Getting started and orientation

Building a relationship with your partner organisation and in-country team is critical.

• Your in-country team will invite you to join an orientation program, which might include language lessons.
• Your partner organisation will provide you with adequate work resources to get the job done.

Safety and security

• Your in-country team will work with you to complete a Personal Security Plan and Accommodation Security Plan.

Monitoring, evaluation and learning

• Prepare an initial Assignment Plan with your partner organisation to outline objectives and activities.
• Conduct a mid-year review for assignments of 11 months or longer.
• Conduct an End of Assignment Evaluation at the end of your assignment.

Learning and support

In addition to your orientation, you have access to information and online resources as well as a Learning Portal for additional learning and collaboration opportunities.

Staying connected

There are a range of professional and personal development opportunities, and chances to network with other volunteers and partner organisations.

Depending on the duration of your assignment, you may have the opportunity to participate in:

• catch ups hosted by your in-country team (where COVID restrictions permit)
• online webinars
• Communities of Practice discussion forums

Well-being and personal safety

In-country volunteers have access to a range of support while on assignment, including

• Support from your in-country team
• Health care services and insurance cover
• Psychological support services
• You will also be supported to maintain your own personal safety with training and by completing self-care plans.

Travel and leave

• In-country volunteers will have opportunities to take leave and may wish to travel. Volunteers are entitled to a minimum of four weeks (20 working days) annual leave per year, accrued on a pro rata basis.
• You must request approval from your partner organisation and consult with the in-country team when planning leave. The partner organisation is within its rights to request changes to the timing and duration of leave in accordance with its own organisational priorities.
• Leave and travel requests are submitted to and approved by your in-country team.