At the start of the 2011–12 season, Hodgson had a trial with Conference North club Boston United, playing in the second half in their 3–3 pre-season friendly game away at Arnold Town on 12 July 2011. Hodgson signed for Conference North club Hinckley United in August 2011, having impressed whilst on trial with the club. During his trial spell, Hodgson scored in a 3–0 win over Quorn in a pre-season friendly. In September 2011, he was released by Hinckley, subsequently joining Northern Premier League Division One South club Belper Town. He made his debut in the 2–0 away loss to Sutton Coldfield Town on 17 September, replacing Lee Morris as a substitute in the 55th minute. He then joined Shepshed Dynamo on 30 September.
