European Voluntary Service
European Voluntary Service (EVS) is a European Commission scheme which encourages 18-30 year olds to undertake long term volunteering in Europe. The scheme is funded in order to make volunteering as accessible as possible. The projects are unpaid and, importantly, volunteers do not replace paid workers.
European Voluntary Service (EVS) is a fantastic opportunity for you to carry out a period of full time voluntary service abroad from 2 to 12 months. The programme is open to all young people aged 18-30 legally resident in the UK.
How does EVS work?
EVS is based on a partnership between a host project, the volunteer and a sending organisation. Volunteers carry out their volunteering placement in a host project outside the UK. Volunteers choose from accredited EVS projects that interest them. Host projects select volunteers for the vacancies they have. Applications for funding are made on the volunteer’s behalf by either the host or sending organisation.
Benefits of EVS volunteering
gain confidence and independence
experience a different culture
learn new skills and develop competencies
contribute to the local host community
enhance employability (Youthpass certificate on completion).
How much will it cost?
It’s free! There is no cost to the volunteer at any stage. Travel, accommodation, food and insurance are all covered by a European grant. You will even receive a small personal allowance each month.
Do I need any qualifications?
No. There are no qualification requirements. Basic language knowledge will help, but is not necessary
Young people with fewer opportunities
EVS is inclusive for all young people. Those volunteers with fewer opportunities who do not feel able to complete a longer term placement can take part in EVS for a short term project from 2 weeks to 2 months. Extra support is available if you feel that this would be needed for you to carry out your project.
For definitions of fewer opportunities download the European Commission’s descriptors from their inclusion strategy here
Volunteers who complete a short term EVS project are eligible to apply again for a longer placement. The total duration of both projects cannot exceed 12 months.
STEP 1: Registering with VAP as Sending Organisation
VAP is an accredited Sending Organisation for EVS. In order to apply for an EVS placement abroad, you will need to register with an accredited EVS sending organisation within the UK.
VAP will help prepare you for your EVS experience and will support you while you are abroad. Please note that from the time of registering with us it will take a minimum of three months before you can start your EVS placement. Please send this form by email.
- EVS Registration Form with VAP
- Please click on this icon to download the form
STEP 2: Choosing a host project
What would you like to do? Where would you like to go?
There are a huge range of EVS voluntary placements across Europe. Project themes include: culture, social care, environment, youth, sport, and more. Think about what interests and motivates you before you contact host organisations. It will help if you are as open minded as possible.
VAP works with a vast network of international like-minded organisations experienced in hosting EVS volunteers. We will do our best to find you a project that can match your expectations.
You can also search for projects by country or theme by visiting the European Commission’s project database (however, do note that some projects may not have EVS placements available).
For visiting the EU project database please click here
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