Why do I need to set Ground Rules?
Host Families are strongly advised to provide Ground Rules to each student staying with them from the outset; to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure that students are clear on the house rules.
New Host Families sometimes feel that Ground Rules are quite a formal introduction to the home and their family life. It is, however, advisable to have some structure and guidelines for any new student that help avoid misunderstanding and possible cultural differences. In certain countries, for example, smoking indoors is much more socially acceptable than it is here in the UK. How the Ground Rules are delivered is up to the individual Host Family, but we would suggest that they are discussed upon the student’s arrival in the home.
Ground Rules should be set around the parameters of the HFS London Host Family Agreement that you will have signed, the HFS London Host Family Handbook and any house rules that are particular to your home.
Please note that students should be allowed to share all the communal areas in your home e.g. living room and/or lounge. The kitchen area is not sufficient communal space and HFS London will unlikely be able to register families that restrict use of communal areas in the home, as this is against the spirit of the ‘home away from home’ experience.
Areas to consider when setting Ground Rules for your home:
1) Policy on use of telephone for incoming and outgoing calls
2) Policy for internet usage
3) Times for using the bath/shower
4) Keeping the bathroom tidy and clear of toiletries
5) Where, if at all, smoking is permitted
6) Whether visitors are welcome and until what time
7) Guests of the opposite sex
8) Times for breakfast and, if applicable, evening meals
9) What to do when a student expects to be home late
10) Rules on overnight guests
11) Number of wash loads allowed per week
12) Noise levels at particular times of the day
13) Clear guidelines on where food will be stored
14) Whether food is allowed in the student’s room
15) Reminder to return house keys before departure
Some Host Families will include the Ground Rules as part of a Welcome Pack that may also include information on directions to shops, supermarkets, chemists, the post office, local bank, libraries, leisure centres and internet cafés.
Generally, the more flexible a Host Family is with a student, the more they feel at home. At the same time, it is important that students understand the boundaries and fit in with the normal running of your home.
How the Ground Rules are delivered is as important as the content you choose to include therein. Please try and run through Ground Rules in a way that is informal and welcoming. Ground Rules should form part of an overall welcome and introduction to life in London and the family home.