Blog

Edwin's experience volunteering led him to recognition as a 'deaf role model' and eventually to a fulfilling job as a teacher.

Our earth and its weather systems are finely balanced. Even a small change has huge ramifications and it’s the planet’s poorest people who are shouldering the biggest burden.

Newborn deaths and infection rates have plummeted since VSO opened this intensive care unit in northern Uganda three months ago.

Fatu Conteh, 18, gave birth to baby girl Mariama six months ago and shares her story here.

Our research shows that 55% of VSO volunteers become more involved in social projects after their placements – and a third continue to work with individuals or groups they met whilst volunteering.

These volunteers are still dedicating their time to supporting the communities they volunteered in.

Salima is a farmer from northern Bangladesh. After joining a local farmer group she and her husband, Moklaser, have seen significant increases in yields and profits. 

Zanab has realized her unconventional dream of becoming an electrician. After completing a vocational course run in partnership between British Gas Group, VSO and the Tanzanian Government she is one of only two women in a new trade co-operative, with excellent skills and revving for business.

Andrew Sesay is a Community Health Officer at Binkolo clinic, Sierra Leone. He’s often the first point of call for the thousands of people living in the community. 

Tom Legge, 35, from London is a VSO volunteer currently on placement in the north of Ghana. He thinks the current attacks against UK Aid fail to look at the benefit it has to the UK, as well as to people in less well-off countries. 

The 'Busy Bee' cooperative are living up to their name. Beekeeping start-up kits and training in business skills, provided by VSO, have helped this group of 26 producers boost their income and entrepreneurial skills.

After a 40-year career in the NHS in the UK, Phil Heywood, 72, is volunteering his skills to help tackle maternal deaths in Myanmar. He explains the global injustice of maternal deaths, and what is being done about it through UK Aid.