It is an opportunity open to all young people between the ages of 18 and 25, which allows them to volunteer to work in a variety of activities in the social, environmental and cultural field. Their voluntary service takes place in another country, for a minimum period of 3 weeks to a maximum of 6 months (short-term), or 6 to 12 months (long-term). There are no preconditions in terms of qualifications or social background for young people taking part.

The main aims of EVS are to help young people become more integrated into society, to develop a service that will benefit the community in humanitarian, social and cultural ways, and to link and strengthen organisations working for the public good throughout Europe.

Volunteers are aged between 18 to 25 and have to be legally resident in an eligible country. They are voluntarily committed to an experience of active citizenship and non-formal education with a view to acquiring social, intercultural and personal skills. Volunteers should embark on this experience with an open mind, a willingness to learn and appreciate another culture, integrate into a foreign community, as well as actively take part in actions beneficial to the local community. Volunteers will contribute by sharing their own culture, their own personal skills and by giving their time, energy and enthusiasm.

The Sending Organisation is responsible for publicising the programme, recruiting young people and seeking suitable host placements. They also provide initial training and preparation, arrange travel for the volunteer, maintain contact during the voluntary service period and make arrangements for the volunteer's re-entry to the UK when their assignment ends. They are expected to help young people validate and use their experience by providing suitable follow-up on their return.

The Hosting Organisation is located in the place where the volunteer undertakes his/her voluntary service. Host organisations cover a wide range of non profit making activities in the social, environmental and cultural fields, which are likely to have a direct impact on the well being of the populations of the local hosting community. Any type of non governmental organisation, an association, a local authority or any non profit making local initiative can apply to be a host organisation.

Host organisations are responsible for arranging on-arrival training with approved EVS trainers. They will provide: personal support to help volunteers integrate into the local community and facilitate the opportunity to meet local young people and other EVS volunteers; continuous supervision; a mentor who will advise on any difficulties; language training; and suitable board/lodging.

There is no cost to the young person. The Sending and Hosting organisations and the European Union co-fund the volunteer's EVS experience.

If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer, a Sending or Hosting organisation, contact:

European Voluntary Service
Connect Youth
10 Spring Gardens
London SW1A 2BN

Tel: 020.7389.4023 or 020.7389.4308
Email: connectyouth.enquiries@britishcouncil.org

Information Kits and Application Forms can be downloaded (in Word 97 format) from:
www.connectyouthinternational.com