Become a host family
Become a host family
Hosting is not complicated, but it does ask something of you: a spare room, three meals a day and genuine interest in a young person.
Start here
What hosting involves
The room, the meals, the routine and the reality.
Read moreChecks and training
DBS*, home visit, references and safeguarding training.
Read moreSupport for hosts
Someone to call, and someone who visits.
Read moreApply to host
Start your application online and we will call you to talk it through.
Apply online
* The enhanced UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks criminal records to help confirm a person’s suitability for work, including overseas applicants.
What others say
It wasn’t just about the money because it has become a way of life for me. I love it when they tell me about their families, home and country.
Common questions
What is expected of a host family?
A clean, comfortable home, a private study bedroom, three meals a day, and a genuine welcome. Most of all: an interest in the student as a person.
Do I need experience?
No. We train and support every host family, and there is always someone to call. Many of our hosts started with no experience at all and have hosted for years.
What checks are involved?
A DBS* check for every household member over 16, an interview, a home visit, references and safeguarding training. We review placements regularly.
* The enhanced UK Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks criminal records to help confirm a person’s suitability for work, including overseas applicants.
Am I paid?
Yes. Payment depends on location and the type of stay. We will explain the rates when we talk.
Apply to host
Tell us about your home and your household. We will call you to talk it through, usually within 2 working days.