Volunteering Overseas

Whether you're taking a gap year after school, looking for a quick getaway over uni break, or just want a break from work and a chance to do something different, volunteering overseas is a great option.

Have a quick look online and you'll find an endless list of organisations keen for you to help them out. The great thing is many of these organisations are very flexible about the time you start your placement and the amount of time you spend there, with volunteer options ranging from as short as one week to twelve months or longer. A common length of placement offered by many organisations is three months, which works perfectly for a summer uni break or a post-school gap year. It's not too long but enough time for you to do some worthwhile work as well as get a good experience of the local culture and language.

If you're near the end of your uni degree or even midway through your career you will have valuable skills that can be put to use at any volunteer opportunity. If you've just finished school or in the early stages of your degree and not sure what you'd be able to bring to the placement don't stress; many overseas volunteer organisations do not require you to bring any skills, just a helping hand. Better yet, if you do your research you may be able to combine your overseas volunteer experience with your studies by gaining credit points for your work. Not only this but if you have a look you will be able to find organisations that can combine your overseas volunteer experience with an internship that will give you invaluable experience.

Volunteering overseas not only gives you the opportunity to give a hand in places where help is desperately needed, but it will also be an unforgettable experience for you. Often you will find the accommodation for your volunteer placement will be with a local family which enables you to really learn the language as well as gain an understanding and appreciation of the culture and people of the country you are visiting. Make sure you do your research before travelling and are confident in your knowledge of the local customs to avoid any uncomfortable moments - many things that we would not think twice about doing or saying may be offensive to other cultures. The real learning, however, will be done during your time away, so make the most of every moment!

For our other insurance policies, please visit our travel insurance page.