What to Know Before You Apply

Volunteering abroad is a meaningful experience, but it is not a casual decision. This page explains how our programs are organised, what support is in place, and what to expect before committing.

It is intended to provide clarity for anyone involved in the decision-making process.

On arrival, participants are supported by experienced local coordinators who work within their communities year-round.

Our primary long-term on-the-ground partner is The Green Lion, with whom we have worked for more than 15 years. This long-term collaboration allows us to understand how programs operate in practice and ensure consistent coordination and support.

Local teams handle:

• Arrival and orientation

• Accommodation coordination

• Daily project support

• Local guidance and problem-solving

Safety and supervision

Volunteering abroad involves adapting to new environments, cultures, and standards. While no travel is risk-free, programs are structured to prioritise preparation and support.

Key points:

• Accommodation is arranged in advance

• Orientation is provided before starting a project

• Local coordinators are available if issues arise

• Expectations are explained clearly before departure

Participants are not placed into unsupervised or unstructured situations.

Accommodation and daily life

Accommodation is typically shared and simple, reflecting local standards rather than tourist accommodation.

Participants should expect:

• Shared rooms with other volunteers (unless you booked a private room)

• Basic but comfortable living conditions

• Set meal arrangements depending on destination

• Local routines and customs

This is part of the experience and should be considered carefully before applying.

Screening and acceptance

Not everyone who applies is accepted.

Applications are reviewed based on:

• Destination and project suitability

• Availability and start dates

• Participant expectations and readiness

We do not rush people into paying before confirming suitability. A deposit is only requested after acceptance.

What is included (and what is not)

Program fees typically cover:

• Project placement

• Accommodation

• Orientation

• Airport pickup

• Local coordination and support

• Pre-departure guidance

Program fees do not usually include:

• Flights

• Visas

• Travel insurance

• Vaccinations

• Personal expenses

Full details are confirmed before any payment is required.

Realistic expectations

Volunteering abroad is not a holiday and it is not for everyone.

Participants should be:

• Flexible and open-minded

• Comfortable with cultural differences

• Willing to adapt to local routines

• Prepared for conditions that may differ from home

This approach leads to better experiences for both participants and host communities.

If you have questions

Most common questions are answered across our website, including the FAQ and destination pages.

If clarification is needed after reviewing this information, we encourage you to ask before applying.
If the structure and expectations outlined here feel right, the next step is to explore destinations and submit an application.

There is no obligation to continue unless you are accepted and choose to move forward.

If this approach feels right, the next step is to explore destinations and submit an application.

There is no obligation to continue unless you are accepted and decide to move forward.