Mathieu Janssen

VSO UK

VSO is the world's leading independent, international development charity that works through volunteers to fight poverty in developing countries. VSO works in the most disadvantaged countries where we can make a significant contribution and where it is safe for us to have programmes. In each country, our staff work with local partner organisations to develop a country strategic plan (CSP) that guides our work. This plan focuses on several of VSO's development goal areas. In addition to our work in developing countries, VSO also works to build global understanding of the issues around poverty and disadvantage. Advocacy and development awareness activities by staff, returned volunteers and supporters are part of our ongoing work. VSO's work revolves around six development goals, linked to the priorities of our partner agencies overseas, international development targets and our distinctive areas of expertise – for example, in education or working with grassroots groups. Each of our country programmes selects two or three goal areas to focus on.