Volunteering programs abroad 'must be fully researched'

People planning to participate in voluntary work abroad are advised to conduct extensive research before making any particular commitment.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) urges people to find out as much as possible about the gap year programs they are considering.

Potential volunteers should attempt to establish who else will be there, what sort of a role they will be expected to play and what responsibilities they will take on.

If possible, people should seek feedback on the gap year program from others who have experienced it before, the FCO stated.

"If you're thinking about volunteering, find out as much as you can about the project you're applying to," the office stated.

"It's a big commitment so make sure you're armed with all the facts."

Year Out Group members offer a wide variety of volunteering activities across the world, including teaching, care work and community and conservation projects.

The broad range of activities and living arrangements make it particularly important for those considering a voluntary work placement to research it in as much detail as possible. Year Out Group also offers well tested advice that will help potential volunteers to choose the gap year program that is best for them.

The aim should be to make sure that you are right for the project and vice versa.

Check out all the different gap year programs on offer.