replacement for care services, but it can provide early, preventative support that helps avoid escalation.

When Homeshare may be a Suitable Option

Homeshare may work well where a resident:

• lives alone and feels isolated
• would benefit from companionship and reassurance
• wants to remain living independently
• has a spare room available
• needs light practical help rather than formal care

It can be particularly relevant as part of:

• adult social care pathways
• community wellbeing initiatives
• hospital discharge considerations
• early intervention strategies

Two Generation’s Work with Local Authorities

We work with local authorities in a range of ways, including supporting safeguarding processes, raising awareness of Homeshare among residents, enabling referrals for individuals who may benefit from companionship and support, working alongside adult social care and community teams, and exploring preventative approaches to housing and wellbeing. Below are a few examples of how we have worked alongside councils.

Isle of Wight Council

In one of the first initiatives of its kind, we are working with the Isle of Wight Council to introduce Homeshare to the Island, offering it as a preventative, community-based option for residents who may benefit from companionship and light support at home.

Harrow Council

We have worked closely with Harrow Council for the past four years on the Homes for Ukraine scheme, carrying out over 500 host assessments and supporting the council to ensure placements are safe, well managed and appropriately matched.

Waltham Forest Council

We seconded a member of our team to work closely with Waltham Forest Council, raising awareness of Homeshare across adult social care, council services and community organisations, and exploring potential referral pathways.

Enfield Council

We supported Enfield Council during the first year of the Homes for Ukraine programme in 2022. Our work included approximately 75 host assessments, including checks on supporting documentation as part of the council’s safeguarding process.