Become a Host Family | UK Guardians – How to Join and What to Expect

Are you ready to Become a Host and make a difference in a young person’s life?

Hosting an international student is more than just opening your home — it’s about sharing culture, offering support, and creating lifelong memories. At UK Guardians, we’re always looking for caring families to join our trusted host network across the UK.

Whether you’re new to hosting or have experience, we’ll guide you every step of the way — from your first enquiry to welcoming your first student.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become a Host Family

Step 1: Get in Touch

Become a Host Family with UK Guardians – welcoming an international student into your home.

Contact UK Guardians through our website or call our friendly team to express your interest. We’ll explain what hosting involves, answer your questions, and check if you’re in one of our active placement areas. [email protected]

Step 2: Complete Your Application

We’ll ask you to fill in an application form with details about your home, household members, and the type of student you’d like to host.

Become a Host

Host family completing application to become part of UK Guardians’ hosting programme

Step 3: Home Visit and Safeguarding Checks

UK Guardians host family sharing a game of cards with international student during stay.

Our team will visit your home to ensure it’s safe, comfortable, and welcoming. All adults aged 16+ in your household will need a DBS check, which UK Guardians will arrange and pay for. You’ll also need to provide two references — one personal and one professional.

Step 4: Training and Support

Before hosting, you’ll complete free Safeguarding and Prevent training. This ensures every host meets the AEGIS Gold Standard, the highest level of safety and care for international students.

Step 5: Welcome Your First Student!

A friendly host family sitting together with a smiling student in a warm, welcoming home environment. Become a Host – caring and supportive at UK Guardians.

Once approved, we’ll match you with a student based on your location, preferences, and availability. We’ll give you arrival details, provide ongoing guidance, and ensure you’re supported 24/7.

What to Expect as a Host

Competitive Rates – Payments are made directly into your account every Friday.
Flexible Hosting Periods – Host for a few days, weeks, or longer.
Cultural Exchange – Meet students aged 12–17 from around the world.
Full Support – 24/7 emergency line and a dedicated team always on hand.
Peace of Mind – UK Guardians handles all safeguarding, training, and admin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I host?
We work with families across the UK, especially near key schools and travel routes. Safe, well-connected areas are ideal.
How many students can I host?
You can host up to three international students at once, as long as all safety and welfare standards are met.
How long do students stay?
Stays range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the programme.
What will I earn?
Host families receive competitive weekly payments directly to their bank account.
Do I get training and support?
Yes — UK Guardians provides all safeguarding training and is available 24/7 for emergencies or advice.
Do I need special insurance?
You’ll need to inform your household insurer that you accommodate paying guests and provide proof of cover.
What happens if I already host for another organisation?
That’s fine, but you’ll need to let us know. You can’t host more than three international students at once.
How do I apply to Become a Host?
Simply fill out our online form on the UK Guardians website. We’ll arrange a home visit, references, and DBS checks before adding you to our trusted host network.

More FAQs

Join Our Host Community

When you Become a Host with UK Guardians, you’re not just opening your door — you’re opening opportunities for young people to experience life in the UK safely and happily.