Our work in the UK

VSO isn’t just about volunteering overseas. So what else do we do? 
 

Increase understanding of global issues

We’re passionate about helping people increase understanding of the global issues that matter to them. If you want to raise awareness in your school or community of the factors that keep millions of people in poverty, our active communities team will give you the expertise and financial support you need to succeed.

Campaign for change

Our Women Matter campaign saw 2,500 VSO supporters contacting their MPs asking for women to be put at the heart of the Department for International Development’s(DFID) new HIV and AIDS strategy. And it worked! The Government made some significant promises that will improve life for women affected by HIV and AIDS in the world’s poorest countries. Our current campaign – Help Women Help the World – calls on the UN to create a new women’s agency that would help women to fulfil their potential.

Work with diaspora organisations

We share our expertise in volunteering and global education with diaspora organisations in the UK such as Africa Foundation Stone and the Asian Foundation for Philanthropy. This strengthens their own volunteering initiatives, giving people the opportunity to share skills and experience in their countries of heritage.

Supporter groups

There are over 40 VSO supporter groups across the UK, from Cumbria to Cornwall. Members use their time and talents to raise money to send more volunteers overseas, increase understanding of global issues within their own local communities and encourage people to explore volunteering overseas with VSO.