Swanston, Midlothian

A friendly elderly woman (Linda) is seeking a Sharer for her home in Edinburgh to give a mix of 10 hours of help and company each week in exchange for low-cost accommodation in her house.

This home is in the Swanston area on the south side of Edinburgh and offers a private double-bed bedroom overlooking the Pentland Hills with a bathroom that is only occasionally used. The property is located in a quiet neighbourhood at the end of a row with no passing traffic and easy access to the Edinburgh Bypass. There are numerous supermarkets, gyms, doctors, and dentists close by, and it is a 20-minute drive to the city centre or a 35-minute bus ride.

Linda, who has a very pleasant and calm demeanour, is suffering from dementia and is mainly looking for friendly companionship and the reassurance of an overnight presence in the home. Carers visit the house daily, and there is a cleaner and gardener, so the responsibilities for the Sharer would mostly be limited to being a friendly housemate, helping keep in touch with family members and other minor tasks as they arise.

We are looking for someone who will be a friendly presence, be understanding of Linda’s dementia, have a positive outlook, be clean, tidy and organised. They would not be expected to be at home all day, so could be studying or at work, but a home or hybrid worker would also be welcome. The Homesharer would have to be happy to maintain regular contact with Linda’s daughter, who lives abroad. Should be a non-smoker without pets.

If you are interested and think that you might be suitable, please fill out our application form on the Homeshare Scotland website under “Sharer” (it takes around 5 minutes).