Make a difference supporting charities abroad

VSO is an international development charity that sends skilled people abroad instead of money to deliver long-term sustainable support to professionals and organisations to enable them to move out of poverty.

VSO matches professionals, based on their skills and experience, with organisations abroad to facilitate the sharing of ideas, skills and experiences.

How It Works

VSO has several volunteer programmes to choose from. Professionals have a choice of either short-term or long-term positions with charities abroad. A short-term position provides about a six-month placement, while long-term volunteer roles can be as long as two years.

What to Expect

Unlike some volunteer organizations, it is imperative that you are skilled. In most cases, at least two years of professional experience is required in an area where VSO works. You will not get paid, but your costs including flights, accommodation and a local living allowance are covered.

Fulfilment, perspective and a sense of making a difference are other common benefits participants mention. You will live and work in conditions similar to those experienced by your colleagues in the community where you are based.