Host families come in all shapes and sizes. They can be families with young children, retired couples whose children have flown the nest, childless couples, or single mothers. Single men may not be host parents because of the rules of the national charity.

We host children in pairs, for one month. It is sometimes possible for two families to host jointly, for two weeks each. The children are typically aged between 9 and 13, and it is usually possible to request the age or gender of the children to suit the circumstances of the host family.

Children have medical clearance to come to the UK. Each group comes with an interpreter, who is often their English teacher. They speak limited English, but this rarely causes a problem. Miming and signing gets the message over, often with a lot of hilarity! The children also learn English phrases very quickly, and your own children will be speaking a little Russian by the end of the month.

We organise an adventurous acitivty programme for the children while they are in the UK. Host families and their children are welcome to participate in this programme, which can be a lot of fun!

Criminal Record Bureau Checks

All members of the host family aged 16 or over living at the home the children will stay in are required to undertake an enhanced CRB disclosure.

If you did something silly when you were a youngster, don't worry! Our interest is child protection, not finding skeletons in cupboards.

If you would like more information, please speak to or email Dr Jane, our Host Family Co-ordinator.