Platform2 was a programme established to provide young people from the UK with the opportunity to volunteer overseas with a view to gaining a greater awareness and understanding of global development issues whilst contributing to a worthwhile volunteer project. The programme was specifically aimed at those people who wouldn’t ordinarily have the opportunity to participate in this type of experience. Platform2 was funded by Ukaid from the Department for International Development and was operated by BUNAC and Christian Aid.

During the three year term of the programme (2008 – 2011) almost 2000 18 to 25 year olds visited developing countries and became involved in locally run volunteer projects. Our participants have returned and are now helping to express the difficulties that are faced by some of these countries and to promote ways in which we can help.

The programme was considered an outstanding success and BUNAC was honored to be involved in this government funded programme. We extend our thanks to all those who contributed including volunteers, in-country partners, communities and our consortium partner, Christian Aid.

If you would like to find out more about the ongoing initiatives that returning volunteers are now undertaking please visit: www.myplatform2.com

BUNAC continues to send volunteers to many of the Platform2 destinations. If you would like to know how you can volunteer abroad with BUNAC please visit the volunteer pages of our website: www.bunac.org.uk/volunteer

Callum Kennedy, Director of BUNAC said:

"BUNAC is proud of its role in the extremely successful DFID Platform2 youth volunteering venture. Volunteering in a developing country shouldn't be the preserve only of those who can, literally, afford to give up their time to do it. Creating and sustaining productive projects on a rolling group basis for 2,000 young people over a three year period was a massive challenge for all involved in the UK and abroad. The results of the Platform2 initiative show that young adults from all walks of life and from all backgrounds can contribute to international development and learn from the volunteering experience."

For further information about Platform2, visit the programme website. As the application deadline to take part in the final Platform2 departure has now passed, you might like to consider some of BUNAC's other volunteer abroad schemes.