What is expected of me in terms of monitoring the welfare of my student?
The Host Family should notify HFS London of any concerns relating to their student’s welfare during their time in the home. Examples include non-attendance at class, illness/health issues and general homesickness. In such a scenario HFS London will inform the student’s place of study and will endeavour to resolve any such issues promptly and with sensitivity.
Please note that students aged over 18 should be allowed to stay out late or even spend the night away from home. They should, however, always advise you if they are going to be late for meals or home very late.
Should the Host Family have any emergency concerns about their student’s welfare, the Host Family should contact HFS London on the emergency contact number provided at the time of booking. This number should only be used for concerns of such urgency that they cannot wait to be dealt with during office hours (Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm).
Where a student is under 18 years old the Host Family will be required to sign a declaration to confirm that all household members over 18 years old are suitable to host students at this age group. HFS London may also request that a Criminal Records Bureau check be carried out to ensure suitability to host students under 18.
Although it is very rare that we place students under 16 years old, there may be further responsibilities in the supervision of such students e.g. collection at meeting point near the home. Any such responsibility will be duly communicated to the Host Family in advance to inform their decision as to whether to accept the booking.
Whatever the age of the student it is imperative that the Host Family is present in the home for the duration of the placement. If you expect to be away from your home for more than 24 hours while a student is with you, please inform HFS London immediately. Depending on the circumstances, HFS London may have to relocate the student.