APPLY TO VOLUNTEER
When should I apply?
Programmes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early will give you the best choice of programmes. We always endeavour to give an applicant a place on their preferred programme, but may sometimes be unable to do so. Application deadlines for particular programmes can be found here.
How am I selected?
Applicants are selected on the basis of their application form, personal statement, references, assessment at a selection day and interview. Further procedures are advised on an individual basis. If you are as yet undecided about whether to apply, come to an Information and Selection Day. This gives you the chance to chat to ex-volunteers about their time overseas - the best way to find out what life is really like as an SPW volunteer.
Can the organisation put you in direct contact with past volunteers?
Yes. If you come along to an Information and Selection Day, you can speak to volunteers recently returned from the programmes. This is a wonderful way to get a real feel for SPW and what it is like to volunteer on a programme – warts and all!
Do I have to be British?
No. While the majority of SPW's overseas volunteers are British, an increasing proportion are from continental Europe, Australasia and the Americas. Applicants from overseas are encouraged where possible to attend one of the selection/assessment days in London; they will also have telephone interviews. And over 85% of our volunteers are recruited locally, in the countries we work in. If you are from Australia, please visit www.spw.org.au; if you are from the US, please visit www.spw-usa.org.
APPLICATION INFORMATION*
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Information for applicants resident in the UK from African and South Asian Diaspora communities
*for applicants from the UK, or countries other than Australia and the US. See US and AUS websites above.
