Your questions, answered.
THE HomeShare now offers two options so you can find the arrangement that best fits your needs, your lifestyle, and your family's peace of mind.
A lighter-touch, more affordable option for independent householders who are comfortable managing the day-to-day arrangement themselves, with guidance and support from our team when needed.
Our fully managed service, including in-person assessments, team-facilitated introductions, and monthly home visits. Ideal for householders and families looking for comprehensive ongoing support.
Absolutely. Underpinning THE HomeShare's core values of Trust, Connection, Collaboration, and Commitment is the safety and security of all our matches. Every Homesharer is reference-checked prior to moving in, and all undergo Garda Vetting through An Garda Síochána's National Vetting Bureau, making us Ireland's only Homeshare programme with this mandatory requirement.
We also have a dedicated Safeguarding Officer on hand for any concerns regarding your or your loved one's safety.
Homesharing enables people to maintain independence in their own home for longer. THE HomeShare carefully matches Householders with a fully vetted Homesharer based on individual preferences, someone who provides companionship and an overnight presence for peace of mind and security.
If your loved one is feeling lonely or isolated, or nervous at night alone, Homesharing is a wonderful way to ease that worry and bring new friendship into the home. THE HomeShare is with you every step of the journey.
Depending on the option you choose, this can range from accessible light-touch guidance (Homeshare Connect) to fully hands-on, ongoing management with monthly home visits (Homeshare Plus).
Your wishes and support requirements are discussed at the very first meeting with your HomeShare Consultant, so we can source a Homesharer who genuinely meets your needs. Practical support includes things like putting the bins out, topping up shopping, light meal preparation, and light household chores.
Homesharers are not Housekeepers or Home Carers and cannot carry out large household tasks or provide personal care (showering, toileting, etc.). Their presence and support can help reduce the need for professional services, but they are not there to replace them.
Homesharing is built on a foundation of companionship: spending time together. That said, as the Homesharer will see your home as theirs, it is expected they'll do their fair share around the house.
THE HomeShare prides itself on creating happy and lasting matches. During your Consultation, we get to know you, your likes, dislikes, hobbies, interests, and your preferences as to who you'd feel most comfortable sharing your home with. Only then do we begin searching and shortlisting suitable candidates.
Homeshare Plus — Our team personally facilitates introductions: we arrange the date, and we're present for the meeting.
Homeshare Connect — We coordinate the match and provide guidance; the introduction is then arranged directly between yourself and the potential Homesharer.
In both cases, there is no obligation to proceed. Both sides are encouraged to take time to reflect before making a decision. Following introductions, your consultant will follow up to see whether you'd like to move forward to a HomeShare Trial.
Homesharers do not pay rent. They are there to provide companionship and an overnight presence for your peace of mind and security. Homesharers make a nominal contribution toward utilities (typically €65 per month) and purchase their own meals and household items. Your bespoke HomeShare Agreement will outline all expectations and boundaries in detail.
| Homeshare Connect | Homeshare Plus | |
|---|---|---|
| Placement fee |
€98.40 incl. VAT 50% on search start · 50% on match |
€430 incl. VAT 25% on search start · 75% on match |
| Monthly support fee | €98.40 incl. VAT | €240 incl. VAT |
| Re-matching fee | None — your placement fee covers all future arrangements | |
VAT is charged at the current Irish rate of 23%. City and regional pricing may vary.
Homesharers do not require a formal qualification. They are not employees, and they are not expected to carry out any professional tasks. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and bring many different levels of experience and knowledge.
THE HomeShare ensures every Homesharer matched with a Householder has a good level of maturity and understanding, appropriate for your particular circumstances and based on your stated preferences.
Yes. There is a two-week trial period before any long-term commitment is made.
Homeshare Plus — The team checks in every few days by phone or in person during the trial.
Homeshare Connect — The team is available via WhatsApp and phone should any questions or concerns arise.
Simply contact us or complete an online enquiry form and a member of our team will get in touch to discuss things further with you. No obligation. No pressure.
Homesharers require their own bedroom (single or double), access to a bathroom and kitchen, and enough space to store their belongings safely, no trip hazards.
In the kitchen, a press and 1–2 fridge shelves are sufficient, as most Homesharers will bring their own utensils and cook their own meals. You are not expected to go to any expense when preparing. During your consultation, the team will advise if anything further is needed ahead of your Homesharer's arrival.
We always encourage open communication first, speaking directly with your Homesharer about any concern is the most constructive starting point. However, if you feel unable or anxious about approaching a topic, contact THE HomeShare team and we will provide guidance and support.
If necessary, we will meet personally with both Householder and Homesharer to resolve matters efficiently, always with the wellbeing of the homeshare relationship in mind. In the event of serious concerns, our dedicated Safeguarding Officer is available 24/7 to ensure your safety.
Once you have chosen who you'd like to share your home with, THE HomeShare begins our full safeguarding process:
References: Each Homesharer provides three referees: wo of which must be professional (e.g. a landlord or employer) and one which may be a character reference. Our team contacts all three by phone and email.
Garda Vetting: A Garda Vetting request is submitted on behalf of the Homesharer, whereby An Garda Síochána carries out a full check for any previous convictions.
Homesharing is a wonderful option for many Householders, and we are fully aware that care requirements often change as we age. Should you reach a stage where full-time care is needed, we ask that you provide your Homesharer with a minimum of one month's notice so they can find alternative accommodation.
Given the current housing crisis, as much notice as possible is always appreciated.
Both options include the same core safeguarding, vetting, and emergency support. The difference is the level of hands-on involvement from our team throughout your journey.
Homeshare Connect is designed for independent householders who are comfortable taking the lead on the day-to-day arrangement, with our team available for guidance and support when needed via phone and WhatsApp.
Homeshare Plus is our fully managed service: in-person assessments, team-facilitated introductions, monthly home visits, and more frequent check-ins throughout the trial. Ideal for families seeking ongoing reassurance and comprehensive support.
It only takes a moment to take the first step. And if you're not quite there yet, that's perfectly fine too.
We understand that the idea of welcoming someone new into the home, or broaching the subject with an older loved one, can feel daunting. It's a big step, and it deserves careful thought.
THE HomeShare is committed to our mission of keeping older people safely and happily in their own homes for as long as possible. We're here to answer your questions, at your own pace, with absolutely no pressure and no obligation.
