Voluntary work abroad

What kind of voluntary work can I do abroad?
Where can I do it?
How do I go about it?
How much does it cost?
What will I get out of it?
Further information

What kind of voluntary work can I do abroad?
The volunteering opportunities abroad are as numerous as the types of job you can do here in the UK. Some of the most popular voluntary jobs are:

• Teaching - often English as a second language, or coaching sports
• Conservation work - tracking animals, assisting a vet, carrying out scientific research, etc
• Community development - participating in a project run by locals to improve their community. This could include teaching, planting trees, training locals in useful skills, or construction.
• Care - often of children (eg AIDS orphans)

For professionals, the range of volunteering opportunities is even wider. Many organisations, like VSO recruit volunteers with specific professional skills. It isn't just doctors, nurses and engineers - professional volunteers come from all industries.

Where can I do it?

Volunteering opportunities are available worldwide, but most international volunteers go to developing countries where the need is usually greater. Popular destinations include:

• Eastern Europe
• Central America
• South America
• South Asia
• South-East Asia
• Africa

How do I go about it?

It is possible to organise your own volunteer work, but almost all volunteers go with an established organisation. Why?

• The organisation can help you find a project which is going to benefit both you and the local community.
• They can often organise things like your visas, insurance and even flights. Even if you organise them yourself, they can advise you on what you need.
• A representative of the organisation is almost always available in your destination so can provide help and support.
• Whether the organisation runs its own projects, or places volunteers in existing projects abroad, there is already an established relationship between you and the project.

You can find organisations that offer voluntary work here

Back to top

How much does it cost?

That depends on who you go with. Some organisations don't charge anything, and others charge a fee for each project, from several hundred to several thousand pounds. This fee might include:

• Flights
• Accommodation
• Training
• Loan of equipment
• A contribution to the project
• Travel essentials, such as visas or insurance

All placements are different, so talk to the organisation to find out exactly what your fee includes.

What will I get out of it?

Many volunteer projects include some formal training (and some of this training you can undertake yourself). Training might include:

• A TEFL or TESOL course (to teach English as a Foreign or Second Language)
• Learning the language and/or culture of your host country
• Diving qualification (for marine research)

There may also be training specific to your placement, eg how to teach your particular skill, or dealing with refugees.

The project may also include optional extra activities, such as:

• Cultural activities, including dance lessons or cookery school
• Expeditions and trekking
• Adventure or water sports

Further information

• Find companies that help you get a voluntary placement abroad.
• Need to know something else? Email us.
• Back to top