I think that some people's comments here are disgusting. The youth of today can't seem to get anything right. Like another commenter said, theres plenty said about anti social behaviour, underage drinking and smoking etc, but when young people want to do something to help other people, they get mocked as naive, arrogant 'do gooders', etc. Naiive, maybe but how can you mock these people for trying to make a small difference in the world, after learning of the horrors of the world from school and the TV. To say they should backpack instead completeley undermines their humanitarian spirit. Without the sort of people that are willing to help others with no financial benefit to themself the world would be in a very sorry state (even more than it is now). It is the companies that should be scorned for exploiting the well meaning of these people.

Sarah, Stoke on Trent,

I think volunteering is a really positive step to take for young people, just as long as you choose a reputable company and not one of these huge profit making companies, I'm hoping to go with Projects Abroad to Ghana or South Africa, and Projects Abroad are not overpriced and allow you to have a say in what your money goes towards. I've not heard hardly anything negative about this company but if you go on Gapyear.com there's so many negative comments on other large gap year companies. For me, volunteering is an excellent way to develop as a person, experience another culture, and help in any way you can. I think you should go with an open mind, don't think you're going to change the world but look at it as a positive step. The more you put in the more you get out of it.

The only thing is that I just can't decide between South Africa or Ghana!

Sarah, Surrey, England

I disagree with the spirit in which this article is written. It certainly is true that there are many gap year projects that are poorly planned. I've witnessed this first hand. I wouldn't want to name names, but even some very well known gap year charities have failed to make a lasting positive difference in some of their projects. Gap yearers should put a lot of effort into researching what they are buying into. A lot of the comments here talk about backbacking as a better option to experience the culture of a country. I have to question this. How much are you really experiencing by going from one hostel to another, Lonely Planet in hand? Who are you meeting? Who are you working with? Other people with the same Lonely Planet, that's who. Ok, don't kid yourself that you're saving the world by going on a conservation expedition, but the fact is, charities/companies like Trekforce, Greenforce and Frontier will take you to places that you simply won't be able to get to on your own.

Alex, London,

Organisation for Responsible and Community-based Tourism (and NGO) organises volunteer work opportunities and do not charge volunteers for arranging work opportunities. They work with different educational institutes, local communities and NGOs in different areas. The organisation has growing membership in different countries and the official website is www.realitytourism.org

Praveen Kumar, New Delhi, India

First of all I would like to say that although I accept that companies exist whose prime aim is to rip off naive youngsters who want to save the world. I have come across a couple of these on my travels- I have seen painting stones white called a "project" and evidence of a three week "project" that consisted of laying a three metre square of concrete by a basketball court...the later was a project by World Challenge whose leader informed me that the "project" taught the young people "how hard making a difference can be and that sometimes you cannot achieve much".

People do need to be aware of this. But normal rules apply to buying gap volunteer placements as buying anything- do your research and make sure that you are getting what you want and your moneys worth. If you spend thousands of pounds without spending any time looking into where its going, then you´re an idiot who deserves to be ripped off.

Good companies do exist e.g. (as mentioned previously)Trekforce Worldwide.

Rhi, Wales,

I feel incredibly fortunate to have been involved in an amazing project in Belize this year with Trekforce. As the expedition assistant I felt so lucky to be part of an organisation that could really give volunteers the opportunity of their lifetime whilst giving something back to the world.
Our project was to build basic toilet and shower facilities in a small village which had good access to some beautiful jungle. The area was already visited by some universities and by building these basic facilities enables more Belizian schools and universities to stay and learn about the value of the rainforest and enjoy the beauty in this part of their country. In this country it is easy to recognise the value of Rainforests, in Belize the jungle is under a constant threat by logging companies, so if they can be researched by Universities and recognised as valuable for more than timber by the younger generation they may stand some chance of survival.

Katie de Wolf, Lake district, UK

I travelled to Central America a couple of years ago with Trekforce and absolutely loved it! It was the best experience of my life so far and I loved being part of the positive impact they clearly have in Belize. I chose Trekforce after reading up and doing lots of research on all the voluteer programmes out there, which I advise everyone do if they plan to take part in such a scheme. I wanted to travel and see the world, but also make a difference to something- worthwhile travelling. I spent 2 months in the Belizean jungle undertaking a project to protect an endangered species and then 2 months in a rural village living with a family and teaching in the local school. Volunteering is such a great way of ensuring safe travel and it gives you an opportunity to see things and take part in experiences you would never be able to on your own! I loved it and recommend it to anyone! I made some great friends and had so much fun whilst benefitting the Belizean community and environment.

Liz Beresford, London,

I went to Mexico with Teaching & Projects Abroad a few years back and would strongly advise any Gap year student to steer well clear of this orgnisation.

I had no desire to use any agency for my travels but to appease my worried parents, I decided to use one. This was a BIG mistake! T&P Abroad were a disgrace and a complete sham.

I had no grand plans to change the world but what I was looking for was an opportunity to be involved with the local communtiy and culture in a safe, supportive way. This was definitely NOT what the organisation provided. Fortunately, I managed to have a fruitful time independently, by disocciating myself from the organisation and finding my own paths.

Melissa, London, UK

Having experienced both a VSO placement and a 'gap-year' project (with Greenforce), I have to completely disagree with this article and find it hugely hypocritical of VSO.

I feel I achieved and benefited the local community much more so with my three-month Greenforce placement than with my year-long VSO placement. Although the Gap-year project did cost a considerable amount of money, I felt it was good value and gave me an opportunity to experience parts of Africa that a traveller would never see - as well as benefit local people.

My VSO placement was a complete waste of time. The organisation I worked for and my placement was completely unsustainable. I had an amazing time living in the country and made some great friends, but if I had my time again (and the money) I would have chosen to spend the time doing something much more beneficial!

I think VSO need to give Gap-year companies a break and spend more time thinking about their own placements and volunteers!

Volunteer, Oxford, UK

Paying extortionate 'ignorant foreigner' prices in developing countries is part of travelling, but we needn't be ripped off by those who organise our trips. At least you know when the man willing to cycle you for miles on the back of his pushbike charges you double the locals rate that you'll be giving his family a better diet, rather than buying a fifth holiday home for the chief exec. of a gap year business.

The experiences I had in China and Uganda, building relationships, laughing with those in my community as I tried to use the local language and the friends who I remain in contact with will not leave me and it's something that backpackers sadly lose out on. Even if HIV/AIDS infections didn't go down at least awareness of it was raised by my being there.

I've volunteered with SPW (spw.org) and vso (vso.org.uk) they encouraged me to speak to returned youth volunteers.As they are both charities I knew the money I fundraised was not lining someone's pocket.

Ellie Mesh, Guildford, Surrey

I'm annoyed that this article has immediately written off all volunteering organisations. It is true that SOME projects are like those in this article, while doing a 1 month expedition with Trekforce I heard some stories myself but at the same time I was with locals that had ASKED Trekforce to be involved due to their help with previous projects.
The idea of changing the world is very naive on the part of the volunteer but locally a well planned project can really help-ours could potentially help to preserve a national park (unfortunately it's never set in stone but that has to be accepted too)!
The aim of this article should not be to put people off volunteering, it should make people aware that not all organisations do what they claim, so do research & ask people!
Volunteering's a fantastic way of ensuring safe travel, having fun & helping out. Trekforce provided an experience I could not get independently-we were the first group to trek to a Belizean sinkhole-fantastic!!!

Amy, Stoke-on-Trent, UK

It is really frightening to think that we have produced graduates such as Lily of London, and have the audacity and arrogance to send them to developing countries, to educate, help and enlighten those who live there!

Simone, Newbury, UK

This article both intrigued and infuriated me! Having just completed my degree, I have decided to take a year out before progressing onto an MA course. I was planning on participating on a gap year programme not because I want to save the world or so I can pay to buff up my CV, but because I have never travelled before and this way I would feel more secure and more confident about roaming around in foreign countries.

While I plan to make an effort to learn language basics and cultural rules, I think a good way to do this is to integrate into a community and hence my decision to do volunteer work abroad whilst travelling.

While I feel this article has raised my suspicions of gap year companies, surely they cannot all be money grabbing or damaging to the countries involved? It would be interesting to hear some suggestions of companies that can provide fairly priced quality gap year projects, instead of playing the blame game.

Helen, Abergavenny, Wales

Gap activity Projects (www.gap.org.uk) is an amazing organisation. Why is it amazing? Because it's NON PROFIT, meaning it's not a bunch of men in suits ripping you off. I went on my gap year with them in 2004 and I did 4 months of teaching in South East China whrere they really benefitted from having a westerner teaching them. It cost me only about £1200, which included visa, flights, inocullations, TEFL beginners course. This company is really into promotting how beneficial volunteer work is. How can back packing possibly compare to seeing a child learning something that will be useful to them for the rest of their lives?! Shame on you Mrs Brodie.

Naomi, London, UK

Haha. Sorry, but it's just a case of the white man thinking they are better than others, than they can turn up anywhere in the world and suddenly be gods. That was 150 years ago. Shocking thing is working class and middle class people alike share this indestingusiable nationalist view. I was so shocked by people's attitudes when my fiance took me to to visit her family in China that I was embarassed to be British and only used my Polish ID card.

Oliver Pearce, London,

As ‘one of Britain’s leading charities’ VSO needs to be a little more responsible in its elitist and uncharitable recommendation to students not to take part in gap year aid projects overseas.

Real Gap Experience is just one of a number of responsible gap year providers (abiding by the code of practice set out by the Year Out Group) and we are contacted all the time by overseas organisations desperate for the benefits that volunteers can bring. Our overseas partners know where help is most needed and how best to channel and co-ordinate the skills and time of volunteers so that they are put to best use. The financial aid that comes from volunteer fees is invaluable too.

VSO (does this stand for Very Supersilious Organisation?) should get off their elitist high horse and accept that they are not alone in doing good works, try telling the children we help in africa that it a waste of time.

david stitt, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 2YG

My name is Gabriela Cadena, i-to-i in country coordinator for Ecuador. We have been receiving volunteers in my country for 8 years. Thanks to the volunteers, Ecuadorian children have been able to learn English for free in schools and centers where budget for hiring English teachers lacks. Children would not have had this opportunity otherwise. Conservation projects have been able to continue with their daily duties to achieve their long term goals, thanks to the time and commitment of volunteers. Health centers have been able to count with people to collaborate with them in the healthcare of children. In summary, the projects we work with in Ecuador have been able to witness the work and collaboration of volunteers on a daily basis in-country, and the positive impact that volunteer work has had on them.

Gabriela Cadena, Quito, Ecuador

Although one can hardly disagree with the comments, on both sides, something is being missed out. Surely if one wants to go and volunteer through a Company, one should be able to do so! There is a balanced equation - the volunteer gets a lot out of it and so does the placement.
The "change the world" mentality is nonsense, of course - but in Nepal, where I work for i-to-i, I can hardly understand the English teachers I meet as their pronunciation is so bad! There is a desperate need here for natural English-speaking teachers as generations of youngsters cannot speak comprehensible English. Without fluent English in a modern world the children are at a serious disadvantage - and our "inexperienced" volunteers really do do something that is of value when they teach on a regular basis.
The question really is whether volunteering (or, similarly, foreign aid) is useful - my experience shows me it is!
Chris Fraser-Jenkins, Kathmandu.

Chris Fraser-Jenkins, Kathmandu, Nepal

Having completed 2 voluntary overseas placements, I can certainly vouch for the value of the work that takes place.
I spent 2 months this year working in a village school in Belize, with time particularly being spent with one 6-yr old boy who had a chemical imbalance in his brain and severe learning difficulties. When my time came to leave the village, the boys' mum took him to the airport to wave me off to show her appreciation, as the boy could hardly speak let alone count before I arrived, but after a lot of time and effort he was counting to 10 and working much better in school. No-one can tell me that voluntary work overseas 'does nothing to help'.
Surely there are companies out there who are in it for the money, but there are others that do have the host countries' best interests at heart. Work of real value can be achieved when the right person comes together with the right company. I found that company in Trekforce Worldwide. I chose them both times and would happily again.

Ste Smith, Stockton, UK

I think people are being too harsh on gap year travellers. Going backpacking instead is highly unlikely to lead to actually getting to know people in different countries in the way that a decent gap year volunteering opportunity can. I did a gap year in Ghana and whilst I don't think I did a massive amount of good, I did get to know people and it massively changed my perspective on the world. Most 18/ 19 year olds don't have that many skills but they are at great age for learning about the world and a good gap year can help them to do this. Yes there are loads of rubbish companies who charge loads for people just hanging out with other Brits but the focus should be on improving the impact of projects on the ground not telling people not to do it.

Helen, Sheffield,

I think it is criminal that these organisations charge so much and the locals never see any of the money. As a student I have spent every summer working voluntarily in Asia, Africa and Europe. I have spent hours searching the internet for organisations which dont actually cost a fortune and have been lucky everytime. People just need to make the effort to look and ensure they dont give their money to these corporate thiefs. And as for the comments about students doing this purely to talk about in a job interview... after 3months living in a rural African orphanage with no running water and nothing but rice to eat but yet choosing to go back again the next summer can think again........ Dont be so cynical about the youth!

Mark, New York City, USA

Wouldn't it be great if middle class young people keen to save the world were informed that the best way for to make a difference would be to stay at home, work for a year stacking shleves at Tesco, keep twenty pounds a week spending money and give the rest directly to a reputable charity like Oxfam.

They get to see the 'real' world they're so keen on and could actually make a difference, as opposed to arroganantly going off to patronise others. Part of me thinks it serves them right that they're getting fleeced.

Dan Atkinson, Harrogate, UK

George, I think your comments are very generalised and also innacurate. I know many people who are now in professions related to correcting the world's problems such as those you mention, and all of them had gap years after school during which they spent time volunteering in a developing country. I myself took a gap year when I was 19; I went to Ghana with a company called Projects Abroad. I paid out all my hard-earned money on a three-month placement and the experience completely altered my entire world perspective. Based on this experience I now study Development with a view to going into a career in this area. Whenever I try to speak to people about development issues, interestingly, those who did not take a gap year are not interested at all.This is not to say that they won't develop an interest later in life, simply that Gap Year students develop this interest a lot sooner and can therefore do more to change things in their lifetimes.

Sarah, London,

I have recently become involved in the gap year industry, and the negative comments I have read frustrate me. I cannot deny that there are companies out there who don't deliver what they promise and people are left disappointed, but what I don’t agree with is that the recent articles on gap year companies have tarred everyone with the same brush. I would suggest that if you are considering taking a gap year that people pick up the phone and ask some questions. Find out how much of your money goes towards the project, find out what the project is and ask to see project reports. Ask to be put in touch with a past volunteer too; there is no one better to speak to than someone who has done the expedition. Trekforce Worldwide encourages contact with volunteers to everyone who gets in touch..

Signing up with a gap year company over going it alone isn't about 'changing the world'. Ultimately it's to get a taste of other cultures, have amazing experiences, and doing it all safely!

Katie Sogorski, Northumberland,

I spend 5 months in Central America last year with Trekforce and loved every second of it. The work we did out there has left nothing put a positive impact on the local communities and surrounding environment. Our two months spent in the jungle undertaking geological surveys was submitted to the Felizian forest dept and because of our studies its now a protected national park which ensures all the wildlife including many endangered speciies is being protected. Also as part of the trip I became teachers assistant in a small community where the standard of English and maths was terrible,due to my help and another volunteer we helped 6 children improve there grades so that they were able to go to high school. I understand this is just my experience but everyone I know who has been with Trekforce has only had positive view about what they do. Other companies are not as well planned nor supported in country. Do your research, choose a good long standing company and ask questions!!

Michael, Enfield, London

This article clearly highlights that you should plan and research your gap year carefully however, I totally disagee with the suggestion that you would be better off just travelling than taking part on a voluntary project. Many of the projects ARE designed to work with and help local communities. In addition to this, and a point which everyone seems to have missed is that by working on voluntary projects, you are fully immersed in a local community and so have a completely different and ultimately more rewarding experience than if you were just travelling. I spent part of my gap year teaching English in India (organised through one of the largest gap year organisations) and as well as making progress with the level of English spoken by my students, by living with a local family and working with local people, I also felt that I learnt a lot more about the culture of the Indian people (and vice versa) than I ever could staying in hostels.

Louise Milnes, Sheffield, UK

To Pete Raines, yes I would like to hear about your 22 years worth of experiences of VSO volunteers...?

Sarah, London,

It's like so many things in life, if you just plunge in without proper research and preparation, what can you expect? One of the problems young people face is where to go for advice they can trust. When parents may have no experience in this field, schools pretend (or worse) that their 'gap year rep' has all the brochures, well-known so-called advisory groups have among their members commercial travel agents pandering to 'voluntourism' for all age groups, and the Internet is stuffed with so much of a highly dubious nature, it's a challenge too far with the spectre of exams looming. But there are plenty of outstandingly good gap providers; it's all about how you get to the best? A gap year consultant is impartial, professional and single-minded in finding the cream for clients - for a few hundred pounds you can save thousands. What is more they can help plan in a holistic way the whole fifteen-month programme.

John Vessey, Oxford, UK

I do understand the argument but it is a very one sided point. Two of my daughters went on organised teaching trips one to India and one to Africa. They gave value to the children that they taught but more importantly they became part of the community staying with the families of the local teachers and understanding fully the enormous issues the local people face. They got enormous and genuine value from the experience. Additionally, when one was hospitalised the company managed the situation immediately. Backpacking is an attractive alternative but your contact with the local communities is often superficial. My advice is chose a quality company that offers quality interaction.

Dermot, Blandford, UK

I am just about to start my gap year, and have been accepted onto the 'Youth for Development' programme of VSO. This is for 18-25 year olds interested in making a real and lasting difference in the developing world, however, you do need a backround in volunteering and development. I will be working in China doing HIV education, in a position based on sharing my skills in a way that is sustainable.
VSO also offer a programme for 6 months based on a global exchange, more suited for gappers. As these programmes are voluntery, you don't pay any huge amount of money, although you are asked to fundraise some, and just like any job, you are assessed in your suitability to fulfil the requirements of a placement, and then trained to the best of your ability.
I recommend VSO to all if you want to make a real difference and expierence a culture from a more intimate perspective, instead of with a group of other people just like you.

Helen, Malvern, UK

It's a shame if young people who do want to do something worthwhile with their gap year are discouraged from doing so by organisations like VSO. Yes, it's vital that projects actually benefit the communities they're supposed to help, but surely it would be more constructive of VSO to worth with the gap year companies and improve things?

In modern Britain we're increasingly seeing the bad effects of a society growing more selfish and less altruistic every day. We will regret it if we actively discourage young people from helping others.

Jacq, Letchworth, Hertfordshire

I am sure the third world will be happy Lily from London will not be to teaching them English

Steve, Vancouver, Canada

I think it's fair to say that if you do anything without proper research then you are going to get stung. You wouldnt buy a car from someone who just says they are trustworthy would you? You'd probably try the car out, at the very least.
Same applies to choosing a worthwhile gap year - I went out to Belize this February with Trekforce Worldwide - they have a 16 year track record and hold info and induction sessions long before you commit to anything. I would say that if you are going to go out to a foreign (and perhaps developing) country then you want to go with someone you trust and not doing your research before hand is just daft. I think everyone who took part in the expedition I was on had a great time and we DID do something incredibly worth while. The cost was well justified and the support was amazing. Trekforce and other companies like them are doing a great job leading these expeditions and helping other countries-please don't tar them with the same brush as those that scam.

Stephen Pike, Jersey, Channel Islands

I agree with the VSO. When I was a student at Sussex many years ago there was a superiority complex among many middle class students that got Mommy and Daddy to pay for them to go out and help those in the developing world. To myself it used to stink of a colonial nobility that offers little more than to fever ones social status and ego. After graduating I myself applied to the VSO to work in India and they wanted me to gain valuable experience in my field before I even considered the emotional and psychological implications of working in such environments. This I believe is a sensible approach compared to the decontextualized notion of poverty that many gap year students hold.

Travel the world and experience different cultures by all means, but don't get in the way of aid and progress through a distorted idealism and natural egoism.

Jim Wootton, London, UK

Can we stop belittling good work young people do,& celebrate what we achieve? We do go out there & make a difference, big or small. If people travelled in order to put something back into this world, maybe we’d have a better place for all. I believe that the right Gap Year organisation, the selection of which is entirely down to ones own efforts and research, can be an ideal building block for a fulfilling future & can really help the environment and people. With a bit of effort you can find an organisation (generally ones that have been around before the market burgeoned), using money for the good of the host country. Ask questions, whether they’re carbon neutral, work with NGOs, where your money is going etc. organisations should be able to answer in full! I thank Trekforce for all it has given me, & would urge anyone at any age, to go out there and make a difference. And perhaps suggest that Gap organisations shouldn’t all be tarred with the same brush.

Isabel, Hereford, UK

I've seen lots of people talking about how so many students do this just to show altruism for job interviews or whatever.. can I just point out, I did one of these expeditions a short wile back (best thing i ever did) and I was NOT doing it out of altruism, and I think most people don't. Feeling we're trying to make a difference and improve things yes is very much a factor, but did you ever think that maybe its just something WE want to do? something we NEED to do? - to learn about ourselves?? -is that so wrong?? Or would you prefer if we just stayed back in sunny old england getting drunk, hurling bottles around and pissing on ur front gardens? (or going backpacking and doing it to other people?)

Julius Howarth, Cheltenham,

I believe that a gap-year student must ask themselves whether they really are there to make a difference.
I believe that all to often students go simply because the destination is exotic, they can absolve their guilt that is provoked by images of poverty and of course to have somthing to prove altruism when it comes to applying for jobs and university.
The issue of VSOs conning gap-year students is a trade descriptions one in my view. It is a hard area to enforce trade legislation in because of its international nature.
Surely we should strive harder for fair trade agreements and debt relief for the developing world rather than send over a bunch of undergraduates to patronise people.
This is not to say that i do not believe that we can assist in humanitarian projects abroad but I believe that we should apply the principle that the beneficiaries of foreign aid should be the recipients, not the middle men and not people straight out of sixth form looking for a feelgood factor.

George, London, England

I spent my gap year working, variously, on a production line in an electronics factory and behind the counter in a chip shop. Both jobs were appallingly badly paid and in the case of the chip shop, physically exhausting. I think it's a given that this provided me a much better introduction to the world of real work than gallivanting around the Third World doing spurious good deeds (even had that been an option, which it was not).

David Gillies, San Jose, Costa Rica

Our son, Alexander, spent 3 months earlier this year teaching in Kenya and our observations are:
* it was a great experience for him and he returned having had his eyes opened and having gained considerable maturity;
* the support provided by the organiser (AAV) was first class and included a week's training before he arrived at the school; and they dealt with his various health issues in a very effective and calm way;
* we would like to think that the school and its pupils benefited from his presence but we assume that the fact that gappies are invited each year to the same schools supports this view; it would be interesting to have views from the schools on this;

We are huge fans of these arrangements provided that the placement is for a meaningful time (at least 3 months), there is a clear role which does not displace a local and that there is real infrastructure to support them on the ground .
ps Alexander would have been better placed to comment but he is still travelling.

Clive Baker, Cambridge,

My Goodness! I hadn't realised till now that in the last 22 years, all the thousands of Coral Cay Conservation volunteers who have so successfully helped create over 20 thriving community-managed marine and forest protected areas worldwide (let's not mention the UNESCO World Heritage Site) and given so much more to local communities, should according to someone at VSO, have simply not bothered and gone travelling instead. In fact, I'm sure they have not realised this themselves - including those several hundreds of naive CCC volunteers (mostly mums and dads themselves) aged 40 and over.

Anyone care to hear of my 22 years of experiences of VSO volunteers?

Pete Raines, Founder, Coral Cay Conservation, London,

Indeed there are many con artists in this business. Those who have simply jumped onto the Gap Year Boom. Unscrupulous, opportuinistic and unethical. I run a Volunteer Mangement Project in urban slums in Port Elizabeth outh Africa. Essentially we manage volunteers in different projects, focussed on HIV and education. Our key role is to ensure sustainability in ther various projercts, and to ensure Volunteers are well prepared and the projects have planned effectively for them. We work primarily with retired/older volunteers, who have a high level of skill. We focus on skill transfer. All our volunteers are screened before they come, to ensure we have no sexual predators, as we work with orphans and vulnerable adults. We disclose exactly whjere the money goes. I have extensive testimony from our projects as to the level of benefit achieved.

So its in the design people. How these programmes are run.

paul miedema, port elizabeth, South Africa

I have to agree with the author of the article on certain points - a lack of benefits to the immediate local community being the most important. Very often I think that short term placements of less than 3 months can create tensions between local communities and volunteers - locals see well off youngsters coming and going, thinking they make a difference, when in fact it takes a long time for volunteers to gain the trust they need to work effectively alongside local communities.
I would recommend to gap year (students) to stay away from big "volunteer" organisations that have offices in Europe and fancy marketing strategies - and focus more on making contact with small grass-roots organisations in the countries themselves. It may be a bit more hard work to find something suitable, but more rewarding in the end.

Bjorn, Geneva, Switzerland

I returned yesterday from three months voluntary teaching in Ghana. When scouring the internet & newspapers last year for a project to volunteer with I made a conscious decision not to pay. I didn't see why I should pay a Western organisation thousands of pounds to build mud huts for three months, as the concept of voluntary work is just that, voluntary. Who in their right mind wants to pay to work?? Unfortunately voluntary work overseas, has become a profitable market for companies and organisations that take little interest in the community they place their volunteers. It would be wonderful if such a reputable & established organisation such as VSO could tap into this market and incorporate it into his own more ethically considered provision. However I imagine the cost of having systems in place to support such a high turn over of inexperienced staff must reduce your profit margins considerably. Hence why I saw so many volunteers left to their own devices, looking bored & apathetic

Sally Hunt, Blandford, Dorset

I am 19 and currently finishing my gap year before going to University.I spent 4 months in Southern Africa. 3 Months of this time was spent in Southern Malawi doing voluntary teaching in a primary school and had the most fantastic experience of my life.

For my final month I travelled in Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania and Kenya, and then did a safari organised by Africa Asia Venture (the company I went with).

The company were brilliant. There was a thorough selection procedure, a superb 4 day orientation course in Kenya before the teaching placement and the support i received whilst in Malawi was superb.

I have now raised over £11,000 for the school I worked at in Malawi..

As long as students do proper research into gap year schemes in developing countries, both the developing country and the gapper can gain a huge amount from the experience! Living in Africa made travelling much safer, enjoyable and easy as I was more prepared for what may happen whilst backpacking in Africa!

Tim Hughes, BRENTWOOD, Essex

a friend of mine went to africa to help build a school. After a month it turned out she was helping to build a mansion for the village chief! She complained and was told to go home as there would be plenty more students to pick up where she left off!

chris, wirral,

I grew up in Africa and have spent most of my life in the so called 3rd world. I am frustrated that aid organisations tend to employ managers with no experience of the country they are sent to. This is where most of the money is wasted. If you gave me acces to a few million pounds to help Papua New Guinea or Zimbabwe I could easily ensure it was handled in a way that the vast majority of the money was used constructively and not absorbed by "administration" expenses or given to those who simply steal it. Unfortunately I don't have much experience in London so I won't be called upon.

Gary Daniels, New Plymouth, New Zealand

This is the way of the world at present. As soon as a noteworthy project springs to fruition, there is some parisitic vine of a company seeking to overrun the progress with some corrupt scheme. If the desire to volunteer is genuine and naturally it will also be fuelled by the need to build your CV or some other reason propelled by self, then research your options carefully and choose a programme that is reputable.

Tyesha, Kingston, Jamaica

VSO is right on the money with its comments and I couldn't agree more. By paying for the 'privilege' these are not true volunteers at all. There is a strong possibility that the companies advertising them as such are conning the students into thinking that by embarking on the endeavour that they will make a difference. There is no way that a glorified travel company can send young people into the areas that actually need the help, as what as really required are people with knowledge and experience in the field who are prepared to live in basic accommodation on a basic diet, in often torrid conditions, miles from anywhere for fairly lengthy periods of time. Sending young people out to help build concrete block outhouses in villages that don't need them year after year is futile, a complete waste of money and is a joke amongst the villagers. If they want to make a difference in the impoverished nations of the world, they should try to join a legitimate organisation full-time for a year

M Worby 'Homeless And Poor Peoples Initiative', Cape Town, South Africa

When in UK in the late ‘90’s I contacted VSO and quickly concluded they only wanted the know-nothing, been-nowhere gap-year student crowd. Information was only available on a premium-line fax connection, and that contained spurious, time-padding pages. So forget VSO. If you really want to get stuck in at the sharp end, look on the web. I found an aid worker guy working with and for Akha Hill Tribes in Northern Laos. He'd been deported from Thailand, so I met up with him in Vientiane. Was with him for a bit. Now he’s speaking in the UN denouncing the Queen of Thailand for stealing Akha land. Obviously no plan to return to Thailand. Also exposing the crimes of NGO and missionary groups. Do a web search under “Eradicated children”. What goes around comes around.

Andrew Milner, Yokohama, Japan

As someone who left university with no idea what to do, a gap year was the perfect solution. Last year i spent 7 months teaching at a school in Kenya and this was the BEST experience of my life. Now this might all sound perfectly normal but my experience was cut dramatically short when i was attacked and stabbed in the neck and beaten whilst visiting a local beauty spot. I can only be thankful for the organization (Africa and Asia Venture)that i was working with as they were fantastic. They sorted me out, told (and reassured) my parents and got me home.And they supported the people who had been with me and seen my attack. Not only that but they have kept in regular contact with me to see how I am. I know there are stories of peoples who's experiences are not what they expected but my issue is that if we say 'people shouldn't use this organizations ' that if they were placed in my position would they have the support and the knowledge of what to. Organizations like mine are invaluable

Catherine , Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear

I have recently returned from a so-called TEFL course in Tulum, Mexico. As 'expedition members' we were supposed to have been taught how to teach english as a foreign language. Our trainers were unqualified to train us, having minimal experience of TEFL themselves and no associated degree. Furthermore the Mexicans we 'practised on' , were not forewarned of our learner status. The organisers refused to provide the Mexican students with any written materials - they frowned apon books!- so I prepared and paid for my own type-written handouts to give to students. TEFL trainees had to make their own resources from items brought to the country by themselves so we ended up with scraps of paper. When i told my 'trainer' that I was ashamed to deliver such lessons - she marked me a 'failing' the teaching. I've since qualified.
The marketing of these and similar courses is doubly heinous because it takes cash out of the charity market.

Wendy Trollope, hove, east sussex

So many people commenting that 'they' had a great time. I don't doubt it. The main issue raised by VSO was about the degree to which the communitites in which you worked might be benefitting from your fleeting visit. However fantastic the pit latrine, the fact remains that 'whites' dropping in to 'help' re-enforces negative attitudes in people's competence and ability to find solutions to their own problems.

One of my Ghanaian students once said to me "Sir, a black man could never have invented the motorcar". One of his piers should have been there to answer that question, not me.

Matthew Bates, London,

It is interesting how strongly people feel about this issue. It is interesting that it is such a big issue. I agree with all the comments made which state that it is a shame that people want to discourage well-meaning youngsters from having optimism and enthusiasm. Ali makes the very good point that ‘instead of lauding those that do go on these volunteer projects as "arrogant, ignorant and naive" surely their enthusiasm and desire to do good should be encouraged’. I disagree with Ms Brodie when she says that students should choose backpacking over volunteering. Backpacking will only give you short, shallow insights into new cultures, and you will only make a difference to the income of those who work in the tourist industry (who are likely to be among the richest members of society already). When I was 19, I chose to risk that ‘big hole (in my) wallet’, and I have never regretted it. So I would encourage anyone thinking of taking part in a volunteering project to take that risk too.

Sarah, London,

I have had the great pleasure of working directly and indirectly with Trekforce Worldwide for many years in Guyana (often for little or no wage) and I believe that it is one of the most positive and constructive things I have done. I also believe that as an experience for those volunteers it was priceless and having returned to Guyana in the last 12 months, I have met up with those local people who we worked with and who are still reaping the rewards of the positive influence such a key player like Trekforce has had in a number of countries throughout the world.

I accept that there are probably a number of rouge companies but there are some outstanding companies - please feel free to write a two sided balanced article or to at least write the other half of this article you have published.

Did you do a conservation project in a year out?
Do you anyone who has?
Are VSO feeling the pinch in a competitve market place?

Geoff Corbett, worcester,

As someone who has been on a gap-year to Africa, where I did teaching work, I can agree with this. I left with the feeling that much of the work I was doing could have been done by the locals- the difference was that they hadn't the capital to volunteer on the projects for free, and no-one could afford to pay their wages. Part of me can't help thinking that if potential gap-yearers gave the money that such placements cost to bona-fede charities, rather than using it to jet off to these countries to teach themselves, the positive impact would be far greater. The amount I spent on my placement could have paid the salary of two local teachers for a year- creating employment and providing education. Moreover, the school at which I was working was fee-paying, and so the social impact it was having was debatable.

ex-gap-yearer, Oxford, England

I welcome this debate.I started travel-peopleandplaces with the guidance of Professor HaroldGoodwin( expert in responsible travel ) because my experience as a volunteer ( mature I might add) together with the stories I heard from others, lead us to believe that neither communities nor volunteers were being best served by most of the traditional recruitment organisations.There are some good organisations out there, but it is incumbent upon potential volunteers to ask the right questions.
A code of practise is a great idea, but who will police it and who will ensure it doesnt become watered down window dressing?
So potential gappers...old and young...ask the right questions do your research...the power of the consumer is what will change this market.
The demand for short term volunteer opportunities is strong,particularly in the career break sector.May I suggest that instead of using its position to condemn this demand VSO works to champion best practise we will happily join them

sallie grayson, faversham,

I am just wondering why these students have to offer their help by going abroad,can't they do sth helpful for some people in need just in their own countries??In would rather go abroad for traveling,or just give some money to some crarities to help."never waste your time on some helpless things",that's my advice.

aaron13, Guangzhou Guangdong, China

I believe that gap year projects are a superb idea, expanding the horizons of the youths of our country and expanding and exposing other, often remote, communities to the outside world. I feel that even the smallest project will benefit a great number of people in many different ways. The reason that young people do these organised projects is because they are young, inexperienced in world matters, underconfident and often a lone traveller, so having the safety net of an organisation and fellow volunteers is a huge benefit and I am sure a great reassurance for parents and loved ones at home. Gap year projects are expensive, but I truly believe that what you put in you will recieve back in experiences, friendships, and confidence whilst benefiting other people and communities around the world, encouraging a global community and awareness.

Olivia Eva, Manchester,

I was sorry to hear of what happened to Sarah Oakes but unfortunately it is not uncommon. I am a member of a local charity in East Lancashire called the Bethany Project (an orphanage for 125 children in Tanzania).

We are looking for volunteers (of any age) to teach our children English for two weeks (or longer if appropriate). The cost would be around £700 and you would accompany an experienced team leader. Support and guidance would be given. For further information please go to www.bethanyonline.org

I appreciate that this sounds like a promotional advert but feel that the local charity is better able to provide a sustainable project where the needs of the children come first through regular contact from the UK and close financial supervision.

David Borland OBE, Clitheroe,

I spent 2 months in the jungles of Belize with Trekforce Worldwide on a conservation project - Best experience of my life. The aim was to create a new national park around a beautiful area of jungle including a 350ft waterfall. This would help attract visitors to the area, giving jobs and income to locals.
I think for Ms Brodie to urge gap year students to go backpacking instead is utterly counter-productive & unnecicarry.
It wouldn't suprise me to hear that there are one or two scam organisations out there, but thats like warning people never to go away on holiday because theres a teeny chance you MAY get scammed. Face it, it happens in anything. If you do proper research (e.g. reading responses from past volunteers) and compare multiple organisations prior to booking your place, with a little common sence there should be no problems.
Personally, I intend to return to the jungle and other remote environments in the future, as it was such a great experience.

Julius Howarth, Cheltenham,

I must say I agree with the above article. Many Gap year companies charge up to £4000 which does not include flight tickets and the money does very little to help the community it is supposed to be benefiting. I have recently returned from a two month volunteering placement, teaching in a school near Kalimpong in the Indian Himalayas. I purposefully avoided the 'gap year scams' and instead did my placement through a registered British charity called HELP, run by Jim Coleman. It is a non profit organisation, and the registration fee is just £150 which goes towards administration costs. Instead, you pay the host family an accommodation fee by taking the money with you and giving it straight to them. HELP encourages people to sponsor children through their education; there is vast poverty in the Himalayan region many families cannot afford to send their child to school. Sponsorship is usually between £6-£12 per month. Unfortunately such charities do not get the publicity they deserve.

Mairi McGivern, Lincoln, UK

Backpacking around the world as VSO says will only give perspective on the things we wish to see. With these packages and arranged holidays, we are forced to experience the entire reality of what we have volunteered for. If we choose to see then it can make a huge impact on us as human beings giving back to those we think necessary. Even if we help a little, it will be worth it for those who have benefitted from our help, even a little can go a long way.
Of course people truely need to think seriously about the schemes they are signing up for if they truely did want to make a difference as some would not even benefit one community. But to learn skills from us such as English, computer skills, business skills and finding a way in society could help move developing countries into the future, rather than holding them back by ignoring their needs and travelling past waving with huge smiles on our face because we are not the ones living in their lives, suffering their torments.

Sarah, Horsham,

I used to work as head of finance for a development charity and realise that the general point of this article is entirely true. I never travelled abroad despite many invitations as I didn't want to waste the money which had been donated.

I don't disagree with the detail of the article but what the article fails to address is the two real reasons why (real) development charities take people overseas.

The trips are primarily justified on the grounds of advocacy and the benefits that the trips bring to the individual. In raising profile of third world issues there really is little better than first hand tales from someone you know - media is very superficial these days but people aren't (always).

Secondly most of those who go overseas turn into excellent givers and supporters in the long term - it is one reason why aid is such a "youth" issue.

Finally these trips are good for the kids who go - giving to charity is as much about what it does to the giver as the receiver.

Benjamin, Fairford,

VSO were right to point out that many organisations are wrongfully profiting from gap year students, but I think it's wrong to state as fact that gap year volunteers "only do it to put something good on their cv". Ofcourse there are those who are motivated to do gap years from more selfish reasons, but on a whole it's misguided people genuinely looking to do something, anything to help. We are bombarded everyday with images and articles of how terrible conditions are in the developing world, at school students are not given any guidance on what to do with their gap years. There are some reputable charities such as project trust who send volunteers for 12 months (£4190), after a selection course, to do community based work. I am leaving for south africa in two weeks, teaching for the year. I am not expecting to change lives or cure the world, but when I finish medicine at university I hope to pursue a career overseas. I've always wanted to do this, and I'm grateful that I can.

Charley, Kilrea,

Every 2 - 3 years, me and my dad travel to parts of india or africa and we look out for people, we started by spending £1500 - £2000 on a family, the money would go along way, we would set the family up with a home, supplies and equipment to make their life better, we also get the children to attend school as well as provide the family with a vehicle if we can.

This is what student's should do if they want to help! with their money, we never give the money too anyone in one larage sum, as it can cause problems..

This is very rewarding to do, just to think to yourself that you have made someones life better is always a good feeling..

Adam Webb, Mk, UK

I recently completed an MA in Sustainable Development and the subject of my research was the ability of Volunteer Tourism to bring about Sustainable Development. It concentrated on a small reforestation project in Kenya marketed by i-to-i.
I found i-to-i to be very professional in its orgainisation of the trip but that their idea of what constitutes SD and how to monitor the impact of the projects provided severely lacking. Essentially what was recorded was at the discretion of the in-country co-ordinator and no formal checks were made. Without this I fail to see how they can claim to make a positive impact / difference.
Despite these findings however, I do believe there is a place for volunteer tourism in Sustainable Development but that the industry requires some regulation and that srtudents should take advice when making choices about the trips they chose to go on.

Clare Morefield, Gloucester, Glos

As a VSO volunteer currently serving as part of their youth programme,I can see it from both sides.
So many young people want to rush out and "make a difference",and commerical companies are taking advantage of this, offering packages,without much research done on the local situation.People on voluntourism trips rarely put much thought into the impact, positive and negative, that their presence and influence will have on the locals, let alone on the often sparse resource base. A recently visiting group from a UK uni just proved how damaging and thoughtless some visitors can be. However, if managed and prepared properly, gap year volunteers can be an invaluable resource in the development context, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm where it is needed. Development work isn't glamourous, it's damn hard work and not for the faint-hearted.
If anyone really wants to make a difference on their travels, they should think hard about how, what and why before even booking their ticket.

Isabelle, Windhoek, Namibia

My daughter "works" for one such voluntary agency in Central America that offers so-called conservation projects, at considerable expense, to the volunteers. She is paid peanuts, apparently has no proper medical cover (despite repeated requests to the HQ), has to pacify disillusioned volunteers as well as organise all their activities. Not only do volunteers need to choose carefully, others should be wary of the "management" posts of offer. The agency has charitable status, but who is making the money??

John, Glasgow, Scotland

My daughter went on a voluntary project with one of the companies you have highlighted and it was a sham!
I paid for her to do 2 projects but ended up cancelling the 2nd one because of lack of organisation and also the fact that the locals she was working with, were all despondant at the fact that the money was being withheld and they were actually behind in payments for them. This was causing untold problems with the project.
At some points, we both felt that her safety was compromised due to lack of proper organisation.
I also completed a gap year at the same time and would advise that the best way to learn from different cultures, is to travel to them and see how they live first hand.
Well done for highlighting this subject.

sharon barnes, manchester,

I have just spent almost the last year volunteering with VSO in Nigeria, which was a wonderful experience, for the most part because it was well structured sustainable development work, working within a local community and with local partners.

I am suspicious of any 'gap year' organisation that insists young people pay up to £4,000 to volunteer. Many of them are a sham.

And funnily enough, I didn't meet a single gap year student during all of my time in Nigeria. Could it be that Nigeria is not the 'glamourous' African country that many people are looking for when they want to go away?

Amy , Manchester, UK

Having just come back from a volenteer scheme and building a house for a family, then seeing them move in, I find it hard to believe these schemes don't help the communities. Admittedly some may be poorly researched and ill-thought out, but the marjority are doing great things for people who really need the help they are recieving.

Robert Whelan, Kingston, U.K

I went on a month long project arranged via i-to-i in 2004 as part of a 6 month round the world trip. This was to manage a library at an NGO in Bangkok. I found it an extremely interesting and rewarding experience and I know that although my time there had little overall impact on their work, it was nonetheless a usefull contribution. I-to-i also organised impeccable back up for my time there and I felt that had there been an emergency, they would have been able to help me.
However, both myself and the other two English people working there did speculate as to where our money went, as we were certain that most of it did not end up with the NGO. I have beliveved for some time that if you really want to work with an NGO, you are better off organising it through them and arranging your own back up. VSO have raised a very important issue, and an open debate about this can only help to make people more aware of their real impact.

Frances Roberson, Crydon, UK

I think the above article is biased and actually fails to mention what good work is actually carried out through gap year organisations.
This year I have been teaching in Kenya for 4 months with the year out organisation Africa and Asia Venture.
Whilst there I saw my volunteer work benefit such a wide range of individuals: The pupils in my class excelled compared to their last exams, my help in the local hospital benefited the local community and my work with the town's orphans made a massive difference.
Yes it does cost a lot of money but what one achieves from this type of venture is priceless.
There are I am sure organisation's out there who do take advantage, but you have to do your research first and actually know what the scheme is offering you.
In conclusion I would choose doing what I did with AV over any amount 'of backpacking around the world' and I know my work has changed people's lives.

Kylie Taylor, Gloucestershire,

I couldn't agree more. Young people have good intentions but are very naive to believe that they are making any difference. Most of the time this type of volunteering does nothing more than provide a temporary relief for their middle class guilt - and line someone's pockets, of course. If you want to travel, then by all means do travel, but if you want to volunteer, why not do it locally? It may not be as exotic but I'm sure there will be plenty of worthy causes.

Anna, London,

I think it's dangerous to generalise - it depends on the organisation.

At a time when rainforests, reefs and other fragile environments are under increasing pressure from logging, agriculture etc, teams of volunteers can provide valuable manpower assisting in (often under-funded) national parks and scientific projects.

For many years Trekforce Worldwide (until recently a not-for-profit organisation) and a handful of others, have carried out valuable scientific and conservation projects in the forests of South East Asia and South and Central America, working with local communities to provide much-needed infrastructure in national parks and research areas.

Sadly, with so many new companies in the market, (many more concerned with their balance sheets) its hard for customers to know which ones promote worthwhile projects.

So full marks to VSO for producing a code of good practice (although, isn't that a bit like Walmart publishing a guide to good supermarkets?)...

Greg , Bristol,

I volunteered with VSO’s Youth for Development Scheme whilst at University. VSO’s approach to volunteering was focused on what you could learn from your colleagues and the country you were working in as well as what skills you could offer to the organisation you were placed with. Each role was carefully thought out and matched with your own skills and experience to ensure that both parties benefited. VSO/YFD provided comprehensive training before leaving for the project. We had the opportunity to talk with employers before departure. Past volunteers provided opportunity to ask questions and prepare yourself for life overseas as well as your job. Your placement was monitored during its progression. I agree with VSO’s comments and was very impressed with the structured way VSO worked and cared just as much about the volunteers as their constructive impact in their chosen country. My year volunteering with VSO has led to me being matched with another organisation where I now work in a professional capacity in Sudan.

Katie, Khartoum, Sudan

My niece went to a third world country with one of the big companies offering gap year projects. The people running the project were quite hostile to volunteers and she was not warned about local dangers. She had to find out for herself not to go out at 7 pm when all the drug deals were being done and there was lots of violence. No proper arrangements had been made for her arrival and she was living in really uncomfortable and crowded accommodation, and this was not fixed up till she actually arrived. She thought the whole thing was a money making shambles. She felt she did get something out of the trip but it was despite the company not because of it. Hearing her stories on her return we felt these companies should be scrutinised and regulated far more closely - they're obviously just money making enterprises. And parents should look pretty hard at them too if theyre overly concerned about their childrens' safety!

ja, London,

I was involved as a group doctor on a project in Borneo last year. The project was simply to build a drying room for samples in a research project looking at reforestation. The project meant that samples were not being transported every day for some five hours to a main centre.

We were not changing the world but making a small impact locally. The group enjoyed the project and the time they spent treking afterwards and living in the jungle during the project was on the whole a new experience for most of them.

I agree with some of the points made by Raleigh and VSO, but suggesting that gap year students should simply back pack for a year and not even consider some volunteer work seems a little rash. There are good companies out there and research into the projects and organisations is the key.

olly Dodd, Beijing, China

Isn't it i-to-i who have been taken over by First Choice Holidays? I think that says it all really. I'm off to work on a conservation project in Kenya very soon and it's taken time and effort to find an organisation that I trust to be doing something of real value. And I'm 36, not 18. My Kenyan contacts have been complaining for a long time of the "gappers" who come in for anything from a few weeks to a few months, contribute nothing of any worth and leave, having "done" Africa or South America, or wherever. Often these the gappers have no real commitment to the projects they are working on, often turning up late or not at all, and treating it like an extended holiday. They are sent to work in orphanages, schools & with street children who need a high level of dedication which they do not give, therefore there is no basis of trust. Companies like i-to-i also often require projects to sign a contract that means they are the project's sole supplier, and so the cycle is perpetuated

Nicky Butler, London, UK

As VSO said, there are some fantastic gap year opportunities out there and some not so good ones which makes it imperative to ask the right questions to separate out the good from the bad. Key questions include where is the money going to?, How do organisation's assess the impact of their programmes?; what training is provided; and what kind of support is available both prior to and during the programme? SPW (www.spw.org) for example, offers long term sustainable development health education programmes lasting 5 - 11 months in Africa and Asia that are based in rural communities alongside local counterparts. A key area that gap year companies often ignore is the involvement of local stakeholders on the ground. Having a programme that is led by all stakeholders rather than by Western volunteers from developed countries is the surest way for projects to make a positive long term development impact that goes beyond the individual's placement.

Frank Harle, Upminster, England

Everyone's cynicism regarding Gap Year organisations is overwhelming and frankly quite saddening.

They exist to help to facilitate community projects and small scale conservation work around the world, and to allow individuals from all walks of life the opportunity to not only experience new cultures but also to work alongside them for a short period of time. This is designed not to 'change the world' but to open people's eyes as to the harsh realities of life in parts of the world outside of our mollycoddled England. It is a two way educational experience, and one that can act as a catalyst for change in many countries, as well as a boon for local industry.

To think that backpacking around Thailand getting drunk is a more valuable way to spend your time is laughable. What is needed is tighter controls and standards to make sure that the organisation you travel with is operating correctly and not exploiting some people's desire to try to make a difference and to give something back

Matt Leggett, Berwick Upon Tweed,

Fascinating to think that an 18 year old could think that they have so much to teach the world. Yes, makes sense to me that they get out and learn something instead.

Maureen, Banjul, The Gambia

Whilst we agree with the comments in the article we are a charity working in the independent adventure gap year space where recent huge growth has led to many serious incidents largely due to poor planning and lack of local support. Check out www.gapaid.org .

Pat French, Oxford, U.K.

I don't understand the whole concept of people here 'helping' people in other countries in areas they are not qualified in - aren't the people in these developing countries capable of doing these jobs themselves? I don't see how a british student will be able to do something that cannot be done by those living in that country. Can they not build their own wells, count there own marine life...etc..

sophie, london, uk

I am a nursing student whos sole intention of becoming a nurse is to spend the my days traveling and working in countries where i feel i would make a difference i.e. africa rather than cleaning the bed pans in my local hospital (though that too makes a difference in a small way)
I agree that the indvidual would get alot more out of thier trip if it was planned and carried out by themselves, that way if a time comes to help and give back to someone in need then in it is done so by chance and not forced, howvever..

in regards to fatima i feel he/she is being unfair; with comments such as "good doers" and "stay at home in own communities"
surely he/she were once a good doer who realised that the needs of others exceeded further than ones own communitie.

i respect the words of john thorpe, there is obvilously a lot of good positvie energy which is just sadly being taking advantage of.
surely this will to want to help others can be chanelled into something that beneftis the whole.

Lee Smith, Southampton, England

I can only commend VSO's position wholeheartedly. After 18 years of work in the "development" sector in (West and Central) Africa, Cina and Mongolia, I have seen a lot of young people wanting to do good. The "good" they did more often backfired than not, in most cases not showing any positive effect on the ground for the locals. It seems symptomatic for western youth to go out into the "world" with so-called good intentions, an attitude which in itself may be laudable but with no deeper consideration for those people they want to "help". It is, in my opinion, more a sign of arrogance, ignorance and naivity showing very little consideration for the rights and the environment of foreign people. The "good doers" should think of staying at home and help the poeple in their own communities. Should they wish to travel the world, also as backpackers, super, but then let please them leave enough foreign currency behind for those poor hosts in their yurts, tents and log cabins they descend on.

Fatima, Edinburgh,

The gleemingly obvious paradox of having to pay a small fortune to offer your services for free is definitely a questionable practise. However, instead of lauding those that do go on these volunteer projects as "arrogant, ignorant and naive" surely their enthusiasm and desire to do good should be encouraged and guided into a more productive scheme??
I find it highly offensive that those who want to volunteer (myself being one of them) should be degraded in such a fashion. Our enthusiasm and, yes, idealism should be encouraged and instead of it being sneered at, it should be directed in a productive manner to some charities that do offer an ability to do some good.
So maybe someone could make a useful response and suggest a way to find a volunteer placement for a company that has long term sustainable assistance as its main priority and is not taking advantage of the recent surge in "voluntourism"?

Ali, London,

I taught English in India for 3 months to children of the Lepcha tribe, indigenous to the Himalaya. My role was to help these children, whose first language is Lepcha but who have to learn English via their 2nd language, Nepali, to develop their skills in English pronunciation and conversation. Both of which are inaccessible to their school teachers who often depend entirely upon 1950s text books to teach the children English. The pupils' confidence and proficiency has significantly improved and for a tribe who are becoming increasingly marginalised this is crucial. To avoid becoming sidelined in an increasingly modern India they need to have a good level of English which is still a crucial aspect of the Indian legal and media industries. aside from this it stops Lepcha children falling behind their Nepali speaking peers for whom English is their 2nd rather than 3rd language. well chosen volunteer work can be helpful and should not be condemned in such an indiscriminate fashion

Sophy Searight, Cardiff, England

While, I agree with some of the VSO criticisms of Gap-year placements by volunteer companies, the overall impression given is unduly negative and off putting. (Rosemary Bennett’s report 14 August)
I write as one with a good deal of experience of the volunteering business, having worked for a major company (i-to-i) and now doing own placements in Costa Rica via a small venture of my own.
It is misleading to suggest that; in general, companies are so preoccupied with making money that their approach to individual projects is irresponsible. The malpractices cited by VSO could certainly not be said to be typical of a company like i-to-i. What they show is simply that some who are in this business fall short in their standards they apply.
My experience is that gaper volunteers can indeed make a valuable contribution to conservation work as well as teaching English. Those in Costa Rica who have been working on turtle projects are really committed to their work, which is of an extre

Elizabeth Summerscale, London, England

I strongly agree with many of Ms Brodie's points. However, this article fails to recognise that this isn't the only option. There are some not-for-profit organisations out there whose main concern is to ensure that volunteers they send abroad are placed in projects where they are genuinely needed. I have just returned from my gap year, where I volunteered with Gap Activity Projects, a charity, who did not charge me even a fraction of what some gap year "businesses" do. My 6 months of volunteering were, without any doubt, a mutually beneficial exercise, and I don't think it is "arrogant, ignorant nor naive" for any young person to want to do this if their motivation is genuine. Just please, don't pay some profit-making firm a large sum to do it. The sooner people start to realise just what these gap year "companies" actually do, maybe some of the more genuine organisations/charities, such as GAP, will be able to send yet more volunteers abroad to places where help is desperately needed.

Jamie Matthew, St. Albans, UK

While this article raises valid points about certain gap year organisations, it does imply that there are some out there with the power to actually help communities. i am leaving in 16 days for my gap year. i am going with a well established organisation , and though I do have to pay over £4000 for my year it is going to a good cause. my project is well structured and I will be teaching in india in a volunteer capacity, so I am not depriving any locals of a job. I am not going out to India with the naive presumption that i will change the world or make a huge difference to this community, but my time will not be wasted. to those peolpe who have said that young people are unrealistic going , I disagree. I will also be taking on a secondary project working with sdtreet children as there is no-one else to do it. If you are arrogant enough to think that people cannot help, then I feel sorry for you. Optimism is not simply for the so-called "naive".

Molly, coleraine, Northern ireland

Some schemes do rip you off as it is a very lucrative market. However, the generalisation that all gap year aid projects are a sham is unfair and untrue.
What students must do is to look for the right organisation to do a project with. It is no good to 'simply travel'. Observing the poverty and not doing anything about it is selfish, and treating poverty like a tourist attraction.
By making sure you do a project, not only do you become more involved in the culture you help out as well. It is important to make a long lasting change but sometimes every little helps.
The advice going out should be to choose your company wisely, not 'to forget foreign aid projects'. It is a reckless headline and is will affect in a major way, the company's that spend the time and hard work to make sure projects are worthwhile, and haven't sold out by overcharging their customers.
I went to Kenya with Africa Venture, was well looked after, and I subsequently set up a £2000 scholarship at my school.

James Bentley, London, England

I recently taught in Ghana for a month whilst researching into how these projects are received by the host communities. Many Ghanaians encouraged voluntourism and were shocked when I suggested there were negatives, such as its neo-colonial connotations. I'm not naive, I'm aware they were more bothered about the money I supposedly had because I'm white than my teaching efforts. But in my school, the teachers were no more qualified than I, and actually, the fact that I paid to be there and only for a short time meant I put a lot of effort into my teaching, particularly compared to the 20 year old Ghanaians, regularly abandoning their classes. True I didn’t make a big difference but getting one boy able to do addition is something, and his subsequent smile made me, and him, very happy. It’s easy to generalise about gap year projects. Perhaps some are unhelpful, but others do help, or at least give the West an insight into the reality of Africa, be it better or worse than they thought.

Lauren, Derby,

I am just about to start my gap year, and have been accepted onto the 'Youth for Development' programme of VSO. This is for 18-25 year olds interested in making a real and lasting difference in the developing world, however, you do need a backround in volunteering and development. I will be working in China doing HIV education, in a position based on sharing my skills in a way that is sustainable.
VSO also offer a programme for 6 months based on a global exchange, more suited for gappers. As these programmes are voluntery, you don't pay any huge amount of money, although you are asked to fundraise some, and just like any job, you are assessed in your suitability to fulfil the requirements of a placement, and then trained to the best of your ability.
I recommend VSO to all if you want to make a real difference and expierence a culture from a more intimate perspective, instead of with a group of other people just like you.

Helen, Malvern, UK

What a shame that you think like this. It is fantastic to volunteer if you choose the right company. It can benefit communities, the environment and wildlife as well as provide volunteers with a true understanding of how communities live overseas.

By choosing to travel independently you can often find yourself in a hostel drinking beer with other 18 year olds from the UK. Surely without even seeing the benefit to others you can see how this alone means that volunteering overseas is a positive step.

A final thought for you - Without our gap year volunteers QUEST's projects overseas would not have £1million in financial aid. We are one company - imagine how much difference all of us put together can make. Could you turn to the children we sponsor in Malawi and tell them that we will no longer fund them?

Jo, Brighton, UK

I think it is obvious students deciding to take a gap year should be careful when choosing a voluntary paid for project. However, when picking the correct one the projects can be extremely worthwile in areas where the local communties are pleased with any help they can get. In Febuary this year I went to Belize in Central America with Trekforce. I had researched them thoroughly beforehand and this proved vital in my decision to go away with them. They offer challenging, but more importantly worthwile work. It not about going to some under priveleged country and sitting on your ass, its hard craft and I certaintly didn't do it to make me feel better about myself. The area where we went to work was suffering from a lack of tourism where there were many attractive natural features. With the decline of tourism due to alck of facilities it was looking like the area would have to cut down more of their jungle in order to bring money into the area. Trekforce is mainly about protecting this.

Harry Harris, Burnham-On-Crouch, Essex

It costs a lot of money for students to travel and work on over seas placements. Why not just send £4000 instead to reputable,established Missionary societies who use every penny to good effect.

Flatroofer, Llandrindod Wells, Radnor County

However well-intentioned the students are, they need to learn one rule of the real world very quickly. A market always targets its goods and services for maximum attractiveness to the paying customer. In these cases, the paying customer is the student (even if the cash does flow ultimately from the parent). And where there is money the unscrupulous are sure to follow, both hands wide open and grasping ...

KR, Stockport,

Third world needs professionals, simple as that, tAgree with all said, unless you have proper skills that are of use, don't bother. get a back pack and get out of the way.

john, london,

I am the In Country Coordinator in Honduras, Central America for i-to-i, I was born and raised here and I witness on a daily the benefits we have due to having volunteers. In the past 5 years of having hosted them we have built 129 homes, 3 schools, 13 schools now have English language lessons at no cost for the school! Added to this the help we had after Hurricane Mitch devastated our country.

So seeing things from this end, from a third world country who gets benefited by this kind of organizations I find articles like this one so damaging, do you not realize how much people will stop getting benefited?

Elisa, Honduras - Central America

Elisa Cristina Taylor, Tegucigalpa, Honduras

i have just returned from 4 months teaching english in kenya with the gap year company av. they provided for me the perfect level of support i needed while away from home but really let me fend for myself. we were a fairly large group scattered throughout north east kenya and i can say hand on heart it was a fantastic experience for all. i have never felt so appreciated and at home as i did there, i was welcomed into their lives and did feel that my maths and english classes really helped them. our donation was greatfully recieved and put to good use. the children made it just much fun to be there and i was so content i hope to go back. i think with the right agency these trips can be fantastic, we were just very lucky to be supported by such a fantastic network of people who chose us all so carefully. i really hope all this stuff doesnt put people of going. i had an amazing time and would recommend it to anyone.

anon, salisbury, wiltshire

Of all the international projects, it's work with abandoned children that upsets me the most. Volunteers will go in, form a bond with the children and then leave after a few months. For the child, yet another role model in their life has abandoned them, causing untold emotional damage in children growing up in institutions.

I'm in China now, working in an office for a children's charity. Because of the rerasosn above, I'm not working with the children but having a whale of a time knowing that I'm making a difference, even indirectly.

Csp, Beijing,

I would stay at home and do a lot of good in your own neighborhood. What with all the floods there recently, I know there is a lot of work to be done on behalf of all those affected. Many Spring Break students here went to New Orleans to help out, but that was for a shorter period of time. Even then, I don't know where they found housing. I say bloom where you are planted. Cheers!

Miss May, Chattanooga, Tennessee

I can only commend VSO's position wholeheartedly. After 18 years of work in the "development" sector in (West and Central) Africa, Cina and Mongolia, I have seen a lot of young people wanting to do good. The "good" they did more often backfired than not, in most cases not showing any positive effect on the ground for the locals. It seems symptomatic for western youth to go out into the "world" with so-called good intentions, an attitude which in itself may be laudable but with no deeper consideration for those people they want to "help". It is, in my opinion, more a sign of arrogance, ignorance and naivity showing very little consideration for the rights and the environment of foreign people. The "good doers" should think of staying at home and help the poeple in their own communities. Should they wish to travel the world, also as backpackers, super, but then let please them leave enough foreign currency behind for those poor hosts in their yurts, tents and log cabins they descend on.

Fatima, Edinburgh,

Whilst I am sure VSO are right in their warnings to students, let us be careful. In our country we live in what has become a very selfish culture and we do not want to extinguish the light of 'helping' other people. We know already that the student population have to work hard for their futures and that many incure debts through student loans, many students cannot afford to 'back-pack' and when they do the may become the target for the element of the criminal classes that is every country. They may also find themselves abused in countries that they have no knowledge about.
At least VSO that was organised by good companies gave them a better surety of safety.
Let is not become a purely selfish society and let us encourage the Young to go and help those of other countries and through they learn more of their culture and way of life. This may, in the long run, give us all a better understanding and lead to more peace in thsi world.

a.watts, Loughborough, England

Either way, hats off to the kids doing these gap years. At least they're not hanging around on street corners taking drugs and scaring old ladies!

Rod Munch, Northampton, UK

Shame that I was misquoted to fit the piece! In reply:

Background facts
===============
- gapyear.com is a portal. We do NOT run our own placements as stated. We provide access to others
- VSO has its own Gap Year placements that compete with other providers being 'rubbished' in pieces like these from their press release
- Less than 6% volunteer overseas on their gap year at 18 (not huge numbers)
- ‘Teaching’: most 18 year olds help with reading / pronunciation (global shortage of volunteers to do this) as opposed to teaching a syllabus
- Millions of pounds raised by these volunteers have gone directly into projects overseas

Yes, we do see some volunteer complaints, however, it's often due to expectations being too high (wanting to 'change the third world'). The vast majority have a good experience and make a difference to the lives of others.

VSO are right to highlight any problems and whilst we welcome 'another' useful code of practice maybe regulation with teeth is now needed?

Tom Griffiths, Founder of gapyear.com, Ipswich, UK

Do/did students ever really think they were making a difference? Bizzare stuff if they did.

What the article highlights is that such voluntary work is just a money making con. How do such "gap years" benefit real locals? You must be joking.

Tim, London, England

I can only commend VSO's position wholeheartedly. After 18 years of work in the "development" sector in (West and Central) Africa, Cina and Mongolia, I have seen a lot of young people wanting to do good. The "good" they did more often backfired than not, in most cases not showing any positive effect on the ground for the locals. It seems symptomatic for western youth to go out into the "world" with so-called good intentions, an attitude which in itself may be laudable but with no deeper consideration for those people they want to "help". It is, in my opinion, more a sign of arrogance, ignorance and naivity showing very little consideration for the rights and the environment of foreign people. The "good doers" should think of staying at home and help the poeple in their own communities. Should they wish to travel the world, also as backpackers, super, but then let please them leave enough foreign currency behind for those poor hosts in their yurts, tents and log cabins they descend on.

Fatima, Edinburgh,

What this article doesnt say is that many gap year students only do it to put something good on their CV - its not altruism which drives many students, but the prospect of having something to talk about in job interviews. This is part of what they get for their money.

Tad, york, UK

Dear Sir,

I cannot agree more with your article and the advice of Judith Brodie.

I undertook a gap year project in Belize after I left school 7 years ago. It was organised through one of the better known companies following a presentation at my school. I paid to work 3 months at a conservation project in the jungle followed by 3 months at a marine reserve.

The entire project was a total shame with no work whatsoever organised for the volunteers, and no work being undertaken by the local people employed to be there. It was total waste of time and money. Fortunately our first placement was shortened to just 6 weeks as other volunteers were unhappy at their placement on a butterfly farm. We rotated early and soon learnt that the marine reserve, like our previous placement, had no work for us.

My friend and I left after 9 weeks and gained a much more valuable experience simply backpacking through Central America. This is not an issue of high expectations but simply a con.

Nicola Crane, Reading, Berkshire

I did my Gap year at almost 30.
I looked at the so called volunteer schemes and asked where all that money went, very little into the project it seemed, as you pay for flights and in some accomodation on top I didnt bother.
Its far nicer to stumble upon a notice asking for help with turtle conservation(at no cost to you) when in costa rica, or to sit on the shore of a lake in Guatemala swapping english for spanish with street vendors.
Romantic and haphazrd, maybe. I saw the sights I wanted to see and hopefully gave back to the local communities along the way.

Jaq, london, uk

I going on my gap year in feburary after leaving uni, and have decided along with my friend to backpack. i did geography at uni and idealy helping out with development projects in 3rd world countries sounds ideal. i decided against the idea as i did not feel that it would benefit me in anyway and visiting differnt countries and understanding and respecting other cultures i think is more worth while.

Therefore i agree with this article, as many people believe that helping out with these projects you will achieve more but i totally disagree, helping a developing nation is not as easy as building well and problems are generally not simple even though they may seem it. Going an expercening the country for what it is much more worth while and can be more rewarding.

Lily, London,

Work done by celebrities and others is often just PR stunts to make themselves feel good that they've done the odd bit of good whilst living decadent lifestyles.

Good on Judith Brodie, director of VSO UK, for saying that many of the schemes ''ultimately benefiting no one apart from the travel companies that organise them''.

The Third World does not need temporary one day wonders,
it needs organised permanent long term assistance in all directions.

K. Urban, London, UK

Surely with all these students anxious to give a hand it is not beyond the wit of VSO and others to plan something useful and beneficial for them to do ?

John Thorpe, Milano, Italy

First I must declare my interest, my wife and I run a working holidaymaker business called Visitoz.
Visitoz provides a full meet and greet at Brisbane Airport followed by an introduction to Australian agricultural techniques coupled with guaranteed farm work in the Outback. All jobs are properly paid at the union rate or better.
Visitoz is like having a cousin in Australia.
Dan
www.visitoz.org

Dan Burnet, Goomeri, Qld, Australia

As a former cadet VSO volunteer (1965-66 Sarawak) I strongly endorse VSO's sentiments. What I do not endorse, however, is VSO's decision to abandon its own cadet gap year scheme, which was the reason for founding VSO in the first place, in favour of graduate only volunteer schemes. Whether this is the fault of greedy beneficiary countries or VSO itself is unclear but gap year students and the countries which used to benefit from their youthful enthusiasm are the losers.

Guy Shirra, Sai Kung, Hong Kong

I'm glad someone has spoken up about tthis. Its become daylight robbery. I battled to find one project that my son could join without being fleeced and I did: it is helping build the Great Lake Baikal Trail. You cover your food costs and that's about all. Try it out.

Alice, Moscow,