Local Link Scheme
What is Local Link?
Local Link is the opportunity for you to meet local people here in Bristol, make friends with them and even visit them in their home. As an international student you may not easily meet local people, but this scheme links you up with friendly hosts who will help you to settle into your life in Bristol and enable you to see inside a local home.
“I learned a lot about UK culture and made a new friend.”
Who are the hosts?
Hosts are local families, couples and individuals who support the work of BISC and offer friendship to international students for the duration of their stay in Bristol. Many of the hosts have been involved with the Local Link scheme for many years, and have been checked by BISC as to their suitability.
What does Local Link involve?
This is quite flexible and is determined by you and your host. The main aim is for you to get to know each other, so they can help you to feel settled in Bristol and to learn more about English culture and language. Depending on your host, this may include meals in the host’s home or visits / trips in Bristol and the local area. Many students stay in touch with their hosts even when they have returned home.
How do I get involved?
Fill in the form below! Please give as much information as possible. Hosting usually starts at the beginning of term in October and runs throughout the year, but you can join any time. Both hosts and students must agree to our Code of Conduct when they sign up.
What happens next?
After receiving your application we try to link you with a suitable host. This process may take some time, so please be patient. We will email you to let you know the name of your host who will then contact you directly to arrange a time to meet with you. If at any time you wish to withdraw from the Local Link scheme, please let the BISC office know as soon as possible. Please always communicate clearly with the host we give you.
COVID SAFETY
Please note: while Covid 19 continues to have an impact, some hosts may prefer to meet you outdoors or in a café, so please respect their wishes. Students and hosts must take every precaution to keep each other safe when they are meeting.
Registration Form
Please fill in all parts to this form below so that we can match you with a suitable family. We will be in touch soon with details about the person/ people we have linked you with. If you cannot see the form below please click on the link HERE and open the form in a separate page.
“I learned many names of flowers, bushes and heard interesting and fascinating stories about British history, literature and more!”
“It is very much a two way benefit. The student enjoys the hospitality and learns much about English culture and customs, and the hosts in turn learn much about the students home country and is enriched by this international friendship.”
“I was invited to a beautiful, cozy home and Helen made me feel special by providing delicious food.”