What is Home Sharing? 

“Home Sharing” is an arrangement where an adult with a disability lives in another person’s home and receives support and services based on their personal goals and needs. 

How Does Home Sharing Work? 

Specific living arrangements can vary, a person with a disability could live with a family, a roommate or couple, or have a separate living space within the home. 

What is the Role of a Home Sharing Provider? 

As a home sharing provider, your role is to provide a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. You will assist with daily living activities, promote community inclusion, and foster a meaningful connection. 

What Types of Home Sharing Arrangements Are There? 

Home sharing arrangements can vary based on individual preferences. Some individuals may prefer a close, family-like relationship with their home sharing provider, while others may prefer more independence, and separate schedules. Each situation is unique and is tailored to meet the wants and needs of the people involved. 

What Things Do I Need to Provide? 

While there are no requirements, it is recommended that you consider the needs of the person sharing your home. For some, a quiet space, with low lighting, soft colours and little clutter is best. Others will want to personalize their space in their own way. It is important to work together.

The home you provide should meet the needs and choices of all the people sharing the home. It should be a place where the people receiving support can have friends and family visit, can decorate their space, enjoy privacy when desired, and have the freedom to come and go as they please. Establishing house rules together and regularly reviewing them will help ensure everyone remains happy in the home. 

Will I Work With a Team? 

The home sharing team includes the person receiving the service, the home sharing provider who is paid to provide support, the home sharing coordinator from a service agency, and the person’s family, friends, and supporters. CLBC and the local community also play important roles. 

Who Can Become a Home Sharing Provider? 

Home sharing providers can be single individuals, couples, or families who value inclusion and have a genuine interest in supporting someone to be independent and included in the community.  Diversity, equity and inclusion is important and we encourage everyone who is interested to apply.

What Skills or Qualities Are Beneficial?  

Strong communication skills, patience, empathy, flexibility, respect for individual choices and preferences, problem- solving abilities, and a commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive communities for people with disabilities. 

Do I Need Previous Experience or Specific Qualifications to Become a Home Sharing Provider? 

While previous experience or qualifications in the field are beneficial, they are not always the only requirement. Each application is assessed based on the person’s unique qualities, abilities, and home environment. The most important factors are a genuine interest in supporting people with developmental disabilities and a commitment to creating a safe and inclusive home. 

How Can I Apply to be a Home Sharing Provider? 

You can apply to an agency that coordinates home sharing services. The application process typically involves demonstrating that you meet basic qualifications and are well-suited for the role. More information on becoming a home sharing provider can be found HERE 

What Does the Application and Screening Process Involve? 

The application and screening processes may vary slightly among agencies, but they generally include pre-screening, information gathering, interviews, analysis, evaluation, and a health and safety checklist. 

How Long Does it Take to Get Approved as a Home Sharing Provider? 

The approval process can vary, but it involves several steps, including screening, home study, and evaluation. The timeframe can depend on factors such as the availability of matching and completion of required documentation. 

What Are Some of the Additional Responsibilities? 

As part of a team, you will help create and implement person-centered plans, ensuring everyone’s well-being and maintaining positive relationships. As a home sharing provider, you will also provide information, training, and support where needed. Consideration of a person’s cultural needs and how they want to be part of their community should also be part of the planning process. 

How are Home Sharing Providers Compensated? 

Home sharing providers receive compensation based on the established home sharing rate structure. The specific amount depends on the individual’s level of disability support needs, as determined by the Guide to Support Allocation (GSA) assessment tool. Payments come from both Community Living BC (CLBC) and individual contributions. Generally, individuals with higher support needs may receive higher compensation due to the increased level of care and support required.  

What Kind of Disabilities Can I Expect ? 

The level of disability can vary. Here are some examples of different levels of disability and potential requirements to meet their needs: 

Mild Disability: 

• Independent with most daily activities. 
• May require occasional assistance with tasks such as budgeting, transportation, or meal planning. 
• Generally does not require assistance with personal care, lifting, or bathing. 

Moderate Disability: 

• May need assistance with some daily activities, such as meal preparation, medication management, or household chores. 
• May require occasional help with personal care tasks, such as bathing or dressing. 
• Lifting or transfers may be needed for individuals with limited mobility. 

Complex Support Needs

• Requires significant support with daily living activities, including personal care, meal preparation, and household tasks. 
• May have mobility challenges and require assistance with transfers, lifting, or repositioning. 
• May have specific medical needs or require specialized equipment. 

Can I Be a Home Sharing Provider to Someone I Already Know? 

Yes, it is possible to become a home sharing provider to someone you already know. This often works well if you have an existing positive relationship and have previously provided support to them. The same application and screening processes will apply to ensure a successful transition into a home sharing arrangement. 

 
What Happens if the Match Isn’t Working?

It is essential to ensure a compatible match between the person with a disability and the home sharing provider. If, for any reason, the match does not work out, the agency or organization facilitating the home sharing arrangement, will work with both parties to explore alternative options.

Can I Have a Full-time Job While Being a Home Sharing Provider? 

It is possible to be a home sharing provider while having a full-time job, but it is important to consider the time and availability required to fulfill the responsibilities of the role. Discuss your schedule and commitments with the agency or organization to ensure that you can meet the needs of the individual and provide the necessary support. 

Are Pets Allowed in the Home? 

This depends on everyone’s preferences and any allergies they may have. It is important to discuss this with the agency or organization facilitating the home sharing arrangement to determine if pets are in the home or if the person looking for a home sharing arrangement wants to have a pet. 

What are the Expected Hours of Work as a Home Sharing Provider? 

The hours of work can vary depending on the needs and what is part of the agreement. It is important to establish clear expectations regarding schedules and availability during the application and matching process. 

Can I Take Vacations or Time off as a Home Sharing Provider? 

Yes, as a home sharing provider, you are entitled to take vacations and have time off. Discussing and coordinating the potential options for coverage with the agency or organization is crucial to ensure continuous support for the person during your absence. 

For more information contact: Home Sharing Support Society BC directly at: Email: info@homesharingbc.ca Web: www.homesharingbc.ca