Homesharing Czech Republic

Homesharing is a community-based form of respite care for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. It is based on a „triangle of trust“ between the family, the host, and the person with a disability.

What is homesharing?

Unlike traditional institutional services, homesharing is built on natural, long-term relationships. A host (an individual, couple, or family) undergoes thorough screening and training to regularly welcome a person with a disability into their own home.

Key features of the Czech model:

Becoming part of the family: The guest becomes an integral part of the host’s household for a set period. They participate in normal daily activities alongside all family members, creating a natural social environment.
Short-term respite: Currently, in the Czech Republic, homesharing focuses on short-term stays – typically a few hours in the afternoon, one weekend day, or a full weekend.
Mutual enrichment: It is not merely a service; it is a shared experience that enriches the lives of the host’s entire family as well as the guest.

Our Roots and Partners

The Czech model of homesharing is deeply inspired by the long-standing Irish tradition of Home Sharing, a cornerstone of community care in Ireland for decades.

The introduction and implementation of this model in the Czech Republic were made possible thanks to the professional guidance of our Irish partners:

Ability West

Brothers of Charity Services Ireland

Standards and Quality

In 2024, we reached a significant milestone by publishing the „Essential Methodology of Homesharing“. This comprehensive guide sets the standards for safe practice, screening, and matching in the Czech Republic. The document is available for download on our website for professionals and organizations interested in implementing this model.

Our Mission and Advocacy

Our goal is to ensure that homesharing remains a safe, high-quality, and sustainable form of support. We work closely with experts and state authorities to:

● Establish Quality Standards: Ensuring that screening, matching, and support processes remain professional as the model expands.
● Secure Systemic Funding: Advocating for stable state support to make homesharing a permanent and accessible option for families across the country.
● Promote Community Care: Raising awareness of homesharing as a meaningful way to bridge the gap between the public and people with disabilities.

About the Network: Homesharing Czech Republic

We are a network of non-governmental organizations dedicated to the development and systemic support of homesharing in the Czech Republic. Our collaboration is built on shared values, safety standards, and a commitment to high-quality practice.

Děti úplňku (Children of the Full Moon): An organization striving to improve the quality of life for people with autism and intellectual disabilities and their families through advocacy and systemic change. In 2018, we introduced the homesharing model to the Czech Republic. We currently implement the project in Prague and serve as the network’s methodological leader.

CPKP (Centre for Community Work): Experts in community development and methodological guidance for social initiatives. CPKP joined the homesharing initiative in 2021 in the Central Bohemian Region and remains a key partner in community outreach and professional development.

MAS Pošumaví: The newest member of our network (joined in 2023), implementing homesharing in the Pošumaví region under the auspices of the Local Action Group (MAS) model.