Homeshare finds 'companionship for the Island's loneliest'

Bespoke matches could promote householders independence

Offering the ageing population with practical support and general help around their homes, could be the solution to ending loneliness in the Manx community.

Local company Island Homeshare, says its work fosters intergenerational bonds and may even take some of the weight off of care workers.

The newly-launched alternative living option looks to pair those with spare rooms in their homes, with those seeking affordable accommodation.

"It's a unique concept" says Managing Director Ann Shimmin, who took inspiration from a similar scheme in Northern Ireland.

"You're looking at, for a potential homesharer, costs of about £7 per day.

"So that's quite an attractive option for individuals, and what you'll be benefitting from will be living in a home."

With a background in health and social care, Mrs Shimmin believes homesharing can find companionship for society's most isolated or those anxious about living alone and it's securing them with that care which really motivates her.

"I am aware of the growing number of older people on the Island who are lonely and in need of practical support.

"So for us it's about helping an ageing population to remain in their homes for longer and  promoting those intergenerational relationships."

When it comes to matching prospective homesharers with householders, they are required to go through a standard DBS check and provide a number of personal and professional references.

This is all part of the vetting process to ensure the homeshare pairing is as ideal as it can be.

"We recognise the importance of safeguarding of all parties in the arrangement and for us, matching is vital.

"We want to find out as much information as we can about them; their interests, their lifestyle choices, their preferences really when it comes to living with someone.

"We've got to make sure that match is right.

For more information visit the Island Home Share on facebook, online at www.islandhomeshare.im or call Ann on 466933.