Adapted and updated from an item in Information Exchange newsletter (July '95).
Homesharing is a scheme run by the Community Care Trust, whose aim is to provide good and inexpensive care to elderly, disabled people. With homesharing, the disadvantaged householder provides free accommodation in their home to a Homesharer, who in return, provides help in the home, for example help with cooking, cleaning, shopping and other tasks, and the assurance that someone will be there at night.
Homesharers continue their usual occupation; most are professional people, some from overseas, who wish to work or study in London. There is a thorough selection and matching process. Over thirty 'pairings' are in place, mainly in Central London, Kingston and Richmond.
But of particular interest, was the organisation's intention, currently dormant, of making a special effort to help those with life-threatening illnesses.
A well-supported carer makes a major difference to a person's ability to contemplate dying at home; a Homesharer could offer continuity and personalised care, as well as friendship.
The Trust had planned to offer an educational package designed to familiarise Homesharers with issues specific to terminal care, as well as more general care issues.
If the Householder were being cared for by a family member, the ability to share the night calls and support one another would be invaluable. By offering the space in their home, the Householder would feel involved in their own care.
Further information from : Mrs G McKinnel, Homeshare, St Mary Abbots Church House, Vicarage Gate, London W8 4HN (tel 020 7 376 0111).
This webpage forms part of the Global Ideas Bank (www.globalideasbank.org).
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