Volunteer in the United Kingdom

It’s a pity that the United Kingdom is often overlooked as a destination for those searching for an international volunteer experience. This dynamic country has something to offer nearly anyone looking to pitch in a helping hand. With rural and urban, as well as traditional and modern locations, each unique in its own right, this nation just a few hours across the pond has nearly unlimited opportunities for volunteers like you.

You may find yourself implementing conservation efforts on historical landmarks, helping to resettle refugees in cities, or maintaining trails and waterways on misty moors. Whatever the case, volunteers in the United Kingdom will find their experience to be rewarding for them while making a positive impact on their host community.

There are many different types of volunteer programs available in the United Kingdom. Take a look at some of the types below for inspiration.

Conservation

While the legendary primordial forests that once covered Great Britain are gone, much effort is being made to conserve and restore the wild places that remain. As the population of the UK continues to rise, more and more development is threatening the landscapes that inspired poets like Wordsworth and Burns. Your efforts can do much to help protect them.

While volunteering on a conservation-related project you may find yourself restoring habitat for threatened animals and plants, educating the public, maintaining trails, and conducting wildlife surveys. This is your chance to experience some of the most stunning scenery in the country while protecting it at the same time.

Archaeology

The Celts, Romans, Normans, Britons, Vikings, and Saxons all left their mark on this land. Every summer, archaeological excavations seek to uncover the ancient mysteries of the UK. This is an opportunity to be on the front line of historical discovery as you swing a pickax or trowel to uncover the remains of this land’s legendary past.

As a volunteer on an archaeological excavation, you might just be part of discovering the next big clue to unraveling this nation’s history. The people of the UK are proud of their storied past and your participation in uncovering the clues left by their ancestors is an important part of ensuring that future generations have access to this rich legacy.

Agriculture

Despite its large cities, the United Kingdom is still a very agriculturally rich country. This makes it a great place to volunteer in farm work or animal husbandry. Whether you’re sheering sheep in the Welsh hillsides, implementing organic planting techniques in community gardens, or planting an experimental strain of wheat in the Cotswolds, you’ll find plenty of practical opportunities to get dirt under your fingernails.

Social Work

There are countless ways that you can help out as a social worker in the United Kingdom. Lending a hand helping children in youth development centers, refugee programs, and senior living facilities is a great way to do good while embedding yourself in a local community.

Volunteering in social work can take you almost anywhere in the country. From rural villages to inner-city neighborhoods, your services will be greatly appreciated by the people you reach.

Where to Volunteer in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is a diverse nation. While volunteering there you could find yourself in dense urban centers or remote moors or coastlines. London, Belfast, Bristol, and Edinburgh are popular cities for volunteers. Some projects will take you to more out-of-the-way locations. It all depends on the experience that you choose.

Visas

US citizens can visit the UK for up to six months without a visa. Just make sure that your passport doesn’t expire within that time frame.

Cost of living

The United Kingdom is not the cheapest country to spend time in. The cost of living, particularly in cities, is at least as high as it is in the United States. Volunteer programs that provide room and board are a great way to defray the costs, but keeping a budget will be helpful throughout your time there.

Housing & Accommodation

Your living arrangements will depend greatly on the program that you take part in. They can range from dorm-style housing to a studio or a homestay. You may even find yourself camping in a tent.

If accommodation is not provided with your program, start apartment (or rather flat) hunting as early as you can. Housing in cities can be expensive, so build this into your budget.

Volunteer Programs in the United Kingdom

Displaying 1 - 12 of 19 programs
CICD - College for International Co-operation & Development

People for Change

From February 2024, join us here at the CICD in Patrington (UK) for 4...

England

Related Volunteer Abroad Articles