Volunteering with Progressio ICS is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside others to change lives - including your own. You will have amazing experiences, meet amazing people, and do amazing things - and know you will be doing your bit to build a better world for everyone.
But how do you know if it's for you?
Becoming a Progressio ICS volunteer
Progressio ICS is for anyone aged 18-25 who wants to spend 10 weeks volunteering overseas.
Volunteers need to be aged 18-25 at the time they go abroad, so if you are 17 now, but will be 18 by the time you leave, you can still apply.
To apply you must be living in the UK and have either a UK passport, indefinite leave to remain in the UK or be an EU/EEA citizen who has been living in the UK for the last 12 months.
You don't need any particular qualifications or skills to apply for a volunteer placement, but successful applicants will need to show they are motivated to make a difference.
More specifically, we're looking for people who are good at working with others, flexible and adaptable, and demonstrate a positive, realistic commitment to the ICS programme. You can click here to view the full Volunteer Selection Dimensions.
Becoming a Progressio ICS group leader
We also need a small number of group leaders, who must be aged 23 or over.
Group leaders provide support, supervision and leadership to ICS volunteers in their teams, ensuring everyone in the team is able to get the most out of the experience.
Click here for more information about the group leader role.
Is Progressio ICS for everyone?
Progressio ICS welcomes applications from all young people who meet the criteria listed above, and we strive to be as inclusive as possible in what we do. Due to the nature of our work, some of our placements may be more suitable than others for disabled volunteers. If you have a health condition (physical or psychological), learning needs, impairment or disability then we would encourage you to mention this at the application stage so that the options available to you can be discussed on an individual basis. This should mean that as a volunteer you will be supported in the best possible way, and have the most positive experience on the programme.
If you have a question about being able to take part in Progressio ICS, then please contact us on 0207 733 1195 or emailing ics@progressio.org.uk
Fundraising
You don't have to pay to volunteer with Progressio ICS - but all ICS volunteers are asked to fundraise at least £800.
This is a key part of your preparation for going overseas, but don't worry - ICS will provide lots of support, guidance and ideas to help you with your fundraising efforts. Most ICS volunteers find it easier to fundraise than they thought it might be! See more on fundraising here.
Can I volunteer if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record won’t necessarily prevent you from volunteering with ICS; it all depends on the circumstances and background of the offence. All of the ICS agencies use the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) to provide Enhanced Disclosures for all volunteers and are committed to complying with the DBS Code of Practice and Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. You will be asked to complete a DBS form online at the selection day, where staff will be on hand to help you. Please click here to see a guide to DBS.
For more on applying please see our FAQs here.
Ready to apply? Click here to be taken to the online application form.
