FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I would like to volunteer, what are the first steps?
Should you be interested in volunteering your skills and time, please download the ‘Volunteer Enquiry Form' by clicking the button below. Once you have completed this, either email it back to us at [email protected] or post it to the address given on the form. You will then be contacted via email and invited to attend one of our introductory meetings with others who are interested in volunteering with TWOWEEKS.
What are the introductory meetings?
The introductory meetings are a chance for us to give you a detailed breakdown of who we are and what we do here at TWOWEEKS. There will be a 45 minute presentation with ex volunteers speaking about their time with TWOWEEKS. A number of the team will be here to answer any questions you may have and it gives us a chance to meet you face to face. The intro meetings are always held in London with central transport links located nearby.
How much will a trip cost?
It is always difficult to give an exact figure, as the cost of a trip will vary depending on which partner project you will be assisting and the time of year. Based on previous experience, we estimate that the total cost of a trip will be between £650 and £1000, with the majority of this cost being the international flight. You will be responsible for paying expenses whilst volunteering like your food and personal supplies.
What will I need to take on a trip?
Items and equipment necessary for a trip will vary depending on your role and where you will be travelling to. Again, it is difficult to give specifics in advance of knowing which project you will be assisting, and this will be discussed in detail at pre-trip meeting and training. A volunteer pack will also be given to individuals with all the necessary details.
What can I do in two weeks?
We at TWOWEEKS are often asked this question. The answer is that a great deal can be achieved in two weeks. Although you may be abroad for only two weeks, you are part of a team and a part of a process and our ongoing activities, which aim to establish a sustainable and effective project withing a community. It is possbile to share your skills with others and make a real difference in two weeks to those living in deprived areas. Also, although the minimum length of time for volunteering is two weeks, we welcome those who would like to volunteer for a longer period. When TWOWEEKS first started, we only had two members, who went to do a health needs assessment for the residents of a township. As a result of those two weeks spent researching and learning about the community we were trying to help, a health clinic has now been built and serves the needs of over 40,000 people. There is also a lot than can be done to support our work abroad from right here in the UK. This includes activities such as fundraising, networking and raising awareness about the work we do, for example by writing a report or an article. The list of things that a person can do to help is endless and all tasks are part of a bigger picture.
What is required before I go on a trip overseas as a volunteer?
You are required to attend an introductory meeting and preparatory or pre-trip meeting held by TWOWEEKS, which will prepare volunteers for the trip so that they will be most effective during their time at a particular project.
What will happen at pre-trip meetings?
Meetings tend to be held in the evenings and some weekends and aim to prepare volunteers for their forthcoming trip so as to achieve goals set and help them be as effective as they can be in their time at the project. These meetings also allow teams to get to know each other before they travel to a project. We use these meetigs to plan our activities during trips and to provide information about the project and local community, as well as the country you will be visiting. Volunteers also learn about local culture and language. Equipment needs, finances and travel arrangements are also discussed and organised.
I am unable to travel overseas at this time; what can I do to support TWOWEEKS in the UK?
TWOWEEKS is always in need of people to help us here in the UK. Numerous fundraising activities go on throughout the year, and we are grateful for any help with promotion and activities on the night. However, we also have many needs in helping us run the organisation. For example, we need people to help us with: Events and Fundraising, Marketing Media and Public relations, Administrative duties, Recruitment and volunteers liaison, etc. There are many roles that we require help with and so, if you have skills and the willingness and desire to help, then please get in contact with us at [email protected]. We are also open to suggestions of other ways in which you can help.