For those on a small budget, shared flats can be a cheaper alternative to renting a full apartment.
If you are coming to Britain alone, flat sharing is often a good option as you can live cheaply and meet new people. Flat-sharing is most common among students and young professionals, especially in big cities (in London, prices are so high that it is a necessity for the majority of young single people). Be aware that by sharing the apartment you will also have to share the communal facilities (kitchen, living room and usually bathroom).