We recognise the huge benefits that our participants can gain from a work placement overseas but at the same time understanding that local communites themselves will benefit from the work and presence of our participants. We encourage participants to mix with the locals by sending them to individual placements in sensible numbers ie usually in pairs or threes so that they gain a true insight in to local customs, traditions and ways of life.

We interview all participants before we accept them on to our programme - we need to understand applicants and their needs before we send them overseas. At this time we stress the importance of cultural sensitivity and environmental awareness.

On accepting a placement with us all participants enjoy a UK based pre departure briefing. Topics of health and hygiene, safety and security, flights and visas are covered in considerable detail at these briefings.

Adequate travel insurance is mandatory and its importance and relevance is stressed throughout our programme. We have negotiated an excellent travel insurance package with Global Travel Insurance with the needs of all our participants in mind.

All our participants benefit from the support of the local representative whilst on their placement. This person is employed by Changing Worlds on a part time basis to provide assistance to participants throughout their work placements and during their travel in country. This person co-ordinates a short orientation course on arrival to the destination and reinforces all of the points raised about cultural sensitivity and environmental awareness.