Yes — and the online database of WorldWide Volunteering (www.wwv.org.uk) is a good place to start looking. When I called, there were more than 300,000 placements featured from more than 1,000 organisations in 214 countries.

The database is available for free use in public libraries, universities and schools (follow the “Wish to volunteer” link to find your nearest one); or, if you wish to search from home, you pay £10 for three separate searches during a four-week period.

Typically, placements include working with prisoners or children, teaching English as a foreign language, conservation and working with animals. During National Volunteers’ Week (June 1-7) database access is free.

The gap year websites www.gapyear.com and www.findagap.com also carry the details of many short and long-term volunteering placements, including humanitarian projects.

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