Thank you for taking the time to read my story

I am a Psychology graduate currently nearing the end of my Psychology MSc. I am keen to gain as much hands on experience in the Psychology sector as possible before I enter the world of work and as one of my greatest passions is travelling to new places and immersing myself in new cultures, I have jumped at the opportunity to combine the two.

Mental health issues have played a huge part of mine and my family’s lives, and although we as a society are a long way from dealing with these issues in the most perfect way; thanks to the people around us, and the help of understanding professionals, many of us can learn to live with our demons and help keep them at bay. Unfortunately, not all countries have the same knowledge or means to deal with mental health problems, and Sri Lanka unfortunately is one of those lacking. The approach used in Sri Lanka focuses mainly on pharmacological aspects; however it has been found that the most successful approach is one combining pharmacological aspects and psychological support from professionals. This is what SLV.Global aim to help provide.

I have been lucky enough to have been offered an eight week voluntary placement with SLV in Sri Lanka working in the Mental Health Sector. The placement will include working with vulnerable individuals and using the skills I have gained throughout my past experience to help promote positive mental health and enrich the lives of those living in the Sri Lankan community.

This is a unique opportunity for me, giving me hands-on work experience, where I will be volunteering 5 days a week. The placements will be on psychiatric wards, working with individuals with learning difficulties and at under-resources residential centres.

For this placement, I am required to pay £1,700. This will cover the cost of my training, fund the Sri Lankan families who will welcome volunteers into their home, providing a place for us to stay, and will fund SLV.Global to give us the opportunity to take part in the projects. This is where I would appreciate all of the help I can get, the placement fees are a large sum, and although I expect to fund much of it myself, any help will be massively appreciated!

If you are interested in more details about what I will be doing, or what the company offer, please feel free to ask me or visit https://slv.global/

Thank you again,

Sophie