United Kingdom Volunteer Quest

Volunteer in the United Kingdom: 6 or 12 months

“ I felt like I was allowed to be part of a very special community. I will always remember the people that I met and the experiences that I had.”

- Elspeth, United Planet volunteer


What makes a United Planet Long-term Quest unique?

United Planet’s Quest volunteer abroad programs are 100 % cultural immersion experiences. Long-term Quest volunteer opportunities begin in August and January of each year and areavailable to U.S. and Canadian residents of all ages and skill levels.

All Quests include:

  • Personalized attention and ongoing support from Coordinators
  • Extensive pre-departure training and in-country orientation
  • Local home stays or on-site lodging options

We have no doubt it will be life-changing and provide lasting memories. Read on for more detailed information about volunteer opportunities in the UK.

Country Information

The United Kingdom of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, commonly known as the UK,  is a sovereign state located off the northwest coast of continental Europe. Home to Shakespeare, the Beatles and Loch Ness, there is much to explore in the UK, whether you are drawn to city nightlife or quiet farming towns.  In the nineteenth century, the British Empire was the reigning world power; as the world’s first industrialized nation, the UK remains powerful, with the fifth largest economy in the world and a cultural influence extending throughout much of the English-speaking world.  While a democratic country with representative government, the UK is still ruled by a Constitutional MonarchyThe royal family continues to be popular and at the forefront of national affairs.  Volunteering in the UK will allow you to experience the way of life from a local’s perspective while working with those who find themselves on the fringe of society.

United Planet and the ICYE Federation

For six months to one year, you can experience a life-changing program in one of over 30 countries across the globe. United Planet is the U.S. and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange (ICYE) Federation , founded in 1949.  Through their vast network and 60 years of experience, United Planet and ICYE offer a wide range of programs for volunteers from around the world.


Who can apply?

Volunteers must be 18 years of age to participate in the UK Quest. United Planet can send volunteers who are citizens of the United States and Canada or those who are currently living in the U.S. and Canada.  Citizens and residents of other countries must contact the ICYE partner in their home country. United Planet can send people from any country to our Short-term Quest locations for 1-12 week programs.  Some of our short-term volunteer placements can be extended for longer stays.  Please contact us for more information about volunteering with United Planet.

Volunteer Opportunities in the UK

United Planet currently offers social volunteer opportunities in different locations in partnership with local organizations in the UK.

What's Included and Program Details

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        Please see the Long-term Prices and Details page for more information on what's included in your program fee.

Quest Program Briefs

volunteer work in UK

People with Disabilities

Volunteers work in homes or centers that provide care and activities for people living with physical or mental disabilities, both youth and adults.  The work varies from project to project, but in general includes a combination of direct care and organizing leisure and educational activities.Volunteers work in homes or centers that provide care and activities for people living with disabilities.  The work varies from project to project, but in general includes a combination of direct care and organizing leisure and educational activities.

Volunteer abroad in UK

Disadvantaged Youth

Volunteers help teenagers from low income or troubled families in community projects and camps in a variety of educational activities that exposes the children to multicultural environments and positive activities related to sports and the outdoors. The projects may be in the form of outdoor camps or community centers.

Volunteer cultural activities in UK

Sports/Leisure and Youth

Volunteers work in an outdoor ranch, camp or training facility that is used by the local community, mainly teenagers and youth, to improve their personal developments. Activities in the project may range from sports like tennis, swimming, fencing, to team building activities such as climbing, tight ropes and others. Volunteer is expected to work outdoors in assisting with this activities as well as indoors with administrative activities as needed. A good level of fitness is expected as activities are of physical nature.

Volunteer Accommodations

Volunteers in the UK live at the project site.

Learn about the application deadlines and program fees for this Long-term Quest.

Three Easy Steps to Apply

Questions about applying?

Call one of our friendly regional Quest coordinators today. We will walk you step-by-step through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Step 1: Choose your Quest. Contact us at any time for help!  We'd love to talk to you. Email or call  .

Step 2: Enroll online. Please fill in the enrollment form. Then reserve your spot with a deposit (which will be credited toward your program fee).

Step 3: Meet your Quest coordinator and iron out the details. Once you've applied, your United Planet coordinator will contact you, and arrange a phone session to talk about your Quest of interest. THANKS!

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