Get A Spare Family:

  1. * Free support with common home tasks and some errands.
  2. * Companionship to prevent elderly loneliness and anxiety.
  3. * Free accommodation for struggling University Students.


Spare Family connects responsible and caring university students with elderly hosts struggling with loneliness and common tasks around the home, in exchange for a rent-free accommodation. It's a win win arrangement that connects two different generations to help solve each others pressing needs. Sign up now to get started or contact us via email at support@sparefamily.com for help.

Vetted Helpers
Avoid Loneliness
Feel Supported

How It Works

Elderly Hosts

Have a spare room and need help around the house? Connect with trustworthy young people who can assist with daily tasks whilst providing a lively presence in your home.

  • Get help with shopping & errands
  • Assistance with light housework
  • Someone reliable at home
  • Enjoy a more active household

Young Helpers

Students, young professionals, or anyone looking for affordable housing. Live rent-free in exchange for helping elderly hosts with everyday tasks and bringing energy to their home.

  • Live without paying rent
  • Safe, family-like environment
  • Flexible helping arrangements
  • Build meaningful relationships

Why Choose SpareFamily?

Verified & Secure

All users undergo thorough verification including ID checks and background screening

Smart Matching

Our AI-powered algorithm connects elderly hosts with suitable young helpers based on needs and availability

Guided Introductions

Admin-supervised introductions ensure safe and suitable matches for both parties

Mutual Benefits

Elderly get help they need, young people get free accommodation - everyone wins

Frequently Asked Questions

How does SpareFamily work?
Who can join SpareFamily?
Is SpareFamily free to use?
How do you ensure user safety?
What verification is required?
What kind of help is expected?

Success Stories

Hear from our community of hosts and helpers

"Having James stay with me has been wonderful. He helps with the garden and shopping, and I feel so much less lonely. SpareFamily truly changed my life."

Margaret H.

Host, Bristol

"I was struggling with London rent prices. Through SpareFamily I found Margaret and now have a lovely room in exchange for a few hours of help each week. Couldn't be happier!"

James O.

Helper, Bristol

"The verification process gave me real confidence. My helper Aisha is like family now — she helps around the house and we share meals together. Absolutely brilliant service."

Patricia W.

Host, Edinburgh

"SpareFamily matched me with Patricia who lives 10 minutes from my university. I help a few hours a week and have free accommodation. It's a genuine win-win arrangement."

Aisha K.

Helper, Edinburgh

"After my wife passed, the house felt too quiet. My helper Tom keeps me company, helps with odd jobs, and we watch football together. I'd recommend SpareFamily to any older person living alone."

Robert T.

Host, Manchester

"Finding affordable housing in London felt impossible. SpareFamily connected me with a lovely retired teacher. I cook twice a week and do some shopping — and have a safe, affordable home."

Sophie M.

Helper, London

"Having James stay with me has been wonderful. He helps with the garden and shopping, and I feel so much less lonely. SpareFamily truly changed my life."

Margaret H.

Host, Bristol

"I was struggling with London rent prices. Through SpareFamily I found Margaret and now have a lovely room in exchange for a few hours of help each week. Couldn't be happier!"

James O.

Helper, Bristol

"The verification process gave me real confidence. My helper Aisha is like family now — she helps around the house and we share meals together. Absolutely brilliant service."

Patricia W.

Host, Edinburgh

"SpareFamily matched me with Patricia who lives 10 minutes from my university. I help a few hours a week and have free accommodation. It's a genuine win-win arrangement."

Aisha K.

Helper, Edinburgh

"After my wife passed, the house felt too quiet. My helper Tom keeps me company, helps with odd jobs, and we watch football together. I'd recommend SpareFamily to any older person living alone."

Robert T.

Host, Manchester

"Finding affordable housing in London felt impossible. SpareFamily connected me with a lovely retired teacher. I cook twice a week and do some shopping — and have a safe, affordable home."

Sophie M.

Helper, London

Ready to Join SpareFamily?

Whether you're a student looking for free accommodation or an elderly person looking for help around the home, we're here to make the match. Join thousands of users and find the right spare family for cohabiting arrangement through SpareFamily.