Shared living: a social innovation strengthening communities!
As housing costs rise, social isolation increases, and the cost of living continues to climb, new solutions are emerging. Among them, shared living based on mutual support stands out as a practical, human, and accessible response.
Built on the concept of housing in exchange for services, this form of social innovation allows people to reduce housing costs while creating meaningful connections. A modern alternative that transforms both daily life and society.
Discover how this model works, why it is attracting more and more people, and how you can benefit from it today.
What is social innovation?
Social innovation refers to new solutions designed to meet social needs that are insufficiently addressed. Unlike technological innovation, it is based on human, collaborative, and accessible models.
Its objectives are clear:
- Improve everyday life
- Reduce inequalities
- Strengthen social connections
- Encourage mutual support
Social innovation is particularly relevant in the housing sector, where challenges are increasing.
Shared living and housing in exchange for services perfectly illustrate this approach: a simple, practical solution built on mutual support.
Social innovation applied to housing
In the housing sector, social innovation means rethinking how people live together to address several challenges:
- Lack of affordable housing
- Social isolation
- Rising cost of living
- Need for daily support
The model of housing in exchange for services provides a direct response to these issues.
Housing in exchange for services: a simple and effective model
The concept is simple: a person with available housing (the Host) welcomes another person (the Guest) in exchange for services.
- Help with daily tasks
- Companionship for someone living alone
- Pet care or home maintenance
- Gardening or small repairs
To learn more, visit housing in exchange for services.
ToitChezMoi: a driver of social transformation
ToitChezMoi is more than just a matching platform. It is a true social impact actor, actively working on several fronts:
- Fighting social isolation by encouraging human connection, especially for seniors
- Improving access to housing for students and people with limited budgets
- Promoting intergenerational living
- Valuing skills beyond financial means
- Optimising the use of available housing
This model contributes to building a more collaborative, inclusive, and sustainable society.
A real collective and local impact
Shared living benefits not only individuals but also communities and local territories.
- Strengthens local social connections
- Encourages social and generational diversity
- Optimises unused housing
- Supports local collaborative economies
It helps revitalise both urban and rural areas while addressing real needs.
A flexible and accessible model
One of the main strengths of housing in exchange for services is its flexibility. It adapts to many situations:
- Short or long-term stays
- Urban or rural environments
- Occasional or regular needs
Accessible to everyone, this model suits students, professionals, seniors, and people going through life transitions.
It allows each person to find a solution tailored to their needs, without rigid constraints.
Why is shared living becoming so popular?
- Affordable or even free accommodation
- Building social connections and reducing isolation
- Giving more meaning to housing
- Valuing personal skills
A safe and structured model
Housing in exchange for services is based on trust, but also on a clear framework.
To ensure a safe experience, follow best practices in the safety guide.
How to get started
- Create a profile
- Define your needs or services
- Connect with compatible profiles
Start now:
Offer accommodation or Find accommodation.
Conclusion: a new way of living together
Shared living goes beyond housing. It helps rebuild connections, encourages mutual support, and contributes to a more human society.
With ToitChezMoi, anyone can take part in this transformation while finding a practical housing solution.