VSO

Volunteering with VSO ICS

VSO is one of the world’s leading independent international development organisations working through volunteers.

VSO is one of six organisations sending International Citizen Service (ICS) volunteers.

We tackle poverty in developing countries by using the skills, commitment and enthusiasm of volunteers from around the world. For 50 years, we have been recruiting a wide range of people, with a wide range of skills to live and work in the heart of local communities.

Where could I volunteer?

If you volunteer for ICS with VSO you could work in:

  • Ethiopia

  • Kenya

  • Nigeria

  • Sierra Leone

  • Tanzania

  • Zambia

  • Bangladesh

  • India

  • Indonesia

  • Nepal

  • Philippines

  • Tajikistan

You'll only work with projects that have specifically requested the help of ICS as part of the wider VSO development programme in that community. So you know your contribution will make a real difference.

What you'll do

As a VSO ICS volunteer you will help to make a lasting change for poor communities. You could work alongside volunteers from that country on a range of issues including:

  • HIV and AIDS

  • education

  • youth leadership

  • access to healthcare

  • climate change.

You could, for example, help to educate other young people, set up youth clubs to involve young people in the community, conduct research into health service access, or create campaigns for social change.

We will try and match your volunteer placement to your interests. However,our placements are always designed around what the community needs. Whatever you do, you’ll come away with a new awareness of different cultures, develop valuable skills and have an opportunity to make a practical contribution where it’s needed most.

You’ll also organise and take part in community action days, working alongside the community to address specific issues such as litter picking, sexual health, hygiene and computer skills. Community action days mean your team can have an impact on the community outside the direct daily work of your placement.

How it works

As an ICS volunteer with VSO, you’ll be part of a group of 5-10 other volunteers from the UK. Once you arrive you’ll work with volunteers from the country you’re based in, learning from each other and sharing ideas to create a lasting impact.

All VSO teams are supported by two full-time programme supervisors: one from the UK and one from the country you’re volunteering in. They will support you and help with some of the more practical issues, making sure your team achieves as much as possible.

Find out more about how ICS works or apply now.