About Volunteering
We know it can be a big decision to go on a volunteering trip - so everything you need to know about volunteering with us is here.
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Take a look through and if you have any questions you can get in touch with one of our team.
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Whether you're volunteering in the UK or abroad, our focus is to help you gain confidence, skills and friendships for life.
Why volunteer with us?
Our experiences are about creating an opportuntity for you that lasts far beyond the actual trip itself. We believe that our expertise in supporting people to volunteer brings about something that can be truly life-changing.
Find confidence you never knew you had, build friendships that you didn't expect and grow in ways you never thought possible.
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Supporting you to volunteer
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With over 80 years' experience of supporting people to work and volunteer abroad, we are passionate about how experiencing a new culture can bring connection and give you a new perspective.
Above all, we'll support you at each step, making sure that you feel safe and so you can focus on enjoying your project and all the benefits that it brings.
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We offer opportunities to take part in local community projects abroad and in the UK and there are lots of choices on how long a project you choose as well as a variety of options for different budgets.
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As a charity and not for profit, we also focus on keeping costs low and ensuring that we continue to expand our offer to as many people as possible.
How to apply
1. Choose a project
Click on 'Apply now' add your project to your backpack and complete the online application form.
2. Pay and confirm
Once you've applied online you'll need to pay our £250 project fee to confirm your place.
3. Get ready
We'll be with you every step of the way with support before you head on your adventure of a lifetime
Pricing - how much does a trip cost?​
Our trips start from as little as £250. Each project has an individual price which is listed on the project page.
This cost will cover things like accommodation, food and training. However some of our host partners subsidise this cost so it is free. Flights and insurance are a separate cost.
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We know that financing a trip like this can take careful planning and thought.
We're here to support you with this. Find out more about the detailed costs involved, how to raise funds and how we can support you on our pricing information webpage.
Your safety on a volunteering project
We know that it can feel daunting going to a new place and with new people. Your safety is our number one priority.
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We only offer projects through our global network of volunteering organisations through trusted partners. Each project has dedicated procedures to follow in case of an emergency.
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That's also why we offer support and guidance throughout your trip, so that you know what to expect and what to do if you have any concerns.
If you'd like to have a chat about safety before you do sign up, please do get in touch.
Preparing for your trip
Whether it's your first trip, or your 50th trip away, preparation is always crucial. We'll be supporting you throughout with information and guidance, depending on where you are going. But here's a few key things that you'll need to think about.
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Before you go on a volunteering trip
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You may need to book pre-travel vaccines, organise a visa and your flights or travel to your volunteering project.​​
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It's also really important to think about staying healthy while you are volunteering. This means making sure you have the right clothing and protection from the weather.
If it's going to be hot, this means making sure you have suitable sun protection or if it's going to be cold, having plenty of layers and warm, waterproof clothing. We can help you with a kit list if you need it.
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Staying well while you are volunteering
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You'll also want to think about important things like staying well fed and hydrated, and if you have any existing medical conditions such as allergies to let us know in advance, and making sure you have all the medication you need whilst you are away.
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While it's very unlikely that anything will go wrong while you're away, it's always best to be prepared and know what to do in advance if something doesn't go to plan.
That's also why you have support from us throughout your volunteering experience as well as the host organisation of the project. This means if you fall ill, or need medical assistance, or anything else unexpected there's help on hand.
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What else can help me get ready for my volunteering experience?
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Everyone is different, so there will be some parts of getting ready for a new experience that will depend on what you need individually.
It's a good idea to think about whether you might feel homesick and what could support you through that. Or if you have any concerns or questions, write them all down, and that way we can help you as you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
For parents: what you need to know​
If you're a parent of a young person who is looking to volunteer, we understand that a trip away from home is a big step. As a charity that's been involved with volunteering for over 80 years, our main aim has always been to look ensure a safe environment where volunteers can make a difference and learn. You'll be supported through the following:
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A safe and structured experience​
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Emergency UK support via telephone or email
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On-site training when necessary
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Dedicated disability, dietary and healthcare tracker for all UK volunteers on project
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Guidance throughout the whole process from application, to post project support