For our 'fixed' volunteer positions, we do make sure that the experience and education of our volunteers fit the demands of the role they have applied for. As a rule, the level of your experience will reflect the calibre of your position.

However, there are some practical requirements that are quite essential:

1. You should understand that Africa is a challenging place to be. It is not always easy to communicate with the locals and there will not always be other volunteers positioned near you; in these circumstances you might be the only non-Ugandan around. This can prove to be a major advantage, but can also be difficult to readjust to. Not everybody is fit to go to Africa. You need to keep in mind that Uganda can be both physically and mentally very challenging. Counterpart Travels does not 'screen' volunteers. We assume that you already wanted to go to Uganda to volunteer, and we just function to make sure you get the most out of your time. We are always available in Uganda for practical support and we will keep in close touch to see how you're doing, but the overall challenge is your own responsibility.

2. You must arrange proper health insurance for yourself which also covers the work that you will be doing. Please understand that Counterpart Travels does not insure any unexpected costs, medical or otherwise, for you. We can, however, recommend you some reliable insurance companies. For Dutch residents, we highly recommend Globetrotter. BUPA is a major international insurance company and should cover all necessary costs for European travellers. In case of serious injury, evacuation to the nearest major hospital, either in Nairobi or Capetown, is something that you probably want covered in your insurance. We do not have the means to take responsibility for your safety in Uganda.

3. The fee that you pay us (see costs) is primarily to cover our running costs. We cannot offer a refund if your stay in Uganda is not what you expected it to be, or if problems arise out of our control. However, if there are any mistakes made on our side, of course we will refund you the money.

4. Please also understand that if you go to Uganda without contacting Counterpart Travels, or any other organisation, it is still possible to find voluntary work of some description when you arrive. Our function is to find you a high-quality placement before you go, to provide you with information prior to your departure, to ensure that your placement matches with your skills and experience, and to make sure that you have a safe and reliable base while you are in Uganda.