In common with many others, I probably get my fair share of young people who want to ‘do good’ overseas in their gap year, and need the money.

Different considerations apply to members of one’s family, or the young of good friends. Usually, however, I have never heard of those who approach me for funds.

I have to consider whether the proposition represents ‘good value’ for the money. I have little doubt that the experience of working in one or more overseas countries  – where life is very different from in the UK – can be of great benefit to those prepared to get up and go and work. Secondly, there is the very real practical help for those on the ground who receive the aid in one way or another.

I cannot help feeling that the advancement of the young person (with whom I am unconnected) is no more of my business than helping them to pay their way at university; or helping to provide them with a good holiday.

That leaves those on the ground who are helped in a very practical way – very much the type of charitable work which I want to foster. Here, the practical problem is simply the cost. I believe there is much better ‘value for money’ to be gained by giving to a well-established charity which works overseas with individuals and communities.

For somebody going abroad to work (with the best possible motives), there are air fares and the administration and support costs which, I believe, outweigh the fact that the work is volntary.

My preference, therefore, is to give to overseas aid charities which help individuals – whether it concerns education, agriculture, medical and health issues, or whatever, in preference to helping people from this country individually do voluntary work overseas. That should not be taken as a criticism of the voluntary work: I admire the grit and dedication.  I just feel that my cash, probably, can do more good on the ground in other ways. I am, however, ready to be shown that I am wrong.

ash, probably, can do more good on the ground in other ways.   I am, however, ready to be shown thm at I awrong.

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