Host Family Vacancy
Host Family Vacancy
Duration: Season 2026/27
Location: Must be within the OX postcode with commutability to Oxford United Training Centre, Oxford Road, Oxford, OX4 2LT
Application Closing Date: Ongoing
Role Summary
Oxford United are calling on supportive local families to become a vital part of the Club’s journey by opening their homes to our Academy players for the upcoming 2026/27 season.
As our next generation of U’s talent continue their development at the Oxford United Training Centre, we’re looking for host families to provide a safe, welcoming and supportive home environment for players aged 16 to 18.
Whether you can offer a long-term stay or support on a shorter-term basis, we’d love to hear from you. Host families play a crucial role in helping young players transition into life off the pitch, providing stability and care as they focus on their football development and pursue their ambitions.
There are a number of important safeguarding and welfare requirements in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all players, and full guidance and ongoing support will be provided by the Club throughout the hosting process.
If you have the space, warmth and commitment to support our young talent, we’d love for you to become part of the Oxford United family.
Accommodation requirements vary from short-term (one-night stays) to long-term (5-7 nights per week). We are looking for families willing to provide either or both types of placements. Each player must be provided with a private room. Additionally, host households must be non-smoking.
Requirements and Responsibilities
- Provide a homely and welcoming environment for our young players.
- Support players by encouraging basic independent living skills, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
- Offer nutritious meals in accordance with the Academy’s dietary guidelines.
- Report any welfare concerns to the Academy Safeguarding and Head of Player Care team via My Concern.
- Include players in family life as much as they feel comfortable.
- Allow the club to conduct inspections of the property.
- Adhere to the club’s guidelines and expectations for host families, players, and parents.
- As part of the recruitment process, Oxford United will conduct house visits to assess the suitability of homes and ensure they meet the necessary hosting requirements.
Safeguarding
Oxford United Football Club is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults. This commitment is fully endorsed by the Club’s board, ensuring that all club-related activities occur in a safe environment where individuals are
protected from harm or abuse.
All potential host families will be subject to:
- Satisfactory reference checks
- Enhanced DBS checks
- Mandatory safeguarding training
Additionally, households must provide proof of gas servicing and comply with other health and safety regulations.
How to Apply
If you are interested in becoming a host family or require further information, please contact:
Helen Laughton, Academy Executive Assistant
Email: hlaughton@oufc.co.uk