Oxford Homeshare
Homeshare Oxford: 3 Reasons This Retired Professor Is Seeking a Companion
When this recently retired gentleman first contacted Share My Home Homeshare, it was evident that he already had a clear understanding of what homesharing could offer. He had previously welcomed a mature student into his home, an arrangement that proved highly successful for well over a year. The older man approached us hoping to find a similarly suitable match for him in Oxfordshire.
During our introductory call, three key priorities became apparent.
1. The gentleman is seeking companionship as the priority.
This is a very independent and active older man. He continues to drive, maintains a busy social life, has close friends, and is well connected within his local community. His interest lies not so much in practical assistance, but in companionship during the evenings and in sharing his home with someone to reduce the risk of isolation.
2. He is looking for genuine intellectual connection.
As a retired professor, ongoing intellectual engagement is of considerable importance to him. His interests encompass politics, science, international affairs, and natural history. He regularly listens to Radio 3, follows the news closely, and enjoys puzzles and games, including go, scrabble, and bridge. He also has a keen interest in gardening, walking, and attending concerts and theatre performances. He hopes to find a home sharer who shares this appreciation for conversation and continued learning.
3. He places equal value on shared tasks.
Sharing meals and engaging in regular conversation are not incidental to him; they represent an essential part of what he is seeking from the arrangement. He specifically mentioned he would prefer the home sharer to share some of the cooking and he would tidy up alongside them. This has worked well in the past.
What we are looking for in a homesharer.
This represents an excellent opportunity in central Oxford, ideally suited to a mature academic who enjoys thoughtful conversation and is happy to spend time in the garden. In exchange for approximately 10–15 hours of weekly company and support, the homesharer would have use of a beautiful home, including a generously sized double bedroom and a substantial office reserved for their sole use. The weekly support comprises mainly companionship and help with cooking some evening meals as well as a little gardening help.
How we ensure the right match.
Every arrangement includes a trial stay prior to formalising the arrangement, allowing both the householder and companion to assess how the arrangement functions in practice. This trial period informs the expectations set out in the homeshare agreement, which is prepared collaboratively between the householder, the companion, and Share My Home in advance of the formal move-in.
We have also consulted with one of this gentleman's previous home sharers, who provided a considered and positive reference regarding the homesharing experience.
We look forward to progressing this match and are confident we will identify a suitable companion for him.