WIREDGOV

VSO short-term roles give experienced professionals the opportunity to make a concentrated, high-impact contribution to the fight against poverty.

You’ll face fresh challenges, develop valuable new skills, and experience another culture in a way few people have the chance to.

Who can be a Short Term Volunteer?

Our placements tend to be consultancy-type roles, designed around achieving a specific goal or completing a set project, so require highly skilled professionals who can hit the ground running. The majority of short-term roles last between four and six months.

You’ll need to have at least six years’ experience in your field, be able to go for six months and be ready to leave within twelve months of applying – sometimes at short notice.

VSO places a priority on matching volunteers to placements where they are most professionally suited. It helps if you’re flexible when considering where you’re willing to work.

How we’ll support you

This isn’t ‘voluntourism’ – you don’t have to pay to volunteer with VSO. We take care of all your expenses, from flights and insurance through to visas and accommodation. You even get a local living allowance. For more information, see our volunteering FAQs.

The skills we’re looking for

Short-term placements are available in the following fields: business and management, communications and media, community and social development, fundraising and advocacy, IT, natural resources, and therapy. There are also occasional roles for doctors, primary teachers, health managers, HIV and AIDS professionals, nurses, special education teachers, and those with technical skills. 

If you don't yet have the level of experience to undertake a shorter-term role, take a look at the long-term opportunities in your field.