As we celebrate Homeshare Week 2025 (29th September – 5th October), we spoke with David Matthews, elected Chair of the Homeshare UK Network and a Trustee of Shared Lives Plus. David is also Head of Service for Grace Eyre’s Homeshare and Shared Lives scheme in Sussex.
David has been with Grace Eyre since 2006 and launched their Homeshare service in 2024. He became Chair of the Homeshare UK Network in June 2024, representing providers nationwide and helping shape the future of Homeshare.
Can you explain the purpose of Homeshare UK and how it supports members?
“Homeshare UK is a national network that promotes homesharing – where someone with a spare room offers accommodation to a person who provides companionship and
a little help around the home. It supports older or vulnerable people to live independently while offering affordable housing.
As part of Shared Lives Plus, Homeshare UK supports local programmes with a framework for safe and effective matches, safeguarding checks, ongoing support, and training. The goal is to reduce loneliness, support independence, and create mutually beneficial relationships across generations.”
How did you first get involved with Homeshare, and what drew you to this work?
“The charity I work for heard about Homeshare UK through an individual’s experience in another area. We approached to find out more and the idea of supporting people to remain independent for longer through companionship with someone looking for affordable accommodation, and wanting to give something back, fitted well with our charity’s goal of helping vulnerable people.”
Can you tell us about your role as Chair of the Homeshare UK network?
“I have been Chair since June 2024. I support members to come together, share successes and discuss development. I also sit on the Shared Lives Plus Board of Trustees to represent the network at the highest level of governance. It’s a real honour to work with members both new and well established and to shape the network’s future together.”
How does Homeshare UK work with local providers to ensure safe and effective matches?
“Homeshare UK works closely with local providers through a structured and supportive process, offering a Good Practice Guide and Quality Assurance Framework to maintain high standards. This covers comprehensive safety checks, including criminal records, references, home assessments, and interviews. We also assess compatibility, facilitate introductions, and guide both the householder and homesharer through a trial period and flexible agreement. Throughout the match, ongoing monitoring and support ensure it remains safe, beneficial, and mutually respectful.”
What do you see as the key benefits of Homeshare for older people, homesharers, and families?
“For older people and their families, the main benefits are the chance to safely share their home, enjoy companionship that supports their wellbeing, and feel reassured knowing someone is around if needed. For homesharers, it’s about learning from someone with a lifetime of experience and stories, gaining skills in supporting people in positive ways, and being part of a household. It also provides a more affordable way to live in areas that might otherwise be out of reach.”
What are some of the biggest successes you’ve seen in the network so far?
“Over the past year, we’ve welcomed a new member in Scotland, and the number of matches is steadily growing. Homeshare has been recognised in reports such as Hope for All Ages, Inside Housing, and Our Future Homes, which highlight housing’s role in health and wellbeing.
ARF funding has raised awareness and built strong local links in two areas. And of course, one of the most exciting moments was seeing Homeshare featured on BBC One’s The One Show, which brought national attention to the difference Homeshare makes.”
Can you share a story that illustrates the difference Homeshare makes?
“One story that really stands out is the one featured on The One Show. It followed Dorothy, 88, and Rumeysa, 31, who have shared a home in Bristol for over a year through Homeshare West. Dorothy spoke about how having Rumeysa in the house gave her structure and companionship, while Rumeysa said that beyond the affordable accommodation, the real benefit was the friendship
They’ve become close, sharing cups of tea, chats, and even watching Antiques Roadshow together. For me, that captures what Homeshare is all about – simple connections that bring real comfort, support, and joy.
What advice would you give to families considering Homeshare for their loved ones?
“Find your local scheme on the Homeshare UK website, and start a conversation. Providers are really happy to talk you through how Homeshare UK may be able to help and answer any of your questions.”
What do you see as the future of Homeshare in the UK?
“My hope is that one day Homeshare will be a key recommendation from GPs, Social Workers and other professionals in care when older people or families start to express concerns about loneliness and isolation.”
What message would you like to share during Homeshare Week 2025?
“It really is a fantastic service that can really help everyone – from the homeowner, their families, and the homesharer. Reach out to find out more!”
To find out more and connect with your local Homeshare provider, visit: Find a Homeshare Provider