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Work experience for young people

"My experience has encouraged me to keep involved with the Red Cross in future.”

Thomas, volunteer

Several young people sit at a desk on a day when young people replaced senior managers
Would you like to gain skills and experience that will prepare you for the working world? We can offer one- to two-week placements in our central London office for young people. During your placement you will gain an insight into how the British Red Cross works and help carry out general administrative tasks.

How would I be helping people?


Much of the work done by our volunteers and staff is supported by the invaluable input of office-based volunteers. During your work experience placement, you should be able to:

  • gain experience in carrying out a range of administrative tasks
  • learn about a specific department as well as the Red Cross’ work in the UK and worldwide
  • be able to contribute to your department’s field of work and attend meetings as appropriate.

Who can apply?


You need to be between 15 and 25 years old and able to work from 10-5 Monday through Friday for one or two weeks. You need to be comfortable working with people from diverse backgrounds.

We will give you an induction, a supervisor, and provide support throughout the placement.

How do I apply?

For work placement opportunities outside London, please contact our branch office near you or call 0845 054 7111 from a landline and you will automatically be connected to your local office.

For a work experience placement at our office in central London, contact Samantha Robertson at srobertson@redcross.org.uk, a minimum of two and a maximum of four months before you want your placement to start. Make sure to include your date of birth, as well as details about when, how long, and in which department(s) you would like to work. If possible, please attach a CV so we can learn a little more about you and find the most suitable placement.

For work placement opportunities outside London, contact one of our branch offices in your area.

True story: From first aid to European politics in two weeks

Thomas is a first year history student who did a work experience placement at the Red Cross. He remembers: “I found myself fully involved in the schools and community education team working with Nidhi, my supervisor, on a one-week seminar for their international youth volunteers. 

“Once I’d helped Nidhi in the preparations for the seminar, I had a chance to attend so many varied briefings and sessions. From refreshing my first aid skills to a seminar on international humanitarian law – before undertaking my placement I did not even know the Red Cross was doing so many different things!

“During the seminar Nidhi gave me the opportunity to hold a session myself. After conducting the workshop on European politics and identity, I really felt I had accomplished something. Four intense, but very rewarding days later, I was really sad the week had passed by so quickly.

“Everyone was really approachable and always helpful. My experience has encouraged me to keep involved with the Red Cross in future.”

Find out why you should volunteer with us

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© British Red Cross 2010
British Red Cross, UK Office, 44 Moorfields, London EC2Y 9AL Phone: 0844 871 11 11. Fax: 020 7562 2000.

The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949) and Scotland (SC037738).