Our work in Africa

What are we doing?

Working with the KwaZulu Natal (KZN) Department of Health to implement national strategies for combating the HIV epidemic, we are sending teams of specialist doctors, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists and psychologists to South Africa to share practical skills with local health workers.

How are we doing it?

All volunteers commit a minimum of one week every six months to KZN which they spend seeing real patients in real time with local colleagues. We do not provide direct patient care to South African children but, by teaching in the clinical setting, we can ensure volunteers’ input is appropriate to local needs.

We run a number of different programmes which offer support in a range of techniques. These have been devised based on local feedback and requests.

Please click here to find out more.

What can you do to help?

If you are a qualified healthcare professional with experience in paediatric HIV care, you could help by joining one of our teams. Please see the relevant professional group for more information.

What can you expect as a volunteer?

1. Access to staff who are available to answer any questions.
2. All flights, transfers and accommodation provided and arranged.
3. To be placed in a multidisciplinary team, allowing ideas and knowledge to be shared and holistic patient care provided.
4. A site appropriate to local opportunities and your individual experiences and skills.
5. Email contact with your fellow team members, at least one of whom would have visited KZN previously.
6. The support of your professional coordinator who will discuss available resources and teaching materials, all of which are in accordance with local guidelines and policies.
7. A timetable outlining the type of sessions local staff have requested so that you can prepare in advance.
8. To be met on arrival in Durban, and briefed by the Programme Coordinator who is based in Durban full time.
9. A KZN pack on arrival with further information on the province and the particular site and area you are visiting.
10. Appropriate transportation within KZN, maps, important phone numbers and a mobile phone.
11. Access to the Durban-based coordinator for the duration of your stay in KZN.
12. A de-brief with the Durban-based coordinator before being taken to the airport at the end of your trip.