Frequently Asked Questions

Q. I don’t have much money. How can I go abroad to volunteer with minimum cost?
A. When you use the WWV database, you can state how much money you wish to contribute. Many organisations are free, some even give pocket money. Many will provide food and accommodation.

Q. Will I get my expenses reimbursed?
A. Each organisation and project is different. All this information can be found on the WWV database.

Q. How far in advance do I need to apply for a placement?
A. There is a field on the WWV database which shows when each organisation would like applications. We would recommend that you apply as early as possible but, however late you are, it is always worth asking if there is a space for you on the project.

Q. Do I need any special qualifications?
A. No. Although qualifications may open the door to more projects, there are many thousands of projects in the UK and around the world which need no special qualifications.

Q. How can I be sure that the organisations listed are reputable?
A. There are thousands of organisations offering volunteering opportunities around the world and so there is no substitute for sound research.

Q. Does WWV do anything to ensure the organisations on its database are reputable?
A. WWV checks all organisations with the Cult Information Centre in London before adding them to the WWV database. We also investigate any complaints. Nevertheless, all potential volunteers are strongly advised to satisfy themselves on the management, financial, safety, health and all other aspects of a project before enrolling on it.

Q. Can I talk to returned volunteers?
A. Yes. You should always ask the organisation with which you intend to volunteer to give you the contact details of previous volunteers.

Q. Can my volunteering experience be accredited?
A. Examples of UK accreditation include:

• Community Volunteering Qualification (CVQ) - Levels 1, 2 and 3 from ASDAN 
• Youth Challenges and Youth Achievement Awards, from ASDAN and UK Youth
• A Profile of Achievement, from City and Guilds

Q. How can I be sure that my contribution will be of real value to the community I work with?
A. There is a serious issue here. Your voluntary work should not just be about personal development. Make sure that there is a direct link to real community needs, linked to the local infrastructure.

Q. Does WWV offer volunteering opportunities for people of all ages?
A. Yes. Whilst much of our work is focussed on the 16 - 35 year age group, the database caters for all ages. There are many projects for those aged 60 and above.
 
Q. Where can I find part-time volunteering opportunities, e.g. for less than a week?
A. WWV offers placements for anything from one hour per week. The online database asks you for your minimum and maximum hours per week.

Q. Why do some organisations charge such a lot of money when I just want to volunteer?
A. Some organisations provide a solid infrastructure and back-up for their young volunteers. Many organisations also build into their costs a contribution to the project that you will be helping. Always ask to see the breakdown of where your money goes.

Q. Can I volunteer with a friend or in a group?
A. Yes. Many organisations will accept friends together and many will include you in a group.

Q. Is WWV able to sponsor volunteers on projects?
A. WWV is a small charity and is unable at present to sponsor volunteers on projects either in the UK or overseas.

Q. Do I need to know the language of the country I want to volunteer in?
A. Wherever they travel to, volunteers will benefit significantly from a conversational knowledge of the country’s language. In some areas of the world, particularly South America, English is not widely spoken.