How VSO placements work

It’s the question most people ask themselves at some point on their journey to becoming a volunteer: can one person really make a difference?

The answer is ‘yes’. But only if they’re the right person in the right place at the right time.

We work overseas in partnership with local organisations that help poor people. Instead of just sending skilled people out and hoping they’ll land somewhere they’ll be useful, we ask those organisations what they need. Then we work to find the right person to fill that need.

The best support available

We believe people in developing countries deserve the best support available, so the roles our volunteers undertake are demanding.

Unlike many international development workers, our volunteers live and work at the heart of their community, living in similar conditions to their colleagues. This provides genuine insight into local customs and challenges, helping you become accepted into the community.

As a volunteer, your ideas and experience count. We rely on you to apply creativity and insights to help shape the development of your role, and those of volunteers who may follow in your footsteps. Find out more about the impact our volunteers make.

What job will I be doing?

We place people from all sorts of professions in a variety of roles with our partner organisations. You’ll work directly with your local employer, reporting to a local manager and supporting your colleagues’ development. Of course, your local VSO office is always there to support you should the need arise.

The details of your placement will depend on your professional experience and skills. Take a look at our opportunities to see examples of what you could be doing.