Have you got a way with children?

This project is set in the unique city of Hanoi, and it’s a place that’ll grab hold of you and never let go. Finally casting off the legacy of the Vietnam War and opening itself up to the world, it has managed to keep the spirit of the past alive and you’ll find it a captivating blend of old and new. Our partner project in the city, which supports children with special needs, will capture your heart too. You will join the dedicated staff helping children suffering from autism, Downs syndrome and Japanese encephalitis as well as the effects of Agent Orange, one of many damaging legacies of the War.

Project details:
The Phuc Tue caring centre was established in June 2001. There are now 3 centres around Hanoi that provide care and education for approx 50 children and young people (aged 2 to 22yrs old) who are suffering from the effects of agent orange, autism, down syndrome and Japanese encephalitis. The Centre`s aim is to look after these children and help to integrate them into normal society.

The Hope Centre was established in June 1997 and has 2 sites that provides care and education for approximately 70 children suffering from the effects of autism, brain traumas, down syndrome, epilepsy and also homeless children. The children range from the age of 3 to 17 years. The Centre aims to provide vocational training classes for these children and to integrate them into an ordinary social life.

Why volunteer at this project:
The project operates with limited funds and resources. They look for financial support from local sponsorship and international organizations and physical assistance from enthusiastic volunteers. This is where you come in! By helping to support their objectives in providing care and vocational programmes to reintegrate their young people back into society.

What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
Volunteers at this project should have a genuine love of children and young people, and an interest helping people with challenging conditions. Volunteers on this placement should have a good understanding of these conditions and be confident in working in this area. Although you do not require any special skills, any experience working with children or young people would be valuable. You will need to be confident, understanding and resilient to difficult conditions.

Your role as a volunteer:
Your role will mainly involve caring for the children, singing songs, playing games with the children, joining daily activities and exercise with the pupils as well as helping the centre to cook, clean and feed the children. Be prepared to have some fun activities with the children!

Where the project is based:
The projects are located in the districts of Hanoi, all within walking distance or a bus ride away from your accommodation. Hanoi is a pleasant city with a European feel, and you will find many attractive lakes, parks and boulevards to explore. Hanoi is a much more peaceful city than Ho Chi Minh; Vietnam's largest city, and is home to many interesting museums, temples and pagodas. You will be staying in a guest house in the lively Old Quarter of Hanoi, where you will have easy access to internet cafes, banks and shops.

Your accommodation will be in shared accommodation in a guesthouse. Meals are not included in the placement fee and can be bought locally, however if you do require, the accommodation do arrange for 3 meals a day at cost of US$25 per week, please arrange this with the in country team on arrival.

You will need to fly into Noiboi International airport in Hanoi on the advertised arrival date (airport code HAN). Please note that we can normally arrange for an airport pick up at an additional fee if you are arriving early, please contact the office to arrange.