FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions which you may have about volunteering with TBACT. If you have a query about our programme which isn’t listed below then please contact your nearest TBACT volunteer coordinator.

Why should I volunteer with TBACT?

Volunteering is generally an opportunity to learn new skills and broaden horizons; see a new country, meet new people and make some new friends but with TBACT more than anything else it's about helping the most vulnerable and neglected children in Europe.

It is an opportunity to get involved directly in a cause you care about. Our programme is run by experienced volunteers who interview, advise and manage volunteer teams throughout the year. Volunteer placements are flexible so you can make a difference even when you only have a short amount of time to spare.

Why pay to volunteer abroad?

Volunteering through an organisation like TBACT ensures that you work on volunteer projects in genuine need of support that makes a real difference to abandoned and disabled children.

How do you choose who can participate?

Our programme is open to volunteers from all backgrounds and we actively support recruitment of a diverse range of people to participate.

No prior experience or qualifications are needed, but you will need to demonstrate motivation and commitment to be involved. Volunteers will be selected against broad competencies and aptitudes such as the ability to work with others, flexibility and adaptability, and demonstration of positive, realistic commitment to the programme.

What is the application process?

You can apply either through our website or by requesting an application form.

Remember to send in £10 deposit to cover our admin costs (postal order or cheque payable to TBACT) and a recent passport sized photo of yourself for purposes of identification with your form. We will then contact you to arrange a meeting with a TBACT regional coordinator. Your CRB form will be completed at this stage.

When we receive a satisfactory CRB report we will check your references and confirm if you have been approved as a volunteer. You will then be able to fundraise for your placement.

How much will it cost and what does this include?

The costs of volunteering in Bulgaria will depend on the length of placement you take. A two week volunteer placement normally costs £200 and includes:
• Accommodation
• Transfer from Sofia to Pleven upon arrival
• Public liability insurance
• CRB check*
• Pre-briefing with a TBACT volunteer co-ordinator

Please note your flights, food and in-country travel expenses are not included.
* CRB equivalent checks for overseas volunteers are charged extra

Can I fundraise to pay for my placement?

Yes of course. Lots of volunteers fundraise to offset the costs. We have lots of helpful advice on fundraising but we ask that you only fundraise once you have been approved as a volunteer.

When do I need to pay?

We request an initial payment of £10 with your application form to cover costs of administration and CRB processing. It is fully refundable if you choose to volunteer on our programme. Once you have accepted a placement on our programme a £100 holding deposit is required and the balance of your placement fee is due 40 days prior to departure.

I am not from the UK; can I still volunteer?

Yes you can.
Most volunteers are British, but we have also had volunteers from other countries.

Our application process is similar but we can arrange telephone interviews with a TBACT volunteer coordinator and the CRB checks are different depending on the country you are applying from.

Please note the equivalent CRB checks for overseas volunteers are considerably higher – on average costing £65 or more.

Can I volunteer with my friends on the same project?

Yes, we welcome groups of friends but all volunteers have to apply individually and are subject to the same criteria of acceptance. We accept a maximum of 6 friends for a group placement. You may also be eligible for a group discount.

Is it safe?

We carry out regular risk assessments and only send volunteers to Bulgaria in the belief they will be safe. We provide you with a comprehensive pre-departure briefing and you will have a team leader to support you as well as a local volunteer coordinator whilst you are in-country.

What will my accommodation be like?

Volunteers stay together in a comfortable residential flat in a central part of Pleven. It is nearby to the institution and close to amenities too.
Volunteers are expected to share a room with another volunteer. However, if you want to have your own room you need to indicate this clearly on your application form and if we can arrange it we will – however it’s by no means certain we can – and it would involve an increase to the cost to your trip.

How old are the volunteers?

Our volunteers are all ages and come from all walks of life from students to teachers, artists to doctors. Part of the volunteer experience is meeting different people!

Do I need a visa?

If you are a EU resident then No.
If you are coming from outsidethe EU you may need one.
It is the responsibility of the volunteer to organise the appropriate travel documents.

Can I speak to a past volunteer?

All our volunteer coordinators are available to discuss the project in detail.

Do you need to speak a foreign language?

No. Our pre-briefing notes have some helpful words and expressions to help you in Bulgaria. Some of the staff in the Baby Institution speak English but don’t however, worry if you’re not great with languages – enthusiasm will generally get you through!

What is the next-step?

If you are interested in volunteering in Bulgaria please apply online or contact our volunteer coordinator, for an application form email :volunteer@tbact.org