In most cases, your suitability to volunteer in any programme is based on a number of criteria:

- Is your application strong, well written, and does it demonstrate the value you could bring to the programme?

- If you are aged 16 or 17, and can get a Letter of Consent' signed by your parents or legal guardians, will the work you will be doing be both safe for you and effective for the people PWA supports? This is established through ongoing conversations and telephone interview between you and our team.

- If you are aged 18 or above, can you provide a Basic Criminal Disclosure demonstrating that you have no spent or outstanding convictions which would prevent you from working with vulnerable people/children?

- As every volunteer placement is individually designed to suit your skills and expertise, and to take account of the priorities of our programmes during the time and duration of your volunteer placement, can we establish that you will be confident and competent in completing the duties assigned to you? This will essentially be decided by Senior PWA Staff Members before your application is 'Accepted in Principle', meaning you will not yet have committed any funds towards flights, visas or other costs before a decision is made.

- Following a telephone or video interview, do we believe that you are a good fit for PWA's projects & team? This will require an assessment of your character, ethical views, and your expectations for your volunteer placement. As a guide, PWA tends to attract volunteers who have a serious interest in their work, are looking to develop their expertise, and can demonstrate cross-cultural understanding, empathy, patience and a good work ethic.

- Are you being realistic about what you can and cannot achieve during your volunteer placement and so are your expectations in-line with the reality of working in a challenging, developing context with few resources available, a challenging climate, and a relatively short period of time?

- Are you able to offer benefits beyond your personal skill set and expertise, such as material resources, raised funds, contacts, or expertise that might assist PWA in a broader sense beyond the limits of your volunteer programme?

If you have any questions or concerns about your eligibility for this programme, please get in contact with a member of our team and we will be happy to provide additional advice and guidance.

As a volunteer-led NGO, which focuses on collaborative partnerships to deliver all of our projects and programmes, international volunteers play a very important role in our work. Through the knowledge and expertise that they share with our team and our local communities, we deliver change from the bottom-up. To facilitate this process effectively, Partner West Africa has a dedicated internal department that manages and coordinates all of our international volunteer placements and programmes. This department is 'Volunteer West Africa' (or 'VWA').

VWA works within best-practice international development approaches to deliver projects and programmes in a manner which promotes local ownership, a local sense of achievement and local accountability. Most VWA volunteer programmes are therefore designed to share your knowledge, practical approaches or material resources, through educational or training based approaches, in a way which will help local people to improve their own circumstances. 

Many volunteers ask if they are able to raise funds or bring with them materials and resources to donate to the children and families we support. In most cases, however, we will work with you, during your application process, to determine if there are any useful items or resources you can bring with you that will directly improve the impact of your work or the outcomes of this programme. It might be that the programme already has a live fund raising appeal which you can help promote, or we might work with you, along with any other volunteers engaged on the programme, to identify resources that are unique to the work you will be doing during your time with us.

You will be staying with PWA staff and your fellow volunteers at the Volunteer West Africa Guest House: a purpose built, high-quality volunteer accommodation and office facility sitting within the attractive PWA walled compound and gardens and located in a quiet and undeveloped part of Kokrobite village in Ghana. The guest house is a one minute walk from the beautiful Kokrobite beach and the garden is full of flowers and tropical plants (perfect for relaxing quietly and talking through the day).

The VWA volunteer guest house, and the staff and team who live there, are consistently described by Past VWA Volunteers as being an absolute highlight of their experience in Ghana. The house is clean, well-equipped, well-run and has a fantastic and fun atmosphere year round. 

The bedrooms are dormitory style rooms with between 2 and 6 volunteers sharing each room. Rooms are nominated usually as gender specific. The beds are single-width bunk beds with good quality bedding, mattresses and mosquito netting provided.

The house bathrooms and en-suites have sinks, toilets, and showers that are fed by a large water storage tank on-site. There is a fully functioning kitchen, office area, and an outdoor dinning/meeting area. 

Water - Water is extremely precious! Water from the tap system at the guest house is tanked water which is transported by lorry from a local bore hole. This is a privilege: the majority of West African families have to fetch water from a well, using a bucket, each day. Volunteers and staff preserve water at every opportunity. There is, unsurprisingly given the climate, no hot water at the guest house.

Linen & Laundry - Bed linen is provided and will be laundered by VWA staff on a regular basis. Volunteers should bring their own towels and a very light sleeping bag or sleeping bag liner (for weekend excursions etc). You will be responsible for washing your own clothes and towels but, as laundry is undertaken in the typical local fashion by hand, VWA guest house staff are on-hand to give you some useful tips and pointers.

Electricity - The electricity sockets in Ghana are UK-style 230v 50hz standard 13amp 3-pin. The electricity supply can be unreliable, but is improving, and the guest house back-up generator is used only at certain times so as to conserve fuel. This requires that, as power can go off unexpectedly, you should charge mobile phones whenever possible and keep a torch handy. Because of surges in the national grid, you should also avoid charging any expensive or highly sensitive electrical equipment.

Internet - The guest house does have a limited over-air internet connection, and a 3G connection is available on your handset from most telephone networks, but the connection in Kokrobite can be a little slow. You can travel to internet cafes where the service is much better but, on a day-to-day basis, access is limited to basic email and social networking activities. Although you can buy a portable 3G dongle to plug in to your laptop, for around £10, which will give you your own dedicated personal internet connection!

Mobile Telephones, Tablets & Laptops - Mobile telephones are owned by most Ghanaians and phone calls are cheap and usually the connection is very reliable. Please bring a simple and robust 'network unlocked' mobile phone with you as you can buy a local SIM card and credit very cheaply. Laptops and tablets can be useful in the completion of your work but are brought at your own risk.

On-site Assistance - The house employs a Care Taker, Cook and House Manager who clean, maintain, and coordinate the house and grounds and prepare meals. They will always be happy to assist you however they can. 

VWA Volunteer Annabel: 'On VWA's Staff & Accommodation' 

If you apply for this programme, you will be living and working alongside local and international PWA staff and volunteers at the PWA compound in the village of Kokrobite, Ghana. Our Daycare and Nursery for Vulnerable Children is also located within this compound, along with our offices, staff accommodation and, of course, our beautiful volunteer guest house.

Kokrobite is a fishing village, located about 20 km (15 m) west of Accra, the capital city of Ghana. Kokrobite is known across West Africa for the diverse and popular range of beach bars and restaurants which come alive during holidays and at weekends to create one of West Africa's 'must-experience' music and dance destinations. Located on on a stretch of golden sandy beach, Kokrobite has a sleepy, creative and unique character which attracts visitors from across West Africa and beyond. As a VWA volunteer, you are encouraged to make the most of your time in Kokrobite and to experience the full array of local entertainment, food and culture.

As well as living and working within Kokrobite, PWA works with a number of other local communities that are usually no further than 10 km (6 m) from the VWA compound. Depending on the duties and responsibilities of your individual volunteer placement, your time will usually be split between working within the PWA compound, working within Kokrobite village, and/or travelling with PWA team members and other volunteers to work within the other local communities which PWA supports. 

At times you may also be required to travel in to the capital city, Accra, or to other communities or locations as required to complete your duties effectively.

Although Ghana has been officially ranked as one of the freest, fairest and safest countries in Africa, Volunteer West Africa takes the safety and security of its staff, partners and volunteers very seriously. The risk assessment of our premises, the local context and our programmes and projects is over-seen by senior staff who are certified in security management for NGOs. All VWA safety and security policies and procedures are also overseen by a qualified and experienced VWA Operational Director who lives and works in Ghana on a permanent basis. To date, no VWA volunteer has been the victim of any serious crime, injury or loss during their volunteer placement.

All VWA volunteers will receive safety and security information prior to arriving in Africa as well as a comprehensive safety and security induction when they arrive at the VWA compound.

The VWA team are happy to discuss all aspects of safety and security with you before you apply. We also recommend that you speak with your Foreign Office (or equivalent) to take any advice or guidance regarding your travel to Ghana.

VWA Volunteer Teresa: 'On VWA Safety and Security'

"There is a good feeling of safety and security within the Volunteer West Africa volunteer house and also in the local Ghanaian communities as a whole.

During preparation for the trip, many discussions take place between VWA and all those involved with the trip. Safety plays a large part in the organisation of the trip and this includes a suitable itinerary, a range of advice on fine detail such as appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, and a comprehensive safety induction talk is given on arrival (and covers, safety, hygiene, fire evacuation procedures and the use of electrical equipment, security and even environmental issues such as water usage).

The VWA volunteer guest house is situated in a gated, secure complex and has a strong feeling of security, with security staff and four barking dogs to deter unwanted visitors. Windows are barred and mosquito nets are in place on each window for protection against mosquitos. This is particularly necessary during the rainy season from July and later in the year.  In addition, rooms are regularly sprayed with mosquito repellent and mosquito nets are hung over each bed.

A key for each bedroom is kept in a coded security box which must be used each time the room is left empty. Secure lockers are available in bedrooms for additional security of personal items.

When visiting local areas, such as the beach or local shops, at least one member of VWA staff accompany the group if requested or required. Swimming in the sea would not be advisable for unconfident swimmers at certain times, the current can be strong, so plenty of information with regard to sea conditions is provided.

"Lilly" the VWA Land Rover used to transport the group to areas outside the local area is very well-equipped, and serviced and maintained regularly to ensure it is roadworthy to an acceptable standard. When using local taxi's VWA provide plenty of advice to help volunteers ensure the vehicles are of a good standard and safe.

During my time at VWA we have been looked after very well, and felt safe and secure at all times, whilst staying in the house and visiting Ghana."

Absolutely, yes! As long as you have completed your duties & responsibilities, the many joys of Ghana await:

The famous Big Milly's Backyard, a back-packer style beach bar and resort and a local hang out for volunteers from all over West Africa, is located within walking distance of the VWA guest house. VWA volunteers regularly visit Big Milly's to enjoy the great food, African dance performances, and the opportunity to unwind and meet like-minded travellers over a cold beer or cocktail at the bar. 

Next door to Big Millys is Bahdoosh, a beer bar, hostel and restaurant and across the street is Kokrobite Garden (an Italian restaurant with great pizza!). Kokrobite Garden, in particular, is a favourite with VWA team members as the delicious menu is served in a beautiful and peaceful tropical garden by friendly staff. A perfect place to unwind after a tough day.

Kokrobite is a traditional fishing community but the beach is often 'borrowed' by visitors from all over Ghana including families enjoying the weekend or groups of friends who have come to eat, drink and enjoy each other's company. 

It is simple and relatively cheap to travel from Kokrobite to the capital City, Accra or to closer towns or areas where you can find internet cafes, Shopping Malls, ATMs, restaurants and bars, and supermarkets that sell most western goods. In Accra you can wonder the bustling traditional markets, visit the theatres, national monuments and museums, or simply sit and people watch.

For travel and sightseeing that is further afield it is possible - if you have a free day or two - to travel to: the Cape Coast Castle (historically one of Africa's most prolific slave-trading sites which now offers insightful historic tours); the Volta Region (a breathtaking collection of lakes and wetlands - including Lake Volta; the worlds largest artificial lake by surface area - with tours and activities a plenty!); or Kumasi (Ghana's second city and a rich and vibrant centre for traditional Ashanti and West African tribal culture).

Ghana is an ethnically diverse country with a mixture of traditional and contemporary cuisine, arts, dialects and clothing. From traditional spicy 'Red Red' bean stew to a wood smoked Four Seasons pizza and from traditional hand woven Kente Cloth robes to the latest football shirts, old meets new and all are welcome.

Ghanaians pride themselves on being friendly and welcoming and they are renowned throughout Africa for being one of the warmest and most engaging of all African peoples. In most cases, the music is loud, the welcome is warm, and the community and extended family are at the centre of most social structures.

Ghana is a religious country. Traditional beliefs, Christian ideologies and Muslim values combine with some evangelistic views to create a unique mix of churches and places of worship. Almost all Ghanians do believe in a god and do integrate their faith in to their daily life. The major religion is Christianity. 

Many Ghanaians celebrate their religion on a Sunday by attending church and meeting and visiting friends, family and neighbors. Volunteers, visitors or people of different faiths are welcomed and encouraged to attend.

VWA Volunteer Sherrie: 'On Local Culture'

"Having stayed in Ghana for a short amount of time (I definitely advice you stay for as long as possible!), I learnt very quickly from VWA that with any culture, in any country, there are rules of etiquette which it is courteous and respectful to follow.

Before arriving, I was lucky to have been given an insight of what it would be like and what to expect from the VWA team and then again on arrival by a senior VWA staff member, and then continuous tips and advice were provided by the rest of the Volunteer West Africa team throughout my stay.

The culture differs from the UK greatly in how Ghana has the reputation as one of the friendliest countries within West Africa and there is a justified reason for that. Greetings in Ghana are much more structured and important and this is especially so in smaller towns and villages. The elderly people are treated with much more respect. It is also considered rude to ask questions, such as 'Where is the rest room?', without first exchanging a greeting. It is considered polite to say 'hello' to anyone you may pass along the way. It's also customary to visit the chief of any village where you intend to stay or sight-see, which we did many times with VWA. Whereas in the UK, people tend not to communicate or even to avoid one-another!

One thing I noticed is that in Ghana, time is not a strict concept as where in the UK, people are constantly evolving around time and I can see that this is a reason which contributes to the friendlier atmosphere seen in Ghana because people take the time to enjoy life, spend time with friends and family, and visit places.

One thing I expected - but not quite as much as I received - was the reaction of young children... smiling, waving, shouting 'Obruni' (which is a warm greeting for a white person) and them touching my skin with great curiosity.

I could only advise people visiting for the first time to take things light-heartedly and to laugh and smile at situations which you might consider a bit absurd and when being asked questions, to always greet someone and ask how they are and once they have answered and returned the greeting, you can then ask them a question, a favour, begin bargaining or enquire about the price of something. 

Greetings are the first and foremost single part of etiquette to learn in Ghana, especially for someone like myself who might not have found it intuitive to greet their waiter/waitress before asking something. 

First time visitors and those with white skin may be surprised at the amount of attention they attract which ranges from every passing taxi in Accra beeping their horn at you to mobs of children waving exuberantly. 

Ghana is an incredibly welcoming country and although you may encounter people who treat Westerners like a walking ATM, they are the exception, definately not the rule."

As with many ex-colonies in Africa, the official language of Ghana is English. 

However, there are a number of regional dialects and nine languages have the status of government-sponsored languages: 

Akan, Ewe, Dagomba (Dagbani), Dangme, Dagaare, Ga, Nzema, Gonja, and Kasem. Akan has two literary dialects, Twi and Fante.

The region that the Volunteer West Africa guest house is located is a region that speaks Ga and Twi. However, most people do speak English so, if English is your first language, communication will be relatively straight forward for you. You are encouraged to try and learn some basic Ga or Twi before you travel to Ghana, to demonstrate an interest and to be polite and respectful to the local people, but VWA will provide you with information on key phrases and expressions that will make your communication more effective throughout your stay.

Breakfast and dinner will be provided at the VWA guest house and volunteers can buy or prepare their own lunch. 

The guest house provides a set menu which combines local Ghanian dishes with continental dishes. Local food is simple, often spicy and consists mainly of fresh fruit, bread, eggs, and root vegetables or starchy sour doughs served with rice, stews, or soup. Fish, chicken and goat meat dishes are widely available locally but are not regularly served at the VWA guest house. Continental foods, such as pizza, pasta, sandwiches, potato chips, and sweet snacks, are widely available in Ghana. Dairy products, like cheese and fresh milk, are available locally but are expensive.

Safe drinking water, tea and coffee are supplied throughout your stay by Volunteer West Africa and are served with powdered milk. In Ghana, clean drinking water is usually supplied in small plastic sealed bags which you bite the corner off to drink from. Perfecting the method takes a little practice but the water is perfectly safe, widely available and very low cost (about £0.05p per 500ml). The plastic bags can easily be recycled afterwards which heavily reduces the environmental burden on the region.

The guest house has a cook who will prepare dinner each day - apart from Sundays which is 'Feed yourself Day' when the volunteers take turns to cook! - but you are free to buy and prepare your own meals at anytime if you prefer. Depending on the number of volunteers at the time, you may be asked to assist in preparing for meal times or cleaning up afterwards. There are also plenty of opportunities for a group night out at one of the many local restaurants or 'chop bars'.

VWA Volunteer Annie: 'On Food... nom nom nom'

"Volunteer West Africa provides two meals a day plus plenty of snacks and water for day trips. For breakfast, we received a range of cereals, fruits and spreads. An important part of experiencing a new culture is eating the cuisine. We were able to try traditional Ghanaian foods both in and out of the VWA guest house. The VWA menu included yam and garden egg stew, chicken and Jollof rice, and eto with salad as well as Western dishes like spaghetti bolognese, and macaroni cheese. A particular favourite of mine was plantain and bean sauce. Plantain is like a savoury banana. It is also made into crisps which were a perfect snack for when we were travelling!

Mary and Sarah, the VWA cooks, cooked our meals at the volunteer guest house. Their cooking was so delicious, so much so, many of us would regularly go back for seconds. They catered for everyone's needs. For example, they provided meat options and vegetarian options, and they adapted the recipes for those who had allergies or didn't like a certain ingredient. Some nights we also had dessert. Matt, VWA's Director, prepared baked pineapple in cinnamon with ice cream which was heavenly! Also, during some of the evenings, we explored the local area which included beach bars and restaurants like Big Millie's and Dizzy Lizzie's. They provided a range of Ghanaian and Western dishes and they served refreshing drinks like fresh fruit juices and coconut milk 

Furthermore, in Ghana you are never far from food. Along the streets, there are lots of stalls selling various snacks and meats in particular. However, during our stay we had to be careful about consuming new foods because we couldn't ensure that these foods were cooked sanitarily. Likewise, we had to take a similar approach to the Ghanaian food markets. These are sectioned into different food types. So, you would see multiple stalls of tomatoes followed by endless bags of spices - I love that you are constantly exposed to an array of colours and smells across the markets."

Ghana is located close to the equator in the centre of the tropics. Between 26 and 32 degrees centigrade is the norm year round although it often feels much hotter due to the humidity. 

The VWA guest house has ceiling fans in all of the bedrooms.

There is some seasonal variation in Ghana but the seasons are relatively minimal in temprature (a few degrees between winter and summer, for example). There is the dryer season from November to March, when the weather is less humid, the skies are clearer, the sun is hotter, and the wind of the Harmattan (the wind drawn down from the Sahara desert which contain dry dust and sand) takes effect. There are wetter seasons around April, June and August/September, where the skies are more cloudy, the air feel sthicker, and sudden, heavy down-pours, that pass quite quickly, are common-place.

Whatever time of year you come, you will to be prepared to be sweaty during the day, especially when you are active. You can experience a nice breeze sitting out in the guest house garden or relaxing in the shade but, when you are out and about, being sweaty is nothing to be embarrassed or worried about. The locals sweat just as much as you will!

VWA Volunteer Kerrie: 'On the Climate & Weather in Ghana'

"Travelling from England, I had established that the climate here in Ghana is different but very beautiful. Ghana is in close proximity to the equator, therefore giving the country a typical tropical climate. Due to the combination of little rainfall and high temperatures, the ground can be dry and dusty too. For the duration of my stay, the daytime temperature fluctuated around 30 degrees but temperatures during the night dropped by a few degrees. Despite this, the temperature is reasonably consistent throughout the year. 

Coming from a country with a varied but often cold climate, a little time to acclimatise was expected, although I personally found that adapting to the temperature was a quick process, especially with the helpful facilities provided by Volunteer West Africa. For example, in each room there was at least one fan and all vehicles used for travelling were well equipped with air conditioning. In addition to this, the location of the Volunteer West Africa accommodation is a 5 minute walk from the beach, which also supplies a cool and light windy breeze.

I visited Ghana during the summer season, also known as the dry season, where mosquitos tend to be in high numbers, although this is a problem that I did not encounter due to VWA's stringent precautions: All bedrooms at the VWA guest house have well-fitted and large mosquito nets which enabled trouble-free sleeps. Mosquito repellent is also highly recommended for the Ghanaian climate but as previously mentioned, mosquitos were not a major problem despite it being summer in Ghana. As expected, temperatures are slightly hotter during the dry season but the staff at VWA always ensured there was an infinite amount of safe, cool drinking water; likewise, there was plenty of opportunities to keep hydrated in the climate when out and about.

Overall, the climate in Ghana is very warm but at the same time, it is breath-taking. There are times whereby it can feel particularly hot but acclimatising will help, similarly the facilities provided at VWA are exceptionally great when adapting to the climate too."

Unlike volunteer agencies or gap year travel organisations, VWA is a fully operational and legally registered not-for-profit charity. We do not take a cut or commission from any of the money that volunteers pay or donate.

Your volunteer project work with VWA is free. However, you must pay a Reservation Fee, to cover the cost of reserving your place and processing your application, and a Food and Accommodation Fee, to ensure that the money and resources donated to VWA for charitable use are not diverted to pay for the cost of hosting and supporting you during your volunteer placement.

These fees are as follows:

VWA Volunteer Sarah: 'On VWA's Value for Money'

"The cost of the main programme (in my case £250); which includes an educational excursion, transport for work purposes and food/accommodation is excellent value for money at Volunteer West Africa! The all encompassing way in which this is funded, eases the day to day schedule as minimises the amount of cash exchanging hands. This allows for a greater focus on the day to day activities and work rather than needing to worry about carrying sums of cash or keeping track of expenditure.

I also fund-raised to sponsor a child at the VWA Daycare & Nursery Centre, for £350 for one year, which is clearly an important part of your opportunity as a volunteer given the nature of the programmes VWA runs and the fact that it is such a reasonable sum to provide a child with all the excellent services that VWA provides.... it would also be interesting to know the plans and costs for short/long term projects within the nursery. But that said, what is abundantly clear, is that the donations, both monetary and resources, go directly to those in need, which is clearly one of the biggest values VWA offers.

All in all, when you consider the additions of the flight, visa/vaccinations and spending money, the total cost of the package is excellent. VWA provides a very good alternative to other volunteer programmes, who, often ask for significantly greater sums and offer a less individually tailored programme and personal service. The education and experience the programme as a whole provides to both the volunteers and recipients of the funding is without question excellent value for money."

In addition, there are a number of other costs you will need to consider and plan-for before deciding to make your volunteer application. These include:

• Immunisations and inoculations - Costs will vary based on your medical history;
• Entry Visa in to Ghana - Approximately £60 GBP (placements longer than 2 months but shorter than 3 months will require a visa extension - costing c. £10 GBP - this is required even if you have a 3 month visa as visas are validated for 60 days at immigration on arrival; placements longer than 3 months will require Ghanaian Work Permits & Non-Citizen ID Cards - issued in Ghana - costing c. £350 GBP);
• Malaria prevention medicine for the duration of your placement - Costs will vary;
• Your flight, or travel, to/from Ghana - Costs will vary depending on your location, airline, and the season;
• Travel Insurance - Costs will vary based on the level of cover;
• Security/Criminal background check - Approximately £20 GBP (in the UK);
• Spending money: You will need to fund your lunch on a daily basis, any snacks or soft drinks, any daily transportation, and any socialising you do in your spare time. Volunteer West Africa recommends a maximum of around £3 GBP per day.

While volunteering with VWA, your placement is technically free, although we do expect you to cover the cost to our charity of your food & accomodation (this is so as our donors & supporters are not expected to pay for maintaining the volunteer guest house). However, you will still have access to one of the volunteering sector's leading volunteer support packages. This will include:

1. A detailed volunteer application process through which we will check your suitability to work with VWA and through which we will work with you to design a unique volunteer placement that best suits your individual skills and interests;
2. After your application is accepted, you will have access to an online introduction pack that will outline important information regarding planning your visit and volunteer placement, health, security, safety, and how you can generally best prepare for your experience;
3. Collection by a senior Volunteer West Africa team member from the airport, or your local hotel, when you arrive in Africa to begin your placement;
4. Healthy and hygienic African or Continental breakfast and dinner for the duration of your volunteer placement;
5. Secure, clean and comfortable accommodation, alongside other PWA staff and volunteers, at the VWA guest house in Kokrobite, for the duration of your volunteer placement;
6. 3 to 5 days of structured induction and orientation from the Volunteer Manager and/or other senior team members. To include, where appropriate: an introduction to the organisation and other team members; a tour of the local community and essential amenities; cultural and safety related training; an opportunity to adjust to the context and climate before your begin your work; a general question and answer session to cover any concerns or queries you might have; and a follow up review after your first week in Africa;
7. Wherever possible, a one-to-one hand over with a volunteer who is or has worked on this programme;
8. 24-hour a day access to senior Volunteer West Africa team members and 24-hour a day 'live-in' support from a VWA Volunteer and Project Manager;
9. Regular team briefings, progress meetings, and information updates during your stay;
10. An end of placement debrief and assessment of your experience;
11. If requested, once you have returned home, one of our team will also contact you to see how you are adjusting and if we can offer you any further support.

There are many reasons that people choose to offer their time and expertise as a volunteer. For some, volunteering is simply a way of helping those in need. For others, volunteering is a way to travel the world or develop professional or academic experience whilst also doing something rewarding. But there is one key principle of VWA which often determines whether a volunteer will join our organisation or not: VWA is primarily a place for volunteers to secure well structured, NGO and development work experience. For volunteers interested in generic volunteer packages, with a greater focus on travel & entertainment, there are a number of alternative organisations to chose from. But if you are looking for relevant, rewarding, practical experience working in a development setting, VWA is difficult to beat.

However, ensuring that you also find the highest level of enjoyment in your experience is one of the greatest ways for Volunteer West Africa to deliver long-term positive change. If your experience with VWA is a good one, we are certain that when you finish your volunteer placement with us you will still continue to benefit the communities and people that we serve...

From inspiring others by sharing your stories and experiences of the people and projects you have worked on; to sustaining long-term relationships with the members of the community your volunteering placement has introduced you to; to acting as an ambassador or fundraiser for the aims and objectives of vulnerable people in future, if you find great reward in your experience with us then we hope we will have found an ally for life in you. For that reason, we take our responsibility towards your experience with us very seriously. 

Your volunteer placement with Volunteer West Africa can be the beginning of a life time of travel, experience, learning, cultural awareness, philanthropy, or professional international development work. But an understanding of the many different peoples, cultures and complexities that define international development is the key to delivering any and all positive change. And your placement with VWA can provide you with genuine and hands-on experience of working in your chosen technical discipline in a challenging, developing context.

To read what past VWA volunteers say about their experience with VWA, please view our What Past VWA Volunteers Say Page.

VWA Volunteer Ellen: 'On VWA's Safety and Security'

"When our group of volunteers arrived at the VWA guesthouse we were greeted by the staff who were very welcoming and seemed pleased to meet us despite the fact it was ridiculously early in the morning! The welcoming and positive nature of the staff never fails to get a low mood off the ground. 

We were settled quickly so that we could be prepared and refreshed for our first full day. Much of the activities we undertook would not have been even half as enjoyable as they were without the support of all the VWA staff members who provided us with knowledgeable company and guiding hands throughout our stay. Inusah's - the VWA Volunteer Manager - funny and high spirited company could not be out weighed by how comforting and essential his endless local knowledge is. Chris, better known as 'Big Chris', definitely provided a strong feeling of safety on our adventures out of the VWA guest house and infinitely interesting conversations. Despite feeling very safe in Ghana anyway the added support of Big Chris was most definitely a comfort. And the incredibly talented Mary and Sarah were responsible for the stunningly amazing food we experienced on our visit. 

On one of our first nights in Ghana Sarah, who being the same or a similar age to most of us became quite close to the group, was kind enough to teach us some of her unbelievably amazing traditional Ghanaian dancing. Although I'm not convinced we were very good it was so much fun to dance with her and exchange moves! Mary's amazing cooking is always matched with a friendly good morning, a good chat and some fabulous hairdressing skills. Having Mama Sandy around was also really wonderful. Having been involved with arranging our visit from the start it was lovely to have a familiar face around. There were also many other staff members at the guesthouse frequently who were happy to welcome you and with a smile and a friendly hello, including Kofi, the caretaker, who is able to fix just about anything! Although because of the hours he works we did not see Matt - the VWA Director - as much as we would have liked, but it is very clear the hard work he provides and how passionate he is about his job is what drives VWA forward. This passion and dedication for his job is inspiring. All the VWA staff members have been incredible at supporting and helping me over come some of my general anxieties in life.

Overall this visit to Ghana has been the most amazing, inspiring and life changing experience of my life, which has taught and instilled values in me that I hope to retain for the rest of my life. The VWA staff members have played a massive part in this and making my visit so truly enjoyable. Without the VWA staff none of this visit would have been possible and I can only thank them for this life changing experience. I can't wait to return!"