Change the World - Leaving from PLATFORM2

Platform 2 is a free government run initiative and is an overseas voluntary opportunity for 18-25 year olds. It aims to take 2,500 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to developing countries all across the world. These are 10 week trips to places such as South Africa and Nigeria and are all about helping the locals in their community. The trips centre round different projects for example construction,teaching catering and more. Platform 2 will help young people identify the project that is best suited for the individual.

The opportunity is especially aimed at those young people who may not otherwise be able to afford this kind of opportunity, so eligibility is on an individual basis and takes in to account benefits they may be receiving/have received, income etc. They will also have to undertake a CRB check to ensure they are safe to work on these projects.

What is paid for?

• Flights
• Accommodation
• Immunisation
• Food
• Weekly living allowance

What is not paid for?

• Travel to interview (this will be local where possible)
• Travel to Heathrow airport (most trips will be flying from Heathrow)
• Personal/Social Travelling whilst away
• Passport

Application Process:

• Application form – includes information about themselves, why they want to take part in the trip, how it will benefit them etc
• Two references needed
• Local interview – very informal chat, getting to know more about the projects and them discussing application/motivations for applying etc. This is usually around 4 or 5 questions and lasts around 1 hour
• If successful, there will then be a pre-departure briefing to get cultural information, health and safety, a chance to meet others etc
• Upon arrival back in the UK there is a 3 day residential for people to share their thoughts and experiences about their project.

For more information or to download an application form, please visit: http://www.myplatform2.com/