Stop orphanage volunteering

The LSE Volunteer Centre does not support volunteering in orphanages abroad, whether undertaken by organised groups or individuals for short or longer periods of time.

Created in partnership with Lumos, as part of their #HelpingNotHelping campaign we have taken the following pledge:

We believe in the power of volunteerism. We support and encourage student learning experiences and overseas volunteering opportunities that strive for the highest standards of child protection and best practice for ethical engagement. 

In recognition of the harm caused by institutional care for children (such as so-called ‘orphanages’), and the growing evidence of children being trafficked to and from such institutions, we commit to the following:

  • Ensure that we do not promote or engage in volunteering and/or visits to institutions for children.
  • If relevant, we commit to carefully plan and redirect existing support to institutions into alternatives that support families and communities.

If you’re a student and passionate about this cause please encourage your university to sign the pledge.

If you’re a higher or further education institute please sign the pledge.