Trust appeals for families to help change lives during mental health recovery

11 May 26

A spare room, a warm welcome and a willingness to help can be enough to support someone through mental health recovery.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, HPFT is encouraging people across Hertfordshire to find out more about becoming a host family. The Host Families service gives people the chance to stay in an ordinary family home at a difficult time in their lives, helping them avoid a hospital admission or leave hospital sooner.

Host families provide something many people need during recovery: a calm space, everyday routines and the feeling of being included. With professional mental health support always in place, hosts offer reassurance, stability and a sense of normal life while someone gets back on their feet.

Local host family Dixie and Joe from Hemel Hempstead have been welcoming guests into their home since 2017 and say hosting has been one of the most rewarding things they have done.

“We are fairly relaxed and enjoy sharing life experiences and everyday routines. Sometimes what people need most is to feel safe, included and part of a normal home. Hosting allows us to offer that while knowing professional support is always there.”

Another family, Jackie and David, have been hosting since 2013. The said: “All we ask is that our guests are respectful both of ourselves and of our home during their stay.”

Nosheen Zia Ul-Haq, Host Families Manager at HPFT said:

“Hospital care is not always the best or only option for people who are struggling with their mental health. Host families play a vital role by offering a homely alternative that supports recovery, dignity, and independence.

“We are keen to hear from people across Hertfordshire who think they might be able to help and welcome enquiries from single people, couples or households with more than one adult. What matters most is a willingness to provide a welcoming, calm space where someone can recover at their own pace.”

Host families provide a spare room, time and a welcoming home for a few weeks. In return, they receive payment as well as training and ongoing support from specialist NHS mental health professionals. Hosts are not expected to provide clinical care.

The Host Families service is built around the idea that recovery is supported by ordinary, everyday life. Guests are encouraged to keep in touch with friends and family, maintain daily living skills and stay connected to their local community, while also being supported by NHS mental health teams.

If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a host family, please visit www.hpft.nhs.uk/host-families

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Trust appeals for families to help change lives during mental health recovery