Common Questions
Where can I go?
Programmes are currently available in Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia, India and Peru.
What types of programmes are available?
You can get involved in Teaching, Environmental, Culture & Community, or Healthcare.
How long do placements last?
You choose how long your placement lasts. Placements are flexible and most last from one week to one month. Then you can add on extra months on top of these as you wish. You can stay in most countries for up to 6 months These limitations are due to visa and work-permit restrictions.
When can I start?
You choose when your placement starts and finishes. Placements run throughout the year. There are no definitive deadlines for application. We generally need at least 2 months to process an application.
Is the work paid?
Our partner organizations can barely afford to pay their own staff, so these positions have to be voluntary and self-funded. Similarly we get great work experience placements for volunteers because we don't ask our partner-organizations to pay you.
What do the charges include?
Our costs include all food, accommodation and support from our expert staff at home and abroad. Our charges are important because they enable us to provide you with a good service and full support.
Are meals included in the cost?
With the exception of when you are travelling or socializing, all meals are provided and will be of a local nature.
Can I go with my friend?
Friends are most welcome and, if you like, we can arrange placements where you can live and work together.
Will I need injections?
This really depends on where you choose to go. We do however send you a suggested list of vaccinations which you should discuss with your doctor.
What age ranges take part in these projects?
Volunteers are welcome between the ages of 17 and 70. Many of our volunteers are between 25 and 40 years old.
What qualifications do I need?
No qualifications are necessary – however if you do have qualifications and would like to use them overseas, we will try and place you with an appropriate project.
Do I need to speak the local language?
No, although, it is an advantage to learn a few basic phrases but it is certainly not necessary to be at all fluent.
Do I need to be a British citizen?
Yes, we only accept British citizens with a current Criminal Records Bureau check (CRB). This is due to the fact that most of our projects involve working with children. If you do not have a current (within 3 years) we can provide one for an additional cost.
How are we chosen?
When you apply we ask you for the name and address of a referee. This will be someone who knows you well - such as an employer. We then get in touch with them and ask for a reference.
What if I have more questions?
If you have any questions or would like to discuss our programmes in more detail, please don't hesitate to contact us . If you would like to speak to us, call us on +44 (0)870 979 9000 or drop us an email.
What is the next step?
The next step is either to contact us for more information or, if you've decided definitely what you want to do, download an application form.
Are the countries safe?
The countries we operate in must be politically stable and safe. If they are not, we don't go. We are in constant contact with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as well as private security organisations.
Will I be met at the airport?
Volunteers are met either at the airport or local railway station. Please refer to the project description for further information.
What if I am ill?
If you are ill while overseas, our UK operations team will know where the best medical care can be found. You receive information on this when you first arrive, and of course you can reach our staff by telephone 24 hours a day if you fall ill. In the unlikely event that you are seriously ill, we will liaise with your insurance company and next of kin.
Can I extend my stay while overseas?
Yes. Although this depends on visa requirements and flight restrictions. This gives added flexibility. If you want to extend your placement, just talk to our office staff.
Will there be an opportunity to travel when I'm there?
Yes, you will have weekends free. Volunteers often take this opportunity to visit local places of interest. Our local staff will be able to give advice on this.
Where do I stay? Who do I stay with?
Most volunteers stay with local families or small hostels. This provides you with an insight into the local culture and helps with learning the local language. It also acts as an additional support network. You should not expect western standards but the accommodation is good by local standards. You may even be placed in the same accommodation or workplace as one or two other volunteers. Although we cannot guarantee to meet all requests, please let us know if you have a preference regarding this, or the type of area where you would like to stay.
