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The government is set to hand out huge subsidies to 7,000 students and young people who want to take time out with a gap year within the next three years.

The overseas volunteer gap years include work in water conservation, teaching and improving awareness about HIV. Charities involved in the placements include the British Red Cross and Islamic Relief.

Due to start this summer and run from three months to a year, the scheme will provide funds for flights, accommodation and food – and will also cover insurance, injections and visa costs.

People aged between 18 and 25 can be considered for the gap year funding and the government is also looking for people aged over 23 to become team leaders for the projects.

Some students and young people will have to find £800 towards the trip, but it is thought that places will be offered based on the effort put in by applicants.

With the number of young people taking a gap year dwindling, the government wants to encourage more students to take time out of their education in order to volunteer on worthy projects abroad.

Secretary of State for International Development, Andrew Mitchell, said the placements would make it possible for young people who may not otherwise be able to afford a £4,000 gap year to volunteer for the 7,000 subsidised places on offer.

Of the students and young people who will take advantage of the scheme, Mr Mitchell said: “They will gain new perspectives, greater confidence and make a real difference.”

The NUS welcomed the scheme, saying it was good that the government understood the need to create such opportunities for young people at the moment.

If you’re off on a gap year and would like a job to help you pay your way, then why not check out our current listing of gap year jobs and temporary work today?