Smiles a plenty await
you in Ghana
Provide much needed support & care to children in Busua
-
Duration
1-24 weeks -
Accompanied age
5+ -
Minimum age
17+ -
Start dates
1st & 3rd Saturday -
From
£160
-
Duration
1-24 weeks -
Accompanied age
5+ -
Minimum age
17+ -
Start dates
1st & 3rd Saturday -
From
£160
Ghana childcare volunteers
Quicklinks
Are you ready to take on a new experience where you can explore the real Africa, make lots of new friends and make a real difference to the lives of underprivileged children? Your time and effort at nurseries and kindergartens is vital and you will provide an important contribution to the children’s daily lives.
As a volunteer you will become a big brother or sister to the children, working alongside local staff to assist with teaching and caring for the children that attend everyday. You will be involved with the operational running of the day care centre where you can give extra support and attention as well as one-to-one time that so many children are deprived of.
You’re sure to feel right at home in this wonderful country, where you will experience a true Ghanain welcome and be fully integrated into a friendly and hospitable culture. This exciting and rewarding programme is perfect for someone with a big heart and who has the desire to do something meaningful with their time abroad.
Background to the childcare programme
Ghana is often referred to as the friendliest country in Africa and this is no more noticeable than in the smiling children! You will always find them dancing and singing in the street and running over to welcome you.
In 2007 the government of Ghana introduced two years of compulsory kindergarten education along with many other legislations. Although this saw enrolment levels hugely increase and is a great step in the right direction, this in itself brought on many problems. On average there are now 52 children per class, meaning the facilities and care provided continue to suffer and in some circumstances are actually getting worse.
Although there are a growing number of kindergartens in Ghana, they are all full to bursting point. The children that are lucky enough to attend, are greeted with severe overcrowding, no educational resources or games and no real support or care being provided. The few staff that are present have generally had no formal training and children are left to their own devices for the most part of the day.
The main focus of kindergartens is not only to provide care and support, but to also provide the educational foundations to prepare the children for later life. Despite English being the national language of Ghana, many communities in the more remote and rural areas are unable to speak or read it. The little education that is currently provided is taught by rote memorisation. This style of teaching gets the children to repeat words without actually understanding their meaning and does little to promote independent thought and self-confidence - just enough to pass exams.
By introducing you and other volunteers from around the world, we hope to provide vital extra help to the staff and to ensure the children all get the care and attention they so desperately need and want. Not only this, but a new style of teaching and engagement will boost their confidence and the energy and creativity that you bring will help them understand the basic concepts of English - ensuring they have the best chance for their future.
Where will I be volunteering?
The childcare programme aims to assist and help kindergartens and nurseries in and around Busua - where our volunteer accommodation is located. Our childcare volunteers are primarily based at Busua Nursery School and Future Leaders Academy, but during busier times you may also be placed at one or two other centres around the village. You are more than welcome to split your time between several kindergartens, but we do ask that you commit at least one week per placement.
Busua Nursery School - The government run nursery school was established just over 10 years ago (in-line with the 2007 government legislation) and is the only free to attend nursery for under 5's in the area. Located next to the primary school, you will be able to spend your days playing with the children outside while getting to enjoy the sunshine. Every day over 50 children aged between 1 and 5 years old make their way to the centre, with only one teacher in place to try and look after and teach them - an impossible task!
Future Leaders Academy - Due to the lack of government facilities in the area, Future Leaders was setup in 2016 to try and take some of the burden away from the overcrowded Busua Nursery School. Although it is regarded as a private organisation, which children have to pay a small fee to attend, The Mighty Roar, our local team and other volunteers have sponsored many of the children to attend. Not only does this ensure they get some form of education, but it also means their parents can do their best to work and earn some much needed money.
Future Leaders has over 200 children attend every day and although you will be primarily based within the youngest class (children aged between 1 and 5 years old), you are more than welcome to assist across the whole centre.
What is my role?
You will play a huge role in being an extra pair of hands and eyes to help provide care to children who need it most on any given day. You’ll be involved in a variety of activities, where your primary role will be a carer, ensuring all of the children get the attention they deserve. On top of this, you will be playing games and sports outside, helping with feeding the children, tidying and cleaning the class and teaching basic English like the alphabet, colours, animal names etc...
You will be instrumental in keeping the children engaged and happy, where you will join in with games and other fun activities and hopefully introduce some of your own new ideas along the way. You can be sure that the children and community will be extremely grateful for having someone there to support and care for them.
During your free time we would recommend planning and creating some exciting and engaging lessons or games. By introducing some structure throughout the day, you will be able to keep more control and ensure the children are enjoying their time. We encourage you to get as involved as possible by helping with all of the day-to-day activities, where you will find that you will get to know many of the children and their routines - making your time here even more special!
At times you may find that you are left in charge of the classroom, with the teachers being absent for part of the day - a common occurence across Ghana, with or without volunteers. This may seem daunting at first, but with the support of other volunteers and our local team, as well the planned lessons you have created, this will be your time to shine!
What will a typical day look like?
You will typically be volunteering at the kindergarten Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm, although you are more than welcome to stay later if preferred. Every day will be different, but as you get to know the children and their routines, as well as develop special relationships with them, you will soon reap the rewards and benefits.
If you are volunteering at the Busua Nursery School, then you will make the short walk down the hill (2 minutes) with other volunteers and more than likely children who are waiting for you. Future Leaders Academy is located on the outskirts of the village and involves a 5 minute drive. This will be arranged for you, but the costs are not included within the programme fee (expect to budget around £2 / $3 per day).
After a quick tidy up of the class, you will be ready to welcome the children - who all make their own way, no matter their age! You will then follow the basic structure of the kindergarten for the rest of the day, teaching simple English, assisting with meal times and playing outside during breaks.
Once the kindergartens have finished for the day (around 2:30pm), all volunteers (across all programmes) always meet at the beach, where there are plenty of things for everyone to see and do.
Where will I be staying?
Ghana is one of the most secure and friendly destinations where you can relax, get to know the locals and explore this beautiful country at your leisure. You will be staying within our volunteer accommodation that is nestled up in the hills overlooking the small village of Busua. Offering far-reaching views out across the sea and surrounded by palm trees, this quiet spot is the perfect place to call home.
The small village community of Busua (where everyone knows everyone) will welcome you with open arms and you will be made to feel like a local from day one. Most of your time will be spent on the picturesque beach, that offers golden white sands with palm trees lined along the whole bay. An up and coming tourist hotspot for surfers, you will be able to cool down in the blue waters of the Atlantic and even try your hand at surfing. During your free time you can laze in one of the many hammocks, relax in one of the several beach bars and restaurants, join in with a game of football with the children, play drums around the bonfire or go for a swim at the local hotel.
Other things to consider
Top returning destination - Ghana is our top destination for volunteers returning to help again in the future. We believe this is due to the amazing village of Busua and the local community that live there. Situated on the most stunning beach, the community will ensure you feel at home from day one. On top of this, the feedback provided by volunteers suggests that Ghana offers some of the most rewarding and worthwhile volunteer projects, where you can make a real positive difference.
Helping on multiple projects - Whilst in Ghana, you will also have the opportunity to get involved with our teaching (no additional cost) and medical (small extra cost) programmes, which are located in the same village.
Cultural differences - It is important for volunteers to join our programmes in Ghana with an open mind and understanding of the differences in culture. The methods of discipline used often differ greatly from what you may be used to back at home and although we do not condone the mistreatment of children, physical discipline does occur.
Resources and donations - Resources can be very limited on our programmes in Ghana and we would really appreciate any additional support that can be provided. It would be amazing if you could bring any materials associated with your project, including pens, paper, colouring books, clothes and anything else you think will aid your time on the programme.
Weekends and free time - You will have every weekend off from volunteering and this is the perfect time to explore everything this beautiful country has to offer. You are more than welcome to simply relax around the accommodation and enjoy the nearby beaches, but most volunteers will use this time to travel and see the country. Further down this page you will come across many suggestions and ideas on where you could go. Alternatively, if you are looking to see as much of the country as possible during this time, travel with other volunteers and be accompanied by one of our local team members, then you may be interested in one or more of the organised weekend trips we run.
Further Information

Ghana Childcare
I signed up for the childcare programme in Busua Ghana for two weeks and it was the best experience of my life! Getting involved really helped me to meet some amazing new people with similar values to me and has given me an experience I will never forget.
Lottie NortonJanuary 2025
Spending my summer in Ghana
I signed up solo to spend six weeks volunteering in the schools in Ghana whilst on a gap year. There wasn’t a dull moment, I can definitely see myself returning, and I would urge anyone thinking about volunteering with TMR Ghana to go for it - you will not regret it!
Gracie LinnDecember 2024
The best time of my life in Ghana
I participated in both the childcare and medical programme in Busua, Ghana over a span of 2 weeks in 2024. It was honestly the best time of my life and I would highly recommend everyone travel to Ghana and volunteer.
Isla CarterJune 2024
Fab experience
Fab experience. Will be going volunteering again with the mighty roar in a few months.
Lydia PartingtonMarch 2024
Wonderful Ghana Childcare experience
I had such a good time in Ghana doing the childcare/teaching course. Dinah was so kind and supportive and had the most wonderful time living in Busua and I hope
to go back very soon!!
Menzies NorwichFebruary 2024
Ghana
I’ve just come back from volunteering in Ghana for 6 weeks on the childcare program, it was the best 6 weeks of my life! The local team were amazing. Dinah, Abigail, Emanuel and francis were all great and made me feel so welcome. The local village is also super welcoming and i felt so safe duri... Read More
Tilly DumbletonFebruary 2024
Ghana
I’ve just come back from volunteering in Ghana for 6 weeks on the childcare program, it was the best 6 weeks of my life! The local team were amazing. Dinah, Abigail, Emanuel and francis were all great and made me feel so welcome. The local village is also super welcoming and i felt so safe during my stay. I couldn’t recommend doing this enough, i will definitely be returning. The children in the local school are the sweetest and are so happy when you arrive, it really is a great experience
Tilly DumbletonFebruary 2024
Amazing experience
I loved everything and would recommend it to anyone. I had a great time, learned a lot, met lots of new people, had an amazing experience and would definitely do it again.
Nicole FrostDecember 2023
Lovely local staff that were very…
Lovely local staff that were very accommodating and supportive.
Jae DuncanOctober 2023
A truly unforgettable experience
A truly unforgettable experience! The whole process was absolutely faultless from start to finish, The Might Roar Group didn't leave a stone unturned. I couldn't recommend them highly enough. It was everything I expected and more, from the children in the schools to some really incredible volunte... Read More
Matthew JenkinsSeptember 2023
A truly unforgettable experience
A truly unforgettable experience! The whole process was absolutely faultless from start to finish, The Might Roar Group didn't leave a stone unturned. I couldn't recommend them highly enough. It was everything I expected and more, from the children in the schools to some really incredible volunteers I was placed with who I now share memories for life with!
Matthew JenkinsSeptember 2023
Childcare in Ghana
I had an amazing time doing childcare volunteering in Ghana. It was a new, fun, eye opening experience that I will forever cherish. It has allowed me to make life long friendships and strong bonds with the children. The food was very good. The community was so kind and welcoming. I loved helping ... Read More
AnnSofie Van HoofAugust 2023
Childcare in Ghana
I had an amazing time doing childcare volunteering in Ghana. It was a new, fun, eye opening experience that I will forever cherish. It has allowed me to make life long friendships and strong bonds with the children. The food was very good. The community was so kind and welcoming. I loved helping the teachers and students expand their knowledge. It has been amazing seeing their positivity, energy and enthusiasm and I would definitely recommend this program. I look forward to coming back.
AnnSofie Van HoofAugust 2023
Ghana July 2023
I've volunteered with the mighty roar in Ghana twice now and I'm already planning my next trip to Busua. All of the staff are incredible, especially Dinah who always goes above and beyond to help you out. The locals are so friendly and welcome you with open arms and the kids are so full of joy. E... Read More
Izzy ArchardJuly 2023
Ghana July 2023
I've volunteered with the mighty roar in Ghana twice now and I'm already planning my next trip to Busua. All of the staff are incredible, especially Dinah who always goes above and beyond to help you out. The locals are so friendly and welcome you with open arms and the kids are so full of joy. Every day offered a new experience, allowing me to see what life is really like in Ghana, whilst also making incredible friends along the way. I've made bonds for life and I can't wait to come back and see everyone again next year.
Izzy ArchardJuly 2023
Dinah , Ghana contact is amazing!
TMR was great with the registration process, handbook and response to my questions was most helpful.
Dinah, our contact in Ghana is extraordinary- from the moment we met at airport I knew we were in the best of hands. She was incredibly responsive and available to all of us.
The exper... Read More
Shannon MartinJuly 2023
Dinah , Ghana contact is amazing!
TMR was great with the registration process, handbook and response to my questions was most helpful.
Dinah, our contact in Ghana is extraordinary- from the moment we met at airport I knew we were in the best of hands. She was incredibly responsive and available to all of us.
The experience volunteering at the schools truly is life changing. The children are soulful, kind and have genuine desire to learn. The schools are in need of so much , we now are tacking how do we make a long term impact.
Shannon MartinJuly 2023
Best 8 weeks of my life
I spent 8 weeks working in a school in Busua, Ghana. This was the best experience of my life where I met the most amazing people in the world. A special thank you to Emmanuel for looking after us everyday and keeping us safe. He is a true friend who I wish to see again.
Sam DoltonJuly 2023
THE BEST!
I have stayed in Ghana now for 3 weeks, I have just extended my trip after volunteering for 3 weeks for another month, not to volunteer but to see more of Busua. I have had the best time ever. I have met some incredible people and will never forget the experience. Everyone who works with us, Eben... Read More
Megan ReillyJune 2023
THE BEST!
I have stayed in Ghana now for 3 weeks, I have just extended my trip after volunteering for 3 weeks for another month, not to volunteer but to see more of Busua. I have had the best time ever. I have met some incredible people and will never forget the experience. Everyone who works with us, Ebenezer, Sylvester, Emmanuel, Dinah, Laura & Yaw have been so welcoming and I feel as though I am part of the community/family.
I can't recommend this programme enough, I did teaching/childcare and it has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I wouldn't change a thing. I can't wait to return.
Megan ReillyJune 2023
I just finished a 6 weeks volunteering…
I just finished a 6 weeks volunteering program in Ghana and really loved my time there! The team was great, Dinah, Emmanuel and Laura were amazing and really caring about the volunteers. I was doing the childcare program and the children in the school were adorable. Busua is a very welcoming plac... Read More
Eleonore CicchiniMay 2023
I just finished a 6 weeks volunteering…
I just finished a 6 weeks volunteering program in Ghana and really loved my time there! The team was great, Dinah, Emmanuel and Laura were amazing and really caring about the volunteers. I was doing the childcare program and the children in the school were adorable. Busua is a very welcoming place, the people are nice and open, the beach is beautiful and the food is delicious! I would recommend this experience to everyone!
Eleonore CicchiniMay 2023
The Most Amazing Company
I had the most incredible time Volunteering with The Mighty Roar! I met so many amazing people and felt that I, as well as The Mighty Roar, made such a massive difference to their lives and community. The accommodation was simple but lovely and the food provided was delicious!
The mighty ro... Read More
Charlee CrispFebruary 2023
The Most Amazing Company
I had the most incredible time Volunteering with The Mighty Roar! I met so many amazing people and felt that I, as well as The Mighty Roar, made such a massive difference to their lives and community. The accommodation was simple but lovely and the food provided was delicious!
The mighty roar is an amazing company and they help you so much throughout your whole journey from the moment you decide to go all the way until you get back.
I couldn’t recommend it any more!!
Charlee CrispFebruary 2023
Would Highly Recommend
I had an amazing time volunteering on the childcare programme in Ghana! The local team were so welcoming. Busua is absolutely beautiful with an amazing beach and I felt pretty safe. The food Dinah made for volunteers was delicious and she made me vegan meals:) Accommodation was basic but overall ... Read More
Mhairi MorrisonFebruary 2023
Would Highly Recommend
I had an amazing time volunteering on the childcare programme in Ghana! The local team were so welcoming. Busua is absolutely beautiful with an amazing beach and I felt pretty safe. The food Dinah made for volunteers was delicious and she made me vegan meals:) Accommodation was basic but overall nice. Would recommend the cape coast weekend trip it was a lot of fun. Thank you for an amazing experience:)
Mhairi MorrisonFebruary 2023
The Best Experience
I spent 2 weeks in Busua Ghana volunteering on the childcare course at the private school. Had the most amazing time with the children and the locals are so friendly. Would definitely recommend and would love to return!!!
Hannah ClareFebruary 2023
Wonderful Experience in Ghana
I volunteered in Busua, Ghana in mid July of this year and it was by far one of the best experiences I have ever had. Ebenezer and his staff were very lovely and all the other volunteers were too! The nursery was a lovely environment and I can't wait to hopefully come back next year!!
Madeleine LearSeptember 2022
Amazing Experience
I had the best time volunteering with the Mighty Roar in Ghana. The country is amazing and I have met some great people who will be friends for life. The community of Busua opens its arms to new volunteers and I felt very welcomed from day one. At the volunteer house, I felt looked after by Ebene... Read More
Sofia LeeApril 2022
Amazing Experience
I had the best time volunteering with the Mighty Roar in Ghana. The country is amazing and I have met some great people who will be friends for life. The community of Busua opens its arms to new volunteers and I felt very welcomed from day one. At the volunteer house, I felt looked after by Ebenezer and I really enjoyed the meals cooked by Dinah. Volunteering with the childcare project was one of the best experiences. The children are so funny, kind and loving and I really enjoyed teaching and playing with them. It was always nice when you would hear your name being called in the street! Overall, I would recommend volunteering in Ghana to anyone!
Sofia LeeApril 2022
Ghana was amazing!
I had the best time with the mighty roar in Ghana! Thanks so much!
Scarlett BroughNovember 2021
Volunteering in Ghana
I’ve just returned from the most amazing 3 weeks spent in Busua, Ghana. Previous to arriving the information and support from Chris and the UK team was second to none. Any questions we had were answered with great depth and as quickly as possible which filled us with great confidence we’d be ... Read More
Oliver EvansJuly 2021
Volunteering in Ghana
I’ve just returned from the most amazing 3 weeks spent in Busua, Ghana. Previous to arriving the information and support from Chris and the UK team was second to none. Any questions we had were answered with great depth and as quickly as possible which filled us with great confidence we’d be looked after when there.
On arrival in Ghana, Grace was waiting for us and kept us safe and sound! Ebenzer is one of the coolest guys I’ve met, he works tirelessly to make sure you’re happy and clearly cares a lot about the volunteers he welcomes into his home.
The Childcare programme was brilliant and I felt so valued. The kids are incredible and the experience shall be one I will never ever forget. I’m so glad that it was able to go ahead and The Mighty Roar have been nothing short of excellent, I would recommend them to anyone.
Oliver EvansJuly 2021
Volunteering in Ghana
These are difficult times to travel but I was determined and all through the planning the support from TMR was exceptional and from the moment I arrived it continued that way.
Grace was there waiting for me as I finally emerged from the airport and looked after me splendidly from ther... Read More
Mia June 2021
Volunteering in Ghana
These are difficult times to travel but I was determined and all through the planning the support from TMR was exceptional and from the moment I arrived it continued that way.
Grace was there waiting for me as I finally emerged from the airport and looked after me splendidly from there on in.
My arrival to Busua, Ebenezer and Diana the rest of the team was again lovely and more than expected..
Ebenezer has always been available at the volunteer house, Diana the house Mum was lovely, great food and very accommodating of preferences.
Kindergarten, my chosen volunteer project, was eye opening, busy, chaotic and great fun, I didn’t know I would have to be bouncer, carer, nose wiper and cuddler but I loved every moment. If you have never experienced kids fighting to hold your hand, walk to school with you, or home, have a cuddle, or thump you then you haven’t lived but if you want to then Busua and this project are the place to do it.
This month, this place, this experience has been everything it was said to be and so much more. My thanks to Ebenezer, Diana and Grace for all their help and support you all made my trip so special, My teachers too for sharing their classroom with me.. Lastly my special thanks to the children who welcomed with open arms - literally..
Mia June 2021
Childcare in Ghana
This experience was unlike anything I could have imagined! Our accommodation was located on the beach front, overlooking the breath taking views of Busua Beach. The rooms are basic with bucket showers, as you are fully immersed in the Ghanaian lifestyle. I think this made me appreciate how ... Read More
Megan BennettApril 2020
Childcare in Ghana
This experience was unlike anything I could have imagined! Our accommodation was located on the beach front, overlooking the breath taking views of Busua Beach. The rooms are basic with bucket showers, as you are fully immersed in the Ghanaian lifestyle. I think this made me appreciate how the locals live even more and the locals respected us for embracing their way of living also. Seeing these levels of poverty and being able to help and make a difference to people’s lives is something that will stay with me forever. I will never forget my time spent in Ghana, I would 100% recommend this experience to anybody!
Megan BennettApril 2020
A Great Organisation
The Mighty Roar was a great company to book my volunteering trip through and I had no problems from start to finish. Every single person involved in making the project run was so helpful and prompt, in the UK and Ghana. Parker was amazing in collecting us and taking us to the hostel and then to g... Read More
Alex BakerMarch 2020
A Great Organisation
The Mighty Roar was a great company to book my volunteering trip through and I had no problems from start to finish. Every single person involved in making the project run was so helpful and prompt, in the UK and Ghana. Parker was amazing in collecting us and taking us to the hostel and then to get breakfast, before the journey to meet Ebenezer. It all went so smoothly with us needing to ask very little as she was great in letting us know what was happening and looked after us all so well.
My experience in Ghana was one I will never forget. At the age of 31, I thought I was a bit old for this kind of thing but once I was there I found that it doesn't matter what age you are - it's all about how you perceive the experience. What you put into it is what you get out of it. I went to Ghana with an open mind to what I was going to experience and it excelled my thoughts and more! The local people of Ghana were the most friendly and welcoming people I have ever come across. To the extent that I have made some great bonds with people who looked out for me and made my experience, making great friends for life. The village of Busua was so safe and I got welcomed so much by locals that I very quickly felt like it was my home. The majority of the fellow volunteers were 18 on a gap year, with only a few being ages with me. They were all lovely and I got on really well with them all. I know one of the youngest girls appeared to be homesick and I think found the experience to be less appealing than she'd possibly thought it would be. I have heard a few complaints were made from her. I personally think that this girl is an exception to the majority that come to experience volunteering in Ghana. As I have nothing but great words to say about my whole experience and I know that the volunteers I have left behind still there are having the time of their lives! It is a great opportunity for young people, for anyone really! but I think it really puts your life into perspective and opens your mind up to so much more. I do believe that to get the most from your experience, you have to be open minded and willing to gain from it. If one person did not enjoy their time, then it's on them, as I have no complaints to make.
I would say the volunteer house was very basic, but I had no grumbles to make, as I didn't have any great expectations. To note: The bathroom sink in our bedroom was cracked and with no water coming through the tap. However, this did not cause any problems.
Dinah did an amazing job at feeding us all so well with her great cooking. I have no complaints to make with the meals or food. It was a variety throughout the week and all very tasty. Dinah even began writing a menu and asking us all to choose what we would like for the next days meals which was nice. She was also so lovely in helping me out with getting my hair done and coming to the market in Agona with me when I wanted the same trousers she had.
Ebenezer was a great host in Busua and was very accommodating with being prompt in answering txts and being there when needed. He took us on 2 trips. I believe I had booked the mole national park trip which I then found out wasn't running so we then went on the kakum national park trip - I think I may be due a refund of £30 as this trip is cheaper. I also went on the trip to the village on stilts. Both trips were really good and went so smoothly.
I had an amazing time in the Busua public school. I worked between key 1 and key 2 classes. I work in a nursery back home so it was great to see the difference in educating and used my own knowledge and experience. I spent 4 days within the nursery/childcare class and then 1 day at the private school. This was meant to be 4 days, to split up my time experiencing the different school and ages groups, but after one day, I really missed my kids back at the other school so I went back to them.
I have used the £500 I raised to take with me on sponsoring 4 boys from key 1 and key 2 classes and I went to Agona market with 2 locals who helped me to get lots of things for the children with the best prices.
I have already planned to return to Busua next year, whether it's through The Mighty Roar or booking myself. I will be back to see my friends and children, hoping to take more money and make more of an impact. I think this is a great project, making a huge difference to the children of Busua, and I would highly recommend The Mighty Roar to anyone looking to experience working with children in a disadvantaged country.
Thanks for an amazing trip.
Alex BakerMarch 2020
Volunteering experience in Ghana
So I have been back a week after one of the best summers of my life. Travelled to Ghana solo for the childcare/teaching experience in Busua. Met some amazing volunteers who are now friends. The village is amazing and very friendly. The kids WOW! They are in... Read More
Emma LeonardSeptember 2019
Volunteering experience in Ghana
So I have been back a week after one of the best summers of my life. Travelled to Ghana solo for the childcare/teaching experience in Busua. Met some amazing volunteers who are now friends. The village is amazing and very friendly. The kids WOW! They are incredible, bright, intelligent and eager to learn new things. My only criticism is that the school is actually closed over summer so it’s a little adhoc and you have to gather children to teach them. So be aware if travelling during the school holidays that you may not get a full teaching experience. Although saying that we still managed to get around 20+ children everyday.
The accommodation is basic but serves its purpose. Prepare to be sweaty and dirty most of the time lol Adds to the experience lol! The food at the volunteer house is bland and repetitive, gets a bit too much to cope with. Rice, Yam and plantain often.
The beach is stunning and the whole community are very welcoming. You won’t regret it. I hope to retune next year.
Donations are gratefully received but I would save them until your final day to give out.
To make this five star I would say I should have been informed the school was actually closed before I travelled and the food needs more variety.
But all in all such an amazing experience that will make you extremely grateful for everything when you return home. Never been so excited for hot water, a shower and flushing toilet.
See you all again next year, thanks Mighty Roar and Ebenezzer for an overwhelming amazing experience.
Emma LeonardSeptember 2019
My life has been changed
Many of my friends asked if my volunteering time in Ghana was the same that I have expected. I had no expectations when I left, but I came back home with lots of love and respect to everyone in Busua.
I have been teaching basic English language and looking after the kids at the kinde... Read More
Erika BircsakJuly 2019
My life has been changed
Many of my friends asked if my volunteering time in Ghana was the same that I have expected. I had no expectations when I left, but I came back home with lots of love and respect to everyone in Busua.
I have been teaching basic English language and looking after the kids at the kindergarten (2-3 y/o) it was hard work along with 2 local Teachers. Kids needs more logic developed games, some of them were soo focused and "ready to learn". All of them with full of love. I feel blessed to be in Ghana (for only) 3 weeks and always here to help anyhow.
Best part of my time was being alone while watching surfing and the fishermens life on the beach and making good friends with the lovely local people.
Erika BircsakJuly 2019
The Mighty Roar
Can’t fault the mighty roar, the whole trip was just incredible and I cannot wait to go back!
Alysha Le BreuillyMay 2019
The Mighty Roar was excellent in every way
The mighty roar was excellent in providing help and support from start to finish, before I booked the trip they where always helpful and this continued throughout my entire volunteering experience. The mighty roar provided a professional service and made me feel safe with where I would be heading... Read More
Christopher FoxMay 2019
The Mighty Roar was excellent in every way
The mighty roar was excellent in providing help and support from start to finish, before I booked the trip they where always helpful and this continued throughout my entire volunteering experience. The mighty roar provided a professional service and made me feel safe with where I would be heading.
Christopher FoxMay 2019
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Accommodation & meals
Accommodation & meals
During your time in Ghana you will be staying within our volunteer accommodation that is nestled up in the hills overlooking the small village of Busua. Offering far-reaching views out across the sea and surrounded by palm trees, this quiet spot is the perfect place to call home.
Most of your time will be spent on the picturesque beach, that offers golden white sands with palm trees lined along the whole bay. An up and coming tourist hotspot for surfers, you will be able to cool down in the blue waters of the Atlantic and even try your hand at surfing.
The small village community of Busua (where everyone knows everyone), will welcome you with open arms and you will be made to feel like a local from day one. During your free time you can laze in one the many hammocks located on the beach, relax in one of the several beach bars and restaurants, join in with a game of football with the children, play the drums around the bonfire or go for a swim at the local hotel.
There are several small shops scattered around the village where you can purchase some snacks and other essentials. The nearby town of Takoradi offers everything else you may need, with large supermarkets and ATMs.
The purpose built volunteer accommodation is made from traditional stone carvings and although basic, it is clean and comfortable. Everyone will come together at meal times outside under the porch to share stories and to enjoy some local cuisine.
You will be sharing your bedroom with up to 5 other volunteers, in single sex rooms. Each room has 3 bunk beds and an en-suite bathroom that provides western style toilets and cold showers. All bedding is provided, as well as a ceiling fan to keep you cool at night.
A member of our local team will also live at the house, should you need anything while there.
During busier times or if you would prefer a private room, then you may be placed at Dadson Lodge. The basic guesthouse is located just over the road from our volunteer accommodation (less than a one minute walk) and you will be sharing a room with up to 3 other volunteers within your bedroom and there is space for 20+ volunteers in total. Although separate from the main accommodation, you will still have all of your meals at the main volunteer accommodation and you will always be sharing with other volunteers.
Meals
You will be provided with three meals cooked on- site at the accommodation from Monday to Friday. Most people tend to travel at the weekends, but if you are staying around the house then meals are available, but are a small additional cost.
Most meals are traditional Ghanaian dishes that consist of a lot of carbs. The main kinds of meat are fish, chicken and goat. Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Porridge, sandwiches, tea & coffee
Lunch – Spaghetti, rice, red red
Dinner – Rice, banku, stew, fufu, soups, chicken
There are a number of restaurants on the beach that provide several western options – just a 5- minute walk from the accommodation.
Vegetarian options are always available at every meal time. Vegan dishes can be provided upon request.
Our team will do their best to cater for any dietary requirements, but there may instances where you may need to purchase alternative ingredients at your own expense.
Volunteer fees
Volunteer fees
All of the below prices exclude the £179 registration fee. The total price payable is the below programme price + the £179 registration fee, as will be confirmed in the application process. To find out exactly what's included as part of fees, please click the What's Included box on the programme page.
What’s included
What’s included
The fees you pay go towards the structure and support put in place in order to provide you with an organised and safe environment in which to volunteer. The programme fee goes directly to our local team in Ghana and is used towards the following:
- 24-hour airport pickup
- Accommodation
- Three meals per day (on volunteering days)
- In-country orientation
- 24-hour in-country support
- Your first night's stay in Accra and transport to Busua
The registration fee that you pay to confirm your place on the volunteer programme is retained by our team in the United Kingdom. This fee is used towards the following:
- 24-hour UK based emergency support
- Unlimited telephone and email support
- A comprehensive volunteer handbook
- Assistance with all aspects of your trip
- 100% financial protection
- Regular programme inspections
- Certificate of completion
What's not included
There are still some parts of your trip that will need to be funded by yourself, these include:
- Flights to Accra
- Travel insurance
- The transfer back to the airport
- Transport to the project
- Visa
- Criminal background check
- Spending money
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
What date & time should I arrive into Ghana for my volunteer programme?
You should arrive at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra on your selected start date, being the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. You are more than welcome to arrive at anytime on your start date and the local team will be waiting in the arrivals hall to greet you. A member of the team will be holding a sign with your name on it and they will take you to the nearby accommodation for you to settle in and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
When should I book my flights to leave Ghana and how do I get back to the airport?
The programme ends on the Saturday of your final week and you should depart the accommodation on this day. Although the return airport transfer is not included as part of the programme fee, you can easily arrange this with the local team whilst in Ghana for a small additional cost - which can also be split between anyone else travelling at the same time.
What airport do I need to fly to?
You should arrive at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana.
Are flights included within the total cost?
The programme fee does not unfortunately include flights. You will find a list of what is included as part of the volunteer fee within the 'What's Included' link, just above this FAQ section.
How do I arrange my flights to Ghana?
You will need to arrange your flights to and from your chosen destination and we will happily assist wherever required. When you first sign up to volunteer with The Mighty Roar you will gain access to your pre-departure volunteer handbook that will have all of the important arrival and departure details, including correct airports, dates and times.
We recommend using a flight comparison website like Sky Scanner. Not only will you be able to see the range of prices, but you can also see what airline and route / duration is best for your requirements and budget. Although we recommend booking your flights as early as possible to help ensure you secure the best price and required dates, it can also help to monitor the price over the course of a few weeks to see what the average is.
There may also be times when changing your flight dates by a day or two provides substantial savings, so this is always worth checking and bearing in mind. We may not be able to accommodate you within the volunteer accommodation outside of your selected dates, but can provide hotel recommendations etc...
If you are unsure about anything regarding your flights then please just get in contact with us. We are more than happy to check over your preferred flights to ensure they are correct with the requirements of your programme before you book them.
We strongly recommend that you do not make any flight and / or third party travel arrangements until your place has been confirmed via email by The Mighty Roar. Please note that we cannot accept standby flights, all flight details provided to us must be fully confirmed.
What is the average age of the other volunteers?
The gap year market is our largest audience, which means our average age range is between 17 and 25 years old. The vast majority of our volunteers are travelling by themselves and generally for their first time, ensuring our programmes are perfect for making new lifelong friends!
Are there any age restrictions to volunteer in Ghana?
If you are hoping to volunteer with us in Ghana, then you will need to be at least 17 years old on the programme start date. If you are travelling to Ghana as a family (with at least one person being aged 18 years or over), then we are happy to welcome anyone from 5 years and up on the programme start date.
None of our programmes have an upper age limit and in the past we have hosted participants of all ages. We find that age does not play an important part of volunteering abroad, as everyone has travelled for the same reason and to make new friends. However, in saying this, we have found at times that our more mature participants have perhaps expected a higher level of accommodation or structure. We cannot stress enough that all volunteers should remain open minded and flexible.
What are the requirements to be a volunteer in Ghana?
The Mighty Roar welcomes volunteers from all nationalities, religions and backgrounds. No previous experience or qualifications are required to volunteer and we look forward to hosting everyone who is willing to come and help make a difference and bring lots of positive energy.
We ask that all volunteers have a good level and understanding of English, although it does not need to be your first language. You of course do not need to speak the local dialect, but you will find learning a few words will go a long way.
You must be able to provide a clean criminal background check in advance of volunteering with us abroad. We're afraid we are generally unable to accept anyone who has any previous convictions, but please do get in touch so we can discuss this further.
Volunteering abroad can at times be both physically and mentally challenging, therefore we ask that all participants be fit in both areas. If you do have any medical / mental health conditions that you believe may affect your time volunteering, then these must be declared to us during the application process. If you have any questions regarding your suitability, then please do not hesitate to contact us.
Can I talk to previous volunteers and others who will be volunteering in Ghana at the same time as me?
Each and every destination we operate in has its very own dedicated Facebook group where you can talk with past, present and future volunteers. This is the perfect place to ask any questions from previous volunteers and to also talk with other volunteers who will be volunteering at the same time as you.
You can request to join the Ghana Facebook group by clicking here.
I am really interested in volunteering in Ghana, when should I apply?
You are more than welcome to apply at any time for any of our programmes, with start dates available at least two years in advance. We recommend that you apply as soon as you know it is something you 100% want to do, to ensure the best chances of availability on your chosen dates. Many of our programmes have limited capacity and at times these spaces can get filled very quickly - this is particularly true for our peak period between June and August.
We generally recommend applying at least 60 days in advance to give you ample time to ensure everything has been arranged. However, if you are looking to volunteer sooner than this, then it should not be a problem. Please do get in contact if you have any concerns about arranging any essentials within a shorter timeframe.
Once you have applied and confirmed your place on the programme, then it is possible to amend your start date and / or duration. Any changes need to be made at least 60 days prior to your start date and are subject to availability.
What duration would you recommend volunteering for?
This is of course down to personal preference, however, on gaining feedback from previous volunteers we believe 3 to 6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to volunteer for. Not only will you be able to get fully involved with all aspects of the programme and integrate yourself within the local community, but you will also have many opportunities to explore everything Ghana has to offer on the weekends. We regularly have volunteers come for 1 to 2 weeks that tell us they wish they stayed for longer.
Is it safe to travel to Ghana? What support will I receive?
While we can never guarantee your volunteer experience will be 100% trouble free, we have taken all of the necessary precautions to minimise all risks and to ensure all programmes are as safe as possible. Our helpful and knowledgeable UK team are with you throughout your whole journey, from answering questions about programmes, through the application process, providing pre-departure information, support while in-country and to answer any questions you may have on your return home.
A member of our UK team visit each and every volunteer programme we offer on a regular basis to rigorously check all aspects of the project - something generally not done by most other organisations! We experience every programme just like a volunteer would, from staying within the accommodation, helping on the projects, eating the meals provided and travelling the local area. By doing this, not only can we ensure everything is safe and running as planned, but we can truly tell you what to expect and can provide informed recommendations and advice about anything relating to your trip.
As part of our commitment to your safety, we monitor the stability of all of our volunteer destinations on a daily basis. We are in communication with the local embassies and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and we are also in constant contact with our overseas teams to ensure we can identify and act upon any problems immediately.
Every volunteer programme we offer has a co-ordinator and several key team members who will be in charge of ensuring your whole trip runs smoothly. Our local teams are made up of highly experienced individuals who have hosted international volunteers for many years. Everyone will be introduced to you during your orientation and it's these amazing people that will be on hand to answer any questions, deal with any issues and to help make any travel arrangements. Over the duration of your programme, we are sure that the local staff will also become your new best friends and will make your experience even more enjoyable!
With the majority of our programmes, a member of our local team or a trusted appointed driver will be waiting for you at the airport for when you arrive. Over the first day or two you will be given a full orientation that will cover things like emergency procedures, how to use the local transport, the do's and don'ts, local cultures and health and safety information.
Please do not forget that our UK office is available 24/7 in case of any rare emergencies, on the number provided within the volunteer handbook. Both our UK and international team's contact details can be passed onto friends and families and to ensure everyone has peace of mind.
Will I need any vaccinations and / or malaria tablets to volunteer abroad?
As we are not medical experts and have no qualifications or experience within this field, we are unable to give any advice about what vaccinations you should or should not have. It is important for you to consult with your local doctor or travel clinic to find out which vaccinations are needed / recommended. They will generally ask where abouts you will be travelling to and what activities you will be involved in. Additional information can be found on the NHS Fit For Travel website.
When is the best time of year to volunteer in Ghana?
Over the years we have hosted many volunteers across all of our programmes in Ghana and have obtained lots of feedback from everyone. The comments suggest that if you are looking for a large social experience then volunteering during the European summer months of June to August will provide the best experience. During this time we host our peak numbers across all projects and this is when we will be at total capacity in terms of the accommodation and numbers at the projects.
Conversely, volunteering outside of these months will typically provide the greatest opportunity to become fully immersed at the projects and within the local community and give you the chance to build a greater bond with our local team. You will of course still make many new lifelong friends along the way too!
What will a typical week in Ghana entail?
Please make sure you arrive into Kotoka International Airport in Accra (ACC) on Saturday.
Day 1 (Saturday) – Arrival & Accra
Please ensure you arrive into Kotoka International Airport in Accra, Ghana (ACC) on your selected start date – being a Saturday. A member of our local team will be waiting for you in the arrival’s hall holding a named signed. You will make the short journey to our partner hostel, around 20 minutes away. The rest of the day is yours to spend relaxing and getting to know your fellow volunteers as and when they arrive.
Day 2 (Sunday) – Travel to Busua
After a good night’s rest and a delicious breakfast, we will take a taxi to Accra central bus station. We will be taking a VIP bus from Accra to Takoradi, with the journey taking around 5 hours. The buses have air-conditioning, a tv and are very comfortable. On arrival into Takoradi, we will take a short taxi ride to Busua. The rest of the day is then very relaxed, where you can get used to your new surroundings and you can explore the beach with everyone else.
Day 3 (Monday) – Orientation and volunteering
First thing in the morning (around 8:30am), Ebenezer will provide you with your full orientation. He will go into detail about each project, health and safety information and show you around the village, pointing out all of the essentials. The childcare and teaching volunteers will then get straight to work, with medical volunteers having a tour of the hospital.
Day 4-7 (Tuesday – Friday) – Volunteering
You will continue your volunteering. The majority of volunteering programmes will start at 8am and finish at 3pm. Shifts in the hospital can vary and this will be explained to you during your first few days. Should you need anything at the project, then just let our local team know.
Day 8-9 (Saturday – Sunday) – Weekend
Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend on the beach at the accommodation, or looking to explore everything Ghana has to offer – this is your time to do as you please. The weekends are ideal for you to travel Ghana and you will find a comprehensive list of ideas and also information about our organised weekend trips on our website.
The following weeks
Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, with volunteering from Monday to Friday and then free time Saturday and Sunday. Our local team are there to support you throughout your stay. If you need advice about your travel plans or just someone to talk to then they are there for you.
Last day (Saturday)
On your last week, Saturday is your official last day with The Mighty Roar. If you wish to stay longer then please discuss this option with our local or UK team. If you are heading home then we can help arrange your return airport drop off. Please note that this is not included within the programme fee and there are several options to take – full details can be found within the volunteer handbook.
Can I volunteer with TMR if I live outside of the UK?
Yes of course! Although The Mighty Roar is located within the United Kingdom, we welcome participants from all around the world. Over the years we have hosted many volunteers from across the globe, including USA, Germany, France, Canada, Australia and more. We wish for everyone to have an equal opportunity to travel and help make a difference, no matter where you are from.
Can I volunteer abroad with my friends / parents / partner?
You are of course more than welcome to travel and volunteer with your friends, family members and / or your partner. If required, we can ensure that you stay within the same accommodation and volunteer at the same project - so that you are together as often as wanted. Our main volunteer accommodation is on a single-sex basis, so if you are wanting to share a a room with someone of the opposite sex, we can arrange this, but it would be at the nearby Dadson Lodge Guesthouse - within walking distance of everyone else.
Why are TMR's volunteering fees so much more affordable than other organisations?
The Mighty Roar was founded with the aim to make all of our volunteering programmes as affordable and accessible as possible, allowing this once in a lifetime opportunity to all travellers. If you really want, we will even allow you to compare our pricing with other organisations, charities and not-for-profits where you will find us significantly cheaper.
How can we do this I hear you ask? Well, it’s pretty simple really! We do not need big fancy offices, lots of employees or massive monthly overheads. Our small family team work from a cosy farm office and we have done away with out-dated glossy brochures, an unnecessary high street shop or plush office and because we are passionate about what we do, we don't need 10+ staff to handle all of the operations.
Will I be able to travel whilst volunteering in Ghana?
There will be plenty of opportunities for you to travel while volunteering in Ghana. In fact, we actively encourage you to do so! Not only will you have several hours of free time every weekday to explore the local area, but you will also have the weekends off - allowing you to head further afield. Our local team are able to provide you with recommendations and details of any weekend opportunities and travel tips to help you plan any independent adventures. Please feel free to also browse some of our own recommendations further down on the programme page.
The Mighty Roar also operate a number of amazing weekend trips every month that allow you to explore the country as a group with your new-found friends. The structured itinerary along with our local team accompanying you ensures you travel in a safe manner and allows you to see as much as possible during your free time. You can view all available weekend opportunities here.
When do I pay for my volunteer programme? Can I pay in instalments?
In order for you to confirm your placement on one of our programmes, you need to pay the registration fee of £179. Your remaining balance for your programme fee and any weekend trips and / or optional extras is then due no less than 60 days prior to your programme start date. if you're applying within 60 days of your programme start date then the remaining balance will be due no later than 7 days after your initial application.
When paying for your remaining balance, this can be made in one lump sum or split into several smaller instalments - just as long as the balance is clear 60 days prior to your programme start date. If you have chosen to take travel insurance through The Mighty Roar, then this must be paid in full before the policy can be processed and made live.
We accept payments via BACS (bank transfer) or through our website using all major debit and credit cards. All details required to make payment will be outlined in our email communications with you and they can also be found within your online account once you have confirmed your place.
Can I use the programme as part of my university or college placement?
Yes, it is generally possible to use the majority of our programmes as part of your university or college placement. Since all placements have different requirements and parameters, we recommend that you speak to a member of our UK team to ensure that your chosen volunteer programme will be suitable. Any school / college / university representative is more than welcome to contact us to discuss further the suitability of our programmes and to ensure they are satisfied with all aspects of the trip.
Our UK and in-country teams are able to complete and sign-off any paperwork that is required before your volunteer placement begins, during your trip and upon your return. The Mighty Roar regularly receives college and university students on our programmes and have built up strong ties with many leading universities.
Can I fundraise to pay for my volunteering trip?
Although we do our best to keep our programme costs as low and as affordable as possible, when you add flights, travel insurance and spending money you may find that you need a little financial help. The money you and other volunteers pay for the programme goes towards the overall structure of the project and includes your accommodation, meals, airport transfers and support from our UK and local teams.
Consequently, a large number of our volunteers decide to fundraise for their upcoming trip. We find that the best way of letting all of your friends and family know about your volunteer adventure is to create an online fundraising page. The Mighty Roar have teamed up with GoGetFunding who are an online crowd funding website that many of our volunteers have used and have recommended in the past. You will be able to create a personalised fundraising page of your own where you can tell everyone exactly what you are doing and why you need some extra money (the more detail you go into the better), set financial goals and upload lots of pictures.
You can read some more advice about fundraising for your upcoming trip here.
How much spending money will I need?
It is very difficult for us to give an exact figure for how much spending money you will need to take with you. The amount you spend is totally dictated on what you plan on doing during your free time and at the weekends. We recommend that you budget between £50 and £100 per week for general expenses and some independent travel. However, if you plan to travel every weekend and take part in many activities then you should budget accordingly. If you are on a tight budget, then we have had many volunteers come and not spend that much at all.
Who are the the local team in Ghana?
Our programmes in Ghana are run by a dedicated and experienced in-country local team. Ebenezer and his colleagues are in charge of providing the overall structure for your stay, including the accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, in-country orientation and 24/7 emergency support.
All local staff have been fully vetted by our UK team and over the years we have built up a strong relationship with them. The local team provide a great framework for you to enjoy a unique volunteering experience with us in Ghana and they are sure to become your good friends, giving you a unique insight into Ghana.
Can I arrange a private room?
Our main volunteer accommodation in Ghana involves sharing a room with other participants on a same-sex basis. However, if you wish to have a private room, we are able to arrange this at the nearby guesthouse called Dadson Lodge - within walking distance of everyone else.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Our local team will do their best to cater for any dietary requirements you may have. Any dietary requirements should be provided on your application and re-iterated to the local team on arrival into the country. It is important that if you have any concerns for major requirements, that you raise these with our UK team before confirming your place on the programme.
It is important to note that we cannot guarantee that we can cater for all requirements. Consequently, there may be instances where you need to purchase alternative ingredients or arrange dinner plans at a third party restaurant at your own expense.
Where will I be volunteering in Ghana?
Situated just 30km west of Takoradi and located in the south of Ghana, Busua is a magnet for surfers and tourists who are looking to spend a few days relaxing on the beach. There’s a sociable vibe with several chilled-out beach bars and cafes, congregated on the beach where you can while away the hours.
Traditionally a fishing town, Busua is an up and coming tourist destination because of it’s surfing scene. Offering shark free waters, it’s the perfect place for all levels of surfers. The village has only recently obtained full electricity connection (around 15 years ago) and most of the village still does not have running water.
There is a real sense of community spirit here, with everyone knowing everyone and volunteers being welcomed with open arms.
The secluded beach offers amazing walks along the coast and you can venture inland to trek the jungles. Cape Coast and other famous touristy destinations are also just a short journey away.
What is the weather like in Ghana?
Being close to the equator, Ghana has a tropical climate with it being generally warm and sunny all year round – average temperatures of just below 30 degrees.
There is one rainy season that runs from the middle of May until the middle of July. Please do not be alarmed by this, the rain will generally occur for a couple of hours a day and the rest of the time will be beautiful blue skies.
What is the dress code at the projects?
We ask that all volunteers take the approach of a smart and responsible image during your time in the communities and on projects. It is best to also take some older clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Generally, it is best to avoid tight and very short clothing and anything that may have offensive slogans on it. It's recommended that you take some nicer clothes for weekends or any free time you may have.
We do not wish to impose strict regulations, however we do ask that you respect the local culture and do your best to adhere to the clothing guidelines within the volunteer handbook.
Are there any public holidays that would affect the project?
We aim to communicate as clearly and accurately as possible all holidays that may affect project availability and closures. This information can be found on our Holiday Dates page and within the volunteer handbook. However,holidays can often be sporadic or prone to change. We ask that you be flexible with regards to holidays andgenerally a holiday would offer a unique experience to enjoy in the festivities. Some programmes may not be affected by certain holidays, so if you would like to confirm any details please just let us know.
When holidays occur, this will usually offer a unique opportunity for volunteers to join in and enjoy the local festivities. On top of this, the local team will generally arrange alternative project work where applicable, including community classes, assisting on a different project within the community and more.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Whether you are travelling for 1 week or 6 months, having adequate travel insurance that covers your entire duration abroad is an essential and compulsory part of your adventure. Although The Mighty Roar does everything in their power to ensure each and every trip is safe, inevitably things can and do go wrong. Therefore, having a travel insurance policy in place will help you with any problems you may encounter during your time away.
We have teamed up with Endsleigh to create an affordable and comprehensive travel insurance policy specifically for The Mighty Roar volunteers. You can be safe in the knowledge that you have full protection if needed and that our polices cover all of your volunteering activities.
If you would like to purchase your travel insurance through TMR then you can easily add this on when applying under the optional extras page. Alternatively, you can contact us today to add this onto your existing application. Please do not contact Endsleigh directly, as they will be unable to assist.
We recommend that you organise your travel insurance as soon as you confirm your place. This will ensure that your pre-departure cancellation starts from the day you are accepted and will cover you should you have to cancel your trip for an insured reason (such as illness).
You should ensure that your travel insurance covers you for the total duration of your trip i.e. from when you depart your home country to the day you return. It is important to note that our travel insurance is inclusive of your start and end date. For example, if you are volunteering for one week, from Saturday to Saturday, this is in actual fact 8 days and you will need to take out 2 weeks insurance to be fully covered.
For further information about our travel insurance, please click here.
How do I obtain a criminal background check?
In order for you to participate in any of our volunteering programmes, you will need to present to us a clean criminal background check (also known as a DBS or Police Check). This must be submitted and approved no less than 21 days prior to your programme start date. A criminal background check is a mandatory requirement for all volunteers aged 16 and over. We are unable to provide any exceptions to this, which is why it is important that you apply for one as soon as possible – at least 6 weeks prior to your start date.
If you already have a criminal background check that has been issued within 18 months of your programme start date, then you are more than welcome to provide this.
If you don't have a valid DBS check then you will need to apply for one. UK volunteers need to apply for a "Basic Disclosure" through the government website here. This costs £23 and can take up to 15 working days to process.
For international participants, we recommend you obtain a Police/Criminal Background Check through your local police station or official governmental body.
When will I receive my volunteer handbook?
All volunteers will receive a comprehensive volunteer handbook that provides all of the information you need to prepare for your upcoming trip. This includes details on what to pack, how to obtain a visa, what to expect and so much more. With this in mind, it is really important that you read through the volunteer handbook carefully.
You will receive your volunteer handbook once you have confirmed your place by paying the registration fee. We will send an email entitled 'Welcome to TMR', which will include a link to your online account where you can access the handbook and other important details. Please note, all material is sent via email and hard copies cannot be sent

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Medical volunteering in Ghana
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