As the cost of living continues to rise in 2025, with energy, heating, and food prices showing no sign of easing, more people are turning to flexible part-time work to top up their income.
Among them are Banbury couple Sheila and Graham Jackson, who found an unexpected passion in retirement that’s given their finances — and lifestyle — a welcome boost.
The couple told GB News that they have been able to use homesitting to earn income that helps supplement their pensions.
The pair, aged 75 and 74 respectively, have spent nearly a decade as professional homesitters, caring for other people’s properties and pets while the owners are away.
The Jacksons now undertake around eight homesitting assignments annually through Homesitters Ltd. They describe their experiences as “holidays with responsibilities,” enjoying travel whilst caring for homes and pets.
The arrangement allows them to explore the UK whilst fulfilling their desire to be around animals
HOMESITTERS LTD
“We love that we can see different parts of the country without the expense of hotels or rentals,” Jackson said
The arrangement allows them to explore the UK whilst fulfilling their desire to be around animals. Jackson appreciates the structure it brings to their retirement.
For the couple, homesitting offers the perfect balance of freedom and purpose. They travel to various locations throughout the year, experiencing different environments and bonding with a variety of pets. The financial aspect of homesitting has proven particularly beneficial for the Jacksons in retirement.
Jackson added: “It’s a fantastic way to enjoy retirement without breaking the bank.”
By eliminating accommodation costs while travelling, the couple can explore new places affordably. There’s also a modest income benefit that helps their finances.
The couple have been able to use homesitting to earn income that helps supplement their pensions
HOMESITTERS LTD
They said: “Homesitting does save us some money on electricity, and the income helps to supplement our pensions a little.”
This combination of cost savings and supplemental income provides valuable financial flexibility.
For many retirees like the Jacksons, finding ways to stretch pension income whilst maintaining an active lifestyle can be challenging. However homesitting offers a practical solution to this common retirement concern.
The financial rewards are substantial, with homesitters earning a minimum of £333.06 for a two-week assignment without pets.
Those willing to care for pets can earn even more, with assignments involving two dogs and a cat paying £367.92 for a fortnight.
These earnings include a daily food allowance for 1 hour 45 minutes of duties each day. Additional benefits include reimbursement for mileage costs, covering both the preliminary visit and travel to and from assignments.
The Jackson’s have found a fulfilling way to remain active, engaged and connected
HOMESITTERS LTD
During their assignments, the Jacksons find plenty of time to pursue their hobbies such as crafting, completing jigsaws, reading, and listening to audiobooks while caring for homes.
This balance allows them to discover new places whilst working on their own terms.
The Jackson’s have found a fulfilling way to remain active, engaged and connected. Their homesitting adventures have created a retirement lifestyle that combines travel with purpose.
Jackson joked: “We are skilled not only in looking after pets but can also tackle any TV, dishwasher, and oven!.”
This practical skill set has served them well during their assignments across the country.
For Sheila and Graham, retirement has become an opportunity rather than a limitation. Through homesitting, they’ve crafted a lifestyle that keeps them connected to their love of animals while exploring new horizons.
