Go Fund Yourself

So firstly, tell me about how the scheme works?

It works by bringing two people together, usually from different generations. The scheme matches someone who needs some help maintaining independence to live in their own home with someone (or sometimes couples) who are looking for somewhere affordable to live and is happy to give an agreed level of practical help/companionship in return.

Who were you partnered with?

I got interviewed and I interviewed (I saw this as a two-way process) several individuals, along with their families, before agreeing to be matched with a very lovely lady who had a wonderfully supportive family. I could not have been more blessed with the lady I was matched with, she had such a colourful life, a positive attitude and was such a joy to live with. I ended up living there for about 4 years! My family and friends who met her all adored her too and we’d all have a good laugh & natter over wine!

How does it work financially / what did you save?

It was £150 for myself and £150 for the lady I lived with - we both paid the agency directly, no monies were exchanged between us. The financial benefits were positive for me. I was super lucky to live very close to be able to walk to work which helped with transport costs. I was keen to save for a deposit and an emergency fund. I managed to save about £40,000 or so, overall. £26,000 went towards my deposit for a 1 bed London flat, plus legal costs, furniture and all the other costs associated with buying a property! (I also used the Help to Buy scheme, but I didn’t need to use the full 40% because I had a decent deposit). As I don’t have a financial cushion from my parents, I was very keen to have an emergency fund for peace of mind. I can’t stress how much this offers me comfort and confidence to live more freely now!

What was it like? How much caring are you required to do?

I loved it! At the beginning, I was very realistic in terms of the amount of time I was able to dedicate and what I was able to offer as I had a full-time job. I wanted a homeshare that would be long-term, manageable, and stable, not just for myself but for whomever I was matched with. It's key to be open and honest about your home life, time, skills, and experience. You get your own room, sometimes bathroom - I was even offered my own ‘wing’ in one household! Official caring duties were not a requirement or expected from me, we discussed what was needed and I was more than happy to make nutritious meals, keep the house in order, companionship, etc.

Would you recommend it?

I think it’s such a fantastic initiative! I recommend it to anyone who’s compassionate and has a clear understanding of what it entails – each home share is different so if you feel it’s for you, then go for it. It really helps those who are perhaps a little older to stay in the comfort of their own home, in an area they know well whilst going in full circle in helping those willing to share a few hours a week in return for an affordable living arrangement.

Are you still in touch?

Unfortunately, she passed away but I'm still in touch with the family, they're like an extension of my own.

All the feels...If you'd like to learn more about HomeShare check out their website. This is not sponsored. Thank you to this wonderful member for sharing their story.

If you'd like to share a financial story, email me alice@gofundyourself.co