Portugal: ESC: Volunteering at the Red Cross in Portugal (Long Term)

About the local hosting organization

Integrated in the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the Portuguese Red Cross has been operating in emerging scenarios of armed conflict and natural disasters both in Portugal and abroad. The Red Cross is the biggest humanitarian organization in the whole world reaching over 150 million beneficiaries. Our intervention always happens in line with our fundamental principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary service, Unity and Universality. Our organization's aim is to provide assistance without discrimination (as to nationality, race, religious background, social class or political beliefs) in order to improve the lives of vulnerable people. Our organization's scope of action is very wide with different activities for different target groups developing our work community-based. In the community where our organization is based we are experiencing social problems that are rather common in small rural towns such as ours: elderly people are the majority since qualified young people leave to live in cities; many middle-aged adults living alone or with children become unemployed or struggle with illnesses or addictions (substance usage). For this reason we develop activities and projects for every sort of beneficiaries (from adults and the elderly to children and youth). We are constantly trying to improve our social response with creative and innovative solutions bringing in new methods and tools. The Portuguese Red Cross - Delegation of Cucujães works towards improving our community at both regional and national levels seeking to fulfil our goal of fighting for equality and dignity of all the people promoting equal access to essential social services. Our biggest strength is our volunteers without whom we wouldn't be able to provide such a big and impactful response to social problems. These local volunteers are from the most diverse ages, academic and professional backgrounds and from all paths of life: some have been beneficiaries before and are now empowered to deal and support those facing the same obstacles as they have.

Presentation of the programme

Spend 4 months volunteering for the Red Cross in Portugal! This European Solidarity Corps project offers hands-on experience in community engagement and direct interaction with vulnerable target groups of the population. Volunteers support a wide range of activities, including activities at the elderly nursing home and rehabilitation centre (for people recovering from addictions), activities at a local primary school and permaculture farm. Volunteers also have the chance to be involved in activities connected to a local pilgrim shelter (Santiago de Compostela), environmental initiatives and local fundraising events. Tasks are varied and practical.

About the accomodation

Volunteers will live in a private apartment with shared bedrooms (2 people per room) with other international volunteers. Accommodation costs, utilities are fully covered and the apartment is fully equipped with necessary applicances, bed linen and towels. Volunteers will receive monthly pocket money and food allowance according to ESC regulations (currently approximately 340€/month). Travel costs from and to the home country of the volunteer will be covered according to the ESC programme rules.

About the leisure activities

The volunteers will take part in the On Arrival Orientation (2 days) and in one Training organized by the Portuguese National Agency. Volunteers also receive on-the-job support and training on their tasks and they will take part in monthly group activities to develop soft skills and personal competences. An online Portuguese language course is also provided, along with opportunities to learn additional practical skills depending on volunteers interests and suggestions.

Requirements

The Participant profile: We are looking for motivated young people aged 18 - 30 who are availabile for the entire project period (August to December 2026). We are looking for people who are practical and comfortable with physical tasks. This is a role that better suits people who prefer staying active and working in the field rather than sitting behind a desk. People that can work well in a team but also manage tasks independently when needed. Basic English language skills are necessary for interview stage and everyday communication. No previous experience is required - what matters most is the motivation, willingness to learn and to adapt to a new environment.Deadline: 24/06/2026 23:59