“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

General information for sharing what home sharing is and some of the basic requirements.

Link below to the PowerPoint Presentation

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/195erzDTcQk6BpTL4lzSj1ToWqLAIMIkr/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=109652215974235864295&rtpof=true&sd=true

Payments for Home Sharing

Canada Revenue Agency Technical Interpretation

Please note that the following information, although believed to be correct at the time of posting, may not represent the current position of the CRA.

Link to Technical Interpretation for Home Sharing CRA

Link to Income Tax Act Section 81(1)(h) Social Assistance Payments

Paragraph 81(1)(h) of the Income Tax Act (the “Act”) states:

“where the taxpayer is an individual (other than a trust), a social assistance payment (other than a prescribed payment) ordinarily made on the basis of a means, needs or income test under a program provided for by an Act of Parliament or a law of a province, to the extent that it is received directly or indirectly by the taxpayer for the benefit of another individual (other than the taxpayer’s spouse or common-law partner or a person who is related to the taxpayer or to the taxpayer’s spouse or common-law partner), if

(i) no family allowance under the Family Allowances Act or any similar allowance under a law of a province that provides for payment of an allowance similar to the family allowance provided under that Act is payable in respect of the other individual for the period in respect of which the social assistance payment is made, and

(ii) the other individual resides in the taxpayer’s principal place of residence, or the taxpayer’s principal place of residence is maintained for use as the residence of that other individual, throughout the period referred to in subparagraph (i);”

Also, the CRA’s policy with respect to the determination of one’s principal place of residence for the purposes of the application of paragraph 81(1)(h) is found in Income Tax Technical News No. 31R2, which reads as follows:

“An individual’s “principal place of residence” is the place where the individual regularly, normally or customarily lives. In our view, the place where the individual normally sleeps is a significant factor in making this determination.”

“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

Welcome to the world of home sharing, where sharing your home with an individual with a developmental disability can be an immensely fulfilling experience. While it comes with its challenges, becoming a home sharing provider is more than just a job—it’s a lifestyle choice that offers rich rewards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of becoming a home sharing provider, highlighting key steps and providing links to valuable resources from Community Living BC (CLBC).

Step 1:Approval and Screening Process

Becoming a home sharing provider involves a thorough approval and screening process. This comprehensive evaluation includes all members of your household. It’s important to note that even if you’re approved as a provider, there’s no guarantee of receiving a contract. Contract issuance depends on various factors, such as the individual’s specific preferences and support requirements.

Step 2:Meeting Basic Requirements

To contract with CLBC and its partner agencies as a home sharing provider, there are several basic requirements to fulfill. These include:

• Minimum age of 19
• Satisfactory home study
• Satisfactory criminal record check
• First aid/CPR certification
• Physician’s certification of good health
• Valid driver’s license

Step 3: Understanding CLBC Home Sharing Rates

CLBC has established a structured rate system for home sharing based on an individual’s level of disability support needs. The compensation amount is determined using the Guide to Support Allocation (GSA) assessment tool. Home sharing providers receive total compensation through payments from CLBC and individual contributions. The specific contribution amount is based on factors such as age and eligibility for BC Disability Assistance or Old Age Security/Guaranteed Income Supplement. For detailed information on home sharing rates from CLBC, including frequently asked questions, Click here

Step 4: Handbook for Home Sharing Providers

CLBC has developed a comprehensive handbook for home sharing providers. This valuable resource outlines important standards, policies, and successful practices within the field. It also offers a range of resources aimed at fostering long-lasting and meaningful home sharing relationships. Click here to read the Handbook for Home Sharing Providers. on CLBC’s website

Step 5: Finding Home Share Agencies

CLBC collaborates with various community agencies across the province to provide home share services. To find agencies offering home sharing services in your community, follow these steps:

1. Use our handy tool to locate agencies coordinating home sharing services LINK.
2. Contact the agencies directly to inquire about their home sharing services and obtain further information about the application process.
3. If there are currently no agencies providing home sharing in your community or if you require additional information, please reach out to your nearest local CLBC office here.

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Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC) 

Supporting You as a Home Sharing Provider 

Home Sharing Providers play an essential role in building safe, supportive homes for adults with developmental disabilities. We know the work you do is both rewarding and complex, this is why the Home Sharing Support Society BC (HSSSBC) exists, to provide the tools, resources, and community you need to feel supported. 

What We Offer 

• Practical Supports: Access training, tools, and resources designed for the unique realities of home sharing. 

• Advocacy: Conflict resolution supports. We amplify the voices of providers at the local and provincial levels to improve recognition and system supports.

• Information & Updates: Stay informed with timely newsletters, updates on policy, and best practices. 

• Community & Connection: Join a province-wide network of providers who share your experiences and understand your challenges. 

• Training Opportunities: Free and subsidized learning, including Open Future Learning, workshops, and expert sessions. 

• Recognition: Celebrate achievements through events such as the Home Sharing Provider Awards. 

• HSP Guidebook: A comprehensive resource covering best practices, policies, standards, rights, and responsibilities in home sharing. 

• Recruitment Supports: Tools and guidance for hiring respite providers and strengthening your support network. 

• 1:1 Consultations: Personalized support to address your specific questions or challenges. 

• Ask an Expert: Direct access to professionals with expertise in home sharing and disability supports. 

Reach out directly for information, tools, resources or questions.

Phone: 604.243.2430

Email: info@homesharingbc.ca

Board: board@homesharingbc.ca

Social: Facebook, Facebook Group, Instagram 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Q: What is the difference between an agency and CLBC?
A: CLBC is the government body that funds services. Agencies are contracted by CLBC to manage home sharing arrangements and provide direct support to providers. 

Q: Is home sharing the same as fostering?
A: No. Fostering supports children and youth under the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). Home sharing supports adults with disabilities and is overseen by CLBC. 

Q: Are Home Sharing Providers employees?
A: No. Providers are independent contractors. They sign a service agreement with an agency, not an employment contract. 

Q: What support does providers receive?
A: Agencies offer monitoring, training, and guidance. Respite services may also be available to give providers breaks. 

Q: Can family members be Home Sharing Providers?
A: Yes, in some cases, family members can become providers if it is in the best interest of the individual and supported by CLBC. 

Q: Who decides where an individual lives?
A: The decision is made through a person-centered planning process involving the individual, their family, the CLBC Facilitator, and potential providers. 

Q: What happens if a provider cannot continue?
A: Agencies and CLBC work with the individual and their family to find alternative housing and ensure a smooth transition. 

Q: How often are monitoring visits done?
A: Agencies usually conduct monitoring visits at least once a year, though frequency may vary depending on individual needs and policies. 

Q: What is respite and who pays for it?
A: Respite is short-term care to give providers rest. It is usually arranged through the agency and funded by CLBC. 

Q: Can providers take vacations?
A: Yes, but they must arrange appropriate respite care in advance, so the individual continues to be supported.