12/08/2010

Volunteer Service in Europe

Do you want to live in another European country for up to 12 months, learn a new language and help the local community?

The aims of the European Voluntary Service programme are to provide an informal learning experience for young people, encouraging their social integration and active participation, increasing their employability and giving them an opportunity to show solidarity with other people. EVS also aims to support the development of local communities around Europe.

Who can become an EVS volunteer?

Anyone aged between 18-30. There are no specific requirements or qualifications needed, just motivation, enthusiasm and lots of energy! The EVS experience is predominantly about experiencing a different culture, meeting people and helping a local community, as well as learning a new language.

Only permanent residents of the UK can apply for this programme. If you live outside of the UK, you will need to find an approved EVS sending organisation in your own country.

What type of work would I do?

EVS projects can be involved in many different community-based areas such as youth work, support for the disabled, environmental education or cultural awareness. It is important that you think carefully about the type of work you would like to do. In order to maximise the possibility of being selected, it helps if you do not limit yourself to one particular country.

Each project is very different both in the selection criteria and in practical arrangements. You could be the only volunteer at the project or part of a group. You may stay with a host family, share a house with other volunteers, live in a hostel or have your own flat.

We have to work to deadlines to submit grant applications to fund the EVS project so the earlier you apply, the more chance of finding a placement for the time you wish to go.

If you are accepted as an EVS volunteer, the EU and local hosting project will provide completely free of charge:

* Travel to and from the project
* Language Training
* Food & Accommodation
* Medical Insurance
* A Weekly Allowance

How do I find a project?

* Take a look at the EVS database
* Identify 2 or 3 projects that you think would be ideal
* Contact EIL with the reference numbers

If your chosen projects are hosted by one of our regular partners, we will contact them on your behalf. If not then we ask you to send a CV and letter of motivation directly explaining why you would like to become their volunteer.

You should apply for a project well in advance of your ideal start date as the normal administration of the programme takes approximately 6 months. Please also bear in mind that not all projects listed on the EVS database will be available for the time you wish to go and that placements can never be guaranteed.

EIL has been an approved sending organisation since the programme began in 1996 and also co-ordinates hosting projects around Britain. We have plenty of experience in training and support.

If you would like to know more information about EVS, just contact us at EIL. We would be pleased to discuss the opportunities available.

For more information please visit: www.eiluk.org

EIL UK

European Voluntary Service