At home or away
HOST UK is a voluntary organisation with a network of UK residents who welcome adult international students to their homes at Christmas or for a weekend visit. The students get an insight into the British way of life and share their culture with their hosts.
What can I do as a volunteer?
As a volunteer host you would welcome an international student into your home - this could be over Christmas, for a weekend or even a day. As a ‘friend of the family’ your guest would take part in everyday life. If they’re visiting over Christmas, show them how your family celebrates the festive period – whether it’s Christmas dinner and all the trimmings or perhaps an outing or getting involved in local community activity.
How much time can I do it for?
Over Christmas you would invite them into your home for 3-4 days. A full weekend would typically be Friday evening to Sunday afternoon. You could also invite them for a day visit which could be for 4-6 hours depending on how long it takes the student to travel to your home (a day visit would be ideal for a student who is studying fairly close to where you live, for example).
How do I apply?
There’s lots more information on the HOST UK website and you can apply by emailing hosts@hostuk.org or ringing 020 7739 6292.
Vitalise is a national charity providing short breaks and other services for disabled and visually impaired people and their carers.
What can I do as a volunteer?
The charity is always looking for residential volunteers to help at their specially accessible residential centres across the UK. Around Christmas they’re particularly looking for volunteers at their Essex and Southport venues but they need volunteers across the country too and not just at Christmas!
How much time can I do it for?
As a residential volunteer you’ll help for a week or two at a time. The weeks usually run from Saturday to Saturday but the Christmas and New Year weeks run from Wednesday 21 to 28 December and Wednesday 28 December to 4 January respectively.
How do I apply?
If you already have a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check with Vitalise get in touch with the Vitalise volunteering team by emailing volunteer@vitalise.org.uk or by calling 0303 303 0148. If you’re new to Vitalise find out more and register on their website.