We’re looking for caring and committed local residents— preferably in the CF14 and CF23 postcodes—to provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for our young players, where they can live, study, and thrive around their training schedules.
Our host families are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, playing a vital role in helping our U18 players grow both on and off the pitch. By offering a warm and welcoming home, you’ll be helping them transition from living with their families to developing independence and essential life skills.
WHAT'S INVOLVED
- Single-room accommodation during pre-season and throughout the football season.
- Nutritious evening meals, occasional lunches, and access to laundry facilities.
- Opportunities for full-time hosting (for signed apprentices) or flexible part-time arrangements (for trialists or holiday cover)
THOSE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED IT
Sarah Early-Nightingale (Player Care Manager): “Working closely with our amazing host families and seeing how the boys thrive in these environments is something very special in my role. We’re so fortunate at Cardiff City to have such a strong and supportive group of people who often stay in touch with the players."
Jackie Taylor (Host Family): “Being a host household means more than just offering a place to stay. I take pride in creating a supportive and comfortable environment where young athletes can focus on their training and personal growth. From cooking meals to doing laundry, I try to make sure they feel truly at home.”
Dan Higgs (U18 Scholar): “Living with Jackie has been transformative. Her support—especially with meals—has helped me fuel my body properly for training and recovery. Being away from home has helped me mature and become more independent. The convenience of living close to the training ground has made a huge difference to my daily routine and performance.”
Jake Hobson (U18 Scholar) (Pictured): “Starting with my host family last year has helped me in so many ways—from easier commutes to training and matches, to relieving my parents of regular travel from Bristol. Having a generous host who cooks nutritious meals has helped me recover and perform at my best. Sharing the experience with teammates like Ronan Kpakio has made it even better.”
Cardiff City FC is fully committed to safeguarding the welfare of young people and adults. We expect all staff, volunteers, and visitors to share this commitment.
If you’d like to make a meaningful difference in a young athlete’s life, [click here to complete the form], and our Player Care Manager will be in touch.