The European Voluntary Service (EVS) is a fantastic opportunity that allows you to volunteer abroad for a period of 2-12 months. The programme is open to all young people aged between 18-30 years old, as long as they are a legal UK resident.
As well as gaining all the usual rewards associated with volunteering, such as learning new skills and enhancing your employability, the EVS also offers the following additional benefits:
There is absolutely no cost to the volunteer at any stage. Travel, accommodation, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant. Volunteers even receive a small personal allowance each month. You don’t need to have any qualifications; although a basic knowledge of the language of the host country may help it is not essential.
Step 1 – Finding a Host Project
Choosing a project is all about where you want to go and what you want to do! There are a huge range of EVS voluntary placements across Europe and even beyond. Some of the available project themes are:
Try and think about what interests and motivates you before you contact host organisations – it can also help if you’re as open-minded as possible.
You can use the Youth Networks website to look for available EVS opportunities.
Or use the European Commission's database.
Step 2 – Choose a Sending Organisation
You need to be registered with an EVS sending organisation within the UK. They will help you prepare for your EVS experience and support you while you’re abroad. You should try and contact a sending organisation that is near your local area. It takes a minimum of three months from the moment you register with a sending organisation before you can start your EVS placement.
You can search for local sending organisations at the British Council website.
Don’t forget you can use your Young Scot National Entitlement Card to access loads of local discounts in your host country.
Published on 06/07/2010
Last modified on 24/09/2012
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