In Europe

They do say the best things in life are free and maybe they are not far from the truth. Volunteering in Europe can be a life changing expereience. Ever fancied working in turtle conservation on a Greek Island, in the heat of the Italian sun on an archelogical dig or organising arts festivals in Finland? Volunteering isn't boring and it can be whatever you enjoy doing. It's a great chance to test your skills in an area you might work in, get warm fuzzies from helping out other people, get experience of working in another country and meet some new friends.  

You don't have to pay thousands of pounds to take a GAP year/year out/career break, or whatever you want to call it. One programme, the European Voluntary Service will pay your accommdation, food, pocket money and provide you with language lessons for free. It even goes up to the age of 30 so you can take a 'trendy' career break and try something different. 

There's no doubt volunteering abroad can be a little scary, challenging, inspiring and sometimes lonely but theres only one way to find out! Check out the links below and see where the path will take you!

Under 18s

If you are under 18 there are still many opportunities for you to explore in the voluntary field. European Voluntary Service (EVS) is now open to 16-17 year olds. However, not all projects are open to this age group. All you need to do is ask an EVS sending organisation in the UK, contact us to get contact with one closest to you. International workcamps/volunteer camps are also a good option for under 18s, as many organisations run special camps for younger teenagers. Most of these are in the UK so you can see if you like them and then take the next step to Europe once you are sold. Check out the links below to find out a programme to suit you.

European Voluntary Service (European Youth Portal)
European Voluntary Service helps young people aged 18-30 live and volunteer in another European country for anything from 3 weeks to a year. Find out more from this page.

Voluntary Work Abroad (Young Scot)
Information on voluntary work abroad.

European Voluntary Service (British Council)
Here you can find Information on the Youth in Action European Voluntary Service programme and how to apply to become an EVS volunteer abroad.

Gap Year Volunteer Placements
Information on volunteer placements in other countries.

iGapyear.com
Plan your gap year abroad.  Users can search for paid jobs, industrial placements and volunteer projects in another country.

Volunteer Abroad
Search for volunteering opportunities around the globe!

WWOOF Volunteering in Agriculture in Europe
WWOOF volunteers work on an organic farm and receive free board and lodging and practical experience in return, but you need to arrange your own placement.

Europe Channel (Young Scot)
Information on working, training, studying and volunteering abroad.