Carlisle United Football Club are looking for warm, welcoming host families to provide a safe, supportive and homely environment for our Academy players aged 16 to 18 who are required to live away from home during the football season.
This is a rewarding role and a vital part of the care and development of our young players, both on and off the pitch.
What the role involves
As a host family, you will be asked to:
- Provide accommodation from the end of June to the beginning of May each season, typically five to six nights per week
- Provide nutritious breakfast, evening meal and snacks in line with Club nutritional guidance
- Provide the player with their own furnished private bedroom
- Include players in family life where possible and as they feel comfortable
- Build trusted, open relationships and communicate proactively with the Club
- Accommodate regular welfare visits and inspections from Club staff during the season
- Adapt to the flexible schedule of young players during the football season
- Report any welfare concerns promptly to the Club's Designated Safeguarding Officer
- Promote and model a strong anti-discriminatory approach at all times
- Live within a five-mile radius of Brunton Park, and either on a direct public transport route or within walking distance
What we are looking for
It would be great if you had:
- Experience working with, caring for or supporting young people
- An understanding of the emotional and well-being challenges young athletes face
- A child-centred approach and a genuine interest in player welfare
- The capacity and willingness to accommodate more than one player, where appropriate
- Flexibility, patience and good communication skills
What you will receive in return
- Competitive remuneration (daily allowance per player)
- Regular and responsive contact and support from the Club's safeguarding team
- Safeguarding training provided by the Club at no cost to you, including an induction before your first placement begins
- The satisfaction of supporting a young person's development, on and off the pitch
If you're ready to offer a safe, supportive home and make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Our commitment to safeguarding
Carlisle United Football Club are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Host families are expected to fully share this commitment.
This role involves working with young people under the age of 18 and is subject to:
- An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check with a Children's Barred List check for the applicant
- A DBS check for all household members aged 16 and over
- A home suitability assessment and inspection before placement commences
- Ongoing welfare visits and an annual suitability review
Clearance through the FA DBS system must be obtained before any arrangements commence. Applicants must disclose all previous convictions, including spent convictions.
A previous conviction will not automatically disqualify an application; each case is considered individually.
How to apply
Return the application form HERE to:
Sally MacDonald
Designated Safeguarding Officer
Carlisle United Football Club, Brunton Park, Warwick Road, Carlisle, CA1 1LL
Email: Sally.MacDonald@carlisleunited.co.uk
Applications are welcomed from individuals and families of all backgrounds. We are committed to encouraging applications from diverse and representative applicants.
