A charity has come up with matchmaking service for those needing additional help at home.

Novus Homeshare has set up a scheme to match those with a spare room who need help around the house, or householders, with those needing accommodation, known as housesharers.

Householders pay £130 per month and receive regular check-ups from the charity, while housesharers only pay £199.34 a month, far less than the average London rental.

“Homeshare allows those participating to maintain their independence and dignity whilst knowing help is always there should they need it,” said Cllr  Sachin Rajput, who chairs the Council’s adults and safeguarding committee.

“This fantastic scheme is helping us to tackle two of Barnet’s biggest challenges, providing affordable care as well as cheaper housing options.”

Though the majority of householders are elderly, the scheme also caters for those with special needs, with most expected to receive 40 hours of help with gardening, laundry and shopping, among other tasks.

All housesharers go through a careful vetting system including background checks and an interview before meeting their prospective householders.