Vinspired
Vinspired
25 May 2024 ·

European Volunteering: The New Inter-railing?

European Volunteering Map

The European Year of Volunteering 2011 has been a pivotal moment for countries across Europe to recognize the critical role of volunteers in our societies and economies. Beyond the celebrations, a significant development is emerging in youth volunteering. The European Commission has recommended that member states facilitate and support cross-border volunteering, particularly for young people.

What Does This Mean?

This recommendation encourages European governments to create programs that enable young people to volunteer across borders. A prime example is the European Voluntary Service (EVS), which supports both “hosting organizations”—those that receive volunteers—and “sending organizations” that arrange for UK-based volunteers to participate in accredited European placements.

In England, the EVS is managed by the British Council, offering young people aged 18-30 the chance to engage in volunteering placements for 2-12 months. The program covers travel, accommodation, and provides a volunteering allowance, making it accessible even for those with financial constraints. Additional funding is available for young people requiring extra support. The European Commission aims to expand these opportunities, enhancing the ease with which young volunteers can engage in social action projects across Europe.

Improving Access and Affordability

International volunteering is often associated with the developing world, with many UK volunteers bypassing Europe for Africa or South America. However, financial barriers exclude many from participating. European volunteering could be a solution, particularly given shared challenges like youth unemployment and public service cuts. While investment is necessary to make European volunteering viable, it presents a more affordable option.

For young people, the chance to travel, improve language skills, and immerse themselves in different cultures while contributing to social good is transformative. These experiences expand their skills and horizons, offering a new form of inter-railing focused on social impact.

What Happens Next?

To gain traction, the initiative requires increasing the quantity, quality, and diversity of volunteering placements, simplifying visa processes, and attracting participants from diverse backgrounds. At Vinspired, we are committed to collaborating with the Department for Education, the Cabinet Office, and the European Commission to implement these recommendations in England.

If you’re a hosting or sending organization, we’d love to hear your experiences with cross-border volunteering. And if you’ve participated in a European volunteering program, how has it benefited you?

Explore more about the significance of European volunteering and the impact of youth unemployment through volunteering on our platform.