Peter’s story: Holidays for everyone and designing for inclusivity
Previously an estate’s director for a university in London, following his accident he wanted to combine what he knew from his former line of work with what life is like for him now.
Christine and Margaret's story: Intergenerational homeshare
Christine and Margaret have lived in an intergenerational homeshare for over a year.
What is your current living situation?
I am a 28-year-old woman and I have been living with Margaret, who is 84 for over twelve months. We have developed a strong friendship through living together – it is a circle of support which we both contribute to and benefit from.
How did you come to live with Margaret?
Last year, I left a stressful job to apply for a role in a company which was a better fit for me. I enjoyed the new work but after a few months I wanted a more affordable living situation.
I was looking on Spareroom and spotted the room Margaret had available. It was really good value and Margaret had a very thoughtful profile. The advert explained that Margaret was looking for someone to live with her as part of a befriending scheme.
How have you found intergenerational homesharing?
Margaret is a former head of psychology for prison services – she's a friendly, warm and interesting person. I love psychology so we have lots in common. Margaret speaks French and I also have a French background as my mum is from Guadeloupe. I’ve been keen to improve my French so it is great to be able to practice together.
I could immediately tell that Margaret and myself would be a good match because I’ve always lived in South East London and Margaret’s home is only 15 minutes from my family home. Margaret gets on really well with my mum – we've bonded over food together and have great conversations.
Margaret is visually impaired so I read to her. I’m currently reading her a book of poems written by one of my friends, we’re really enjoying talking about the poems together.
What have you learned from living with Margaret?
I hadn’t had much of an insight into older generations before living with Margaret because I didn’t grow up with my grandparents. I have really appreciated the opportunity to see another perspective on the world. Margaret has taught me a lot and I've taught her a lot too.
I've loved seeing how certain ideas have arisen in our society. You can find yourself being surrounded by only people who think like you, but now I can get insight from someone with a different experience to me.
Share and Care Homeshare is a housing service that brings together vulnerable, older or disabled householders with Sharer volunteers such as mature students, key workers, or other professionals.
The service offers a greater connection, sense of safety, supported independence and reduced loneliness for householders while offering an affordable housing option and strong, meaningful connections for Sharers in a mutually beneficial arrangement.
Share and Care Homeshare has arranged hundreds of matches over the years since its foundation.
For more information visit https://www.shareandcare.co.uk/.
