Taking on a lodger can be a rewarding experience for both parties involved. For trainees, finding suitable accommodation can be a stressful and time-consuming process, as they typically have just a few weeks to find a room before their secondment starts. Many turn to platforms like SpareRoom.com in their search, but the combination of hybrid working models and the scarcity of suitable accommodation can make this search even more challenging. By offering your spare room to a trainee, you can help alleviate this stress, providing them with a stable and convenient place to stay during their secondment with your company.
MDS Trainees as Lodgers
MDS trainees come from all over the country (and even the world), and are often moving to locations where they won’t know anyone. Living with a co-worker creates an immediate sense of community, offering the trainee a built-in support network as they navigate their new role and environment. This arrangement fosters a sense of camaraderie and can make the transition to a new job and city much smoother.
Benefits of Becoming a Landlord
Beyond the personal fulfilment of supporting a young professional, there are tangible benefits for you as a homeowner. Through the ‘Rent a Room’ scheme, you can earn up to £7,500 per year tax-free for letting out accommodation in your home (learn more at gov.uk). While MDS cannot accept responsibility for them as tenants, all trainees have undergone a thorough recruitment process by our team to be selected for our programmes, so they are typically reliable, responsible and professional.
Our trainees are typically placed on six month secondments, starting in April and October. If you’re new to having a lodger, this timeframe offers a chance to test the waters without a long-term commitment. It would also be beneficial if you’re a seasonal worker and may be away for extended periods of time; a lodger can double as a house-sitter, providing peace of mind that your home is secure and well-maintained in your absence.
In short, opening your home to a trainee is not just about providing accommodation; it’s about creating a mutually beneficial arrangement that supports the next generation of professionals while offering you financial benefits and the satisfaction of making a positive impact.
More Information
We recommend visiting Citizens Advice for more information about taking in a lodger. Ask potential tenants or lodgers for references and follow them up before signing any agreement. While you can set the rent at any amount, it’s essential to agree on the figure with your tenant in advance; we suggest around £500 per month.
If you are interested in being listed on our database of landlords for lodgers, please fill out this form.
